Caleigh Montoya, Staff Writer
Have you ever wondered how other countries celebrate Halloween? Below, I will tell you how Brazil, South Korea, Haiti, England, and Russia celebrate this holiday.
Brazil
In Brazil, they call October 31st, “Dia de Bruxas” which translates to “The Witch’s Day”. This is celebrated on the same day we celebrate Halloween in America. People still participate in dressing up but do not carve pumpkins or trick or treat. The most popular costumes include zombie carnival people and rastas! Halloween continues to grow in popularity in Brazil as it is a holiday with much fascination.
Haiti
For Haiti, Halloween is often not celebrated as it conflicts with religious beliefs and other holidays around this time. Haiti has a tradition where they honor their family members who have left the natural world on November 1st. This tradition is slightly similar to the Day of the Dead, also known as Dia de Muertos, celebrated in Mexico. November 2nd is when Haitians remember the Catholic saints. Some may engage in Americanized parades, almost imitating Halloween, but otherwise, their celebrations are unique on their own.
South Korea
South Korea uses the Western holiday as an excuse to dress up and go out. Trick or treating and carving pumpkins is not a tradition that they take part in, but they do dress up and go to costume parties. Most costumes are inspired by pop culture idols, such as KPOP stars, actors, and even some foreign celebrities.
Russia
Russia is not very fond of Halloween and views it as a holiday that goes against Christianity. However, in recent years, clubs have taken advantage of the curiosity of Halloween and have held costume parties to celebrate the holiday.
England
England does celebrate Halloween but it is not necessarily one that everyone participates in. People in England don’t go “all out” like we do in America. They aren’t too fond of the big Halloween blow-ups or haunted houses. However, they do participate in pumpkin carving and their costumes are mostly scary. That's the whole point of the spooky season, right?
Halloween is a pretty big deal here in America, but some countries do not even participate in the festivities! Some may have different traditions and holidays surrounding the day and others may just take bits and pieces from our traditions. Either way, Halloween continues to be a holiday viewed with a lot of curiosity and is interpreted in many different ways.