Some Scary But Fun Places To Celebrate Halloween In The World

The fall foliage is out in its gold, crimson and orange splendor, meaning we’re also getting close to Halloween, one of the most popular and scary times of the year. If you are tired of the same old Halloween costumes and decorations in your hometown, head to one of these locations where it is fun to be scared this year.

Some of the top scariest places to celebrate Halloween

Halloween has its roots in Christian beliefs and practices and the word itself comes from “All Hallows’ Eve,” the evening before the Christian holy days of All Hallows’ Day (All Saints’ Day) on November 1, and All Souls’ Day on November 2. These days, the event is a fun way to dress up and decorate, and of course, for the kids to go trick or treating, knocking on doors and hoping for a generous haul of candy. The following cities are a great choice for celebrating the holiday in style.

Salem, Massachusetts, USA

Nestling on the north coast of Massachusetts, Salem is famous for its 1692 witch trials. During that time, several locals were executed for allegedly practicing witchcraft. If hearing its history isn’t enough, travelers can head to the Witch House, the former home of a trial judge. On a less scary note, the Peabody Essex Museum is a worthy visit any time of year, with its huge collection of global art and artifacts, including a rebuilt Qing-era Chinese house. As you can see, the costumes are pretty authentic – you can see more Salem Halloween photos here.

New Orleans, Louisiana, USA

New Orleans is located on the Mississippi River, close to the Gulf of Mexico. Bearing the nickname the “Big Easy,” the city is known for its vibrant life music scene and round-the-clock nightlife. Meanwhile, New Orleans’ spicy, blended cuisine is inspired by a mix of African, French and American cultures. Meanwhile, the Big Easy is also renowned for its Mardi Gras, a carnival known for its raucous costumed street parties and parades.

Sleepy Hollow, New York State, USA

Just the name Sleepy Hollow conjures visions of your favorite horror movies, but it is also the setting for Washington Irving’s The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. Irving is buried in the cemetery in the village. Meanwhile, October is a month full of events, including tours, musical performances and Halloween parades. Close by, nature lovers can explore the Rockefeller State Park Preserve, with its network of carriage roads taking hikers through fields, woodlands and streams.

Prague, The Czech Republic

Heading to Europe, Prague is one of the continent’s top locations for Gothic architecture. Meanwhile, the architecture adds a mysterious and macabre charm to the city, with its medieval architecture and narrow and winding streets. Here, travelers can find many ways to celebrate Halloween, although it isn’t traditionally celebrated in Prague. The city boasts haunted cemeteries, spooky local legends, creative costumes and a fascinating museum dedicated to the scarier aspects of Halloween.

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Amsterdam is a popular destination for travelers, with its beautiful architecture and canals running through the city. Its museums and art galleries are a must-visit at any time of year. However, the city also offers a variety of Halloween events for families or adults. Meanwhile, its restaurants, cafes and clubs host creative costume parties. Moreover, travelers can enjoy ghost tours of Amsterdam, and attend the legendary Monster Ball, or the Amsterdam Halloween Festival. This year you can also partake in Amsterdam’s Nuclear Survival on Saturday, October 26.

Have fun on Halloween in 2024! Head to one of these recommended cities, to explore their take on the holiday and more.