Halloween for students in the UK tends to involve some form of fancy dress, a lot of alcohol and an insane Halloween party. But around the world this creepy tradition isn’t always celebrated in that way, so we give you the low down on some Halloween traditions from around the world.

Mexico
Día de los Muertos, or more commonly referred to as the Day of the Dead, is a three-day celebration held to commemorate their departed loved ones and ancestors. The celebrations begin on the 31st October and the festivities often feature sweets and breads designed into the shape of skulls and skeletons. Families will also construct alters in their homes, light candles and incense, and will tidy grave sites of their deceased relatives.

Sweden
Halloween in Sweden isn’t traditionally a holiday that those living in Sweden participate in. Most celebrations are very similar to that in the UK, with people throwing fancy dress parties and children go trick-or-treating. However, the day after Halloween marks All Saint’s Day, which is celebrated in Sweden with a day off from work and studies. Swedes will visit their loves ones graves or will attend church to mark the celebration.

China
Although Halloween is not a celebrated event in China, there are a number of other festivities that coincide with Halloween. One such festival is Teng Chieh, where food and water are placed in front of photographs of deceased family members. Lanterns and bonfires are also lit on Halloween light in celebration of this festival. The Feast of the Hungry Ghost and the Festival of the Hungry Ghost are also celebrated around this time. All these festivals are aimed at remembering and commemorating the spirits of family members who have passed on to the next world.

Scotland and Ireland
A little closer to home you can find unusual Halloween traditions too. The Gaelic festival of Samhain is celebrated from sunset on the 31st October and marks the end of the harvest months, as well as the beginning of winter. Ancestors are honoured during this time and festivals are also put on to celebrate.

And there you have it, just a little look into Halloween traditions around the world. If you’ve celebrated Halloween in another country please do let us know what the festivities were like.

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