Halloween is now widely celebrated in Spain, but the true traditional holiday remains All Saints’ Day on November 1st, a time for remembrance and reflection.
Candles for All Saints Day in Spain
Halloween has become a big event celebrated in many countries around the world on October 31st. It originates from the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain and, for Christians, the observance of All Hallows’ Eve. Halloween today includes many family-orientated activities such as dressing up in costumes, trick-or-treating, and parties. Originally, it involved bonfires and disguises to ward off spirits. At its heart, the holiday was about remembering the dead and marking the beginning of winter.
Although Halloween has become more visible in Spain in recent years, the way it is celebrated is mainly imported from the American version of the holiday. Costumes, pumpkins, and parties are now common in many towns, especially in areas with large international communities.
However, the true traditional practice here is the observance of All Saints’ Day (Día de Todos los Santos) on the first of November. It is a national public holiday dedicated to remembering loved ones who are no longer with us. Families visit cemeteries to bring flowers, light candles, and spend quiet moments together in reflection.
Many regions of Spain also have their own customs. In Catalonia, for example, La Castañada marks the season with roasted chestnuts and sweet pastries, while in other areas people enjoy Huesos de Santo, marzipan treats shaped like bones.
These two celebrations, Halloween and All Saints’ Day, one modern and one traditional, show how Spain manages to combine old customs with newer influences from abroad. It is a reflection of how life here continues to evolve while staying firmly rooted in its heritage.
If you are thinking of a move to Spain, or already live here and enjoy exploring local traditions, we are always happy to share our insight into life on the Costa del Sol. Feel free to get in touch or contact us directly by phone, WhatsApp, or email.
Michael Moon Spanish Property
Marbella and Costa del Sol Real Estate
