Halloween in Spain – October 31
Although not a traditional Spanish feast, Halloween has surged in popularity across Spain in recent years. On October 31st, children and adults alike don costumes, attend themed parties and enjoy trick-or-treating in urban neighbourhoods.
Modern Adoption & Growing Traditions
Imported from North America, Halloween has been embraced especially in larger cities—Madrid’s Malasaña and Barcelona’s El Born districts host street festivals featuring live music, costume contests and pop-up haunted houses.
Popular Activities
- Costume Parties: Bars and clubs organize themed nights with DJs and décor ranging from gothic to playful.
- Trick-or-Treat: Residential areas in suburban Madrid and Valencia register with community maps to welcome costumed children for candy.
- Pumpkin Carving: Cafés and craft stores sell carving kits and hold workshops for families to create jack-o’-lanterns.
- Horror Cinema: Cinemas screen classic horror films and local indie thrillers throughout late October.
Tips for Celebrating
- Check Local Listings: Many events require pre-registration—consult municipal cultural calendars for details.
- Stay Safe: Choose well-lit streets for trick-or-treating and accompany young children.
- Dress for Comfort: Autumn evenings can be chilly—layer costumes over warm clothing.
- Combine with Día de los Muertos: In some regions, you’ll find complementary Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos) altars and events on November 1st and 2nd.
From spooky street parades to cozy home gatherings, Halloween in Spain offers a fun, contemporary twist on autumn festivities—perfect for those seeking a playful night of scares and sweets.