If you thought Halloween was a big event in Britain, you may be surprised to learn that it’s an even bigger celebration in Spain.
Halloween in Spain is a three-day celebration, which kicks off on October 31st with el Dia de las Brujas (Day of the Witches). The following day, November 1st, is the Dia de Todos los Santos (All Saints Day) and the celebrations are concluded with the Dia de los Muertos (the Day of the dead) on November 2nd.
Whilst Halloween in Spain certainly has a commercial side, it is much more about honouring loved ones who have passed on and celebrating the continuity of life.
On the Dia de Todos los Santos it is a custom for families to gather at the graves of deceased loved ones with flowers, holy water, food and drink, as a way of celebrating their life and spending time with one another.
Different regions of Spain celebrate Halloween with different customs and traditions. In Galicia, for example, in North-West Spain, October 31st is referred to as Noite los Calacus (Night of the Pumpkins). Similar to in the UK, pumpkins are carved and decorated to mark and celebrate Halloween.
Meanwhile, much further south in the city of Malaga, Halloween is marked with a large Zombie March through the streets. As well as zombies, participants of this frighteningly colourful procession are dressed as witches, goblins, vampires and other creatures we associate with Halloween.
Or, if you’re lucky enough to be heading to the exciting city of Cadiz this Halloween, no doubt you’ll catch the wonderful Fiesta de Tosantos. This vibrant event comprises of street performances, concerts, and market stalls doused in fruit, vegetables and other products decorated to resemble characters from recent political and other scandals – the mind boggles!
