How Halloween is Celebrated in Spain

Halloween is a holiday that, as in Spain, is celebrated almost everywhere in the world. This holiday popularized by the United States and where it is celebrated in a big way, has different ways of living it according to each country.

In Spain, Halloween has different celebrations depending on the region where you are. There are cities where there is a series of traditions that take place throughout that day and even the next day.

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In this article we show you how Halloween is celebrated in Spain within the regions that most enjoy this holiday, as well as their traditional foods:

Halloween in Catalonia – La Castanyada

In Catalonia, Halloween coincides with “La Castanyada,” a traditional festival marking the arrival of autumn.

La Castanyada dates back to All Saints’ Day and involves families gathering to pay respects to their deceased loved ones. The celebration includes eating roasted chestnuts, sweet potatoes, and panellets (small almond pastries). Locals often wear traditional clothing and participate in community events, blending reverence for the past with a festive spirit.

Halloween in Galicia – Samaín & Night of the Pumpkins

Galicia’s Halloween, known as Samaín, is steeped in Celtic heritage. This ancient celebration is believed to be a precursor to modern Halloween, with roots going back over 2,000 years. Galicians honor their ancestors and celebrate the end of the harvest season. The festivities include lighting bonfires and carving pumpkins, similar to the Jack-o’-lantern tradition in the United States. Visitors can join parades and enjoy traditional Galician music, making it a culturally rich experience.

Noite dos Calacús (Night of the Pumpkins) is another popular event, where children and adults dress up in costumes and go door-to-door asking for treats. This tradition echoes the American practice of trick-or-treating but with a unique Galician twist.

Halloween in Madrid

In Madrid, Halloween has become a vibrant celebration that seamlessly blends traditional customs with contemporary festivities.

While Madrid may not have deep-rooted Halloween traditions like some other regions of Spain, but it comes alive with an array of events, from ghost tours to theatrical haunted house experiences. At night, the city’s bustling nightlife embraces Halloween with clubs and bars hosting elaborate themed parties and costume contests.

Halloween in Andalusia – Malaga

Malaga’s port area, Muelle Uno, becomes a vibrant Halloween hub, attracting locals and tourists to its waterfront attractions. Families and friends gather to enjoy the spooky decorations and themed activities designed for all ages.

The promenade transforms into a lively stage for Halloween parties, with live music, street performers, and elaborate costumes. Shops and eateries along “Muelle Uno” join in the spirit by offering special Halloween treats and themed menu items.

Spanish Trick-or-Treating Traditions

While the American tradition of trick-or-treating isn’t widespread, Spanish children have adopted their version, known as “Truco o Trato”.

Children dress up in costumes and visit neighbors’ houses, as in the United States, but with a dash of Spanish flair. In some areas, they might sing a song or perform a short skit in exchange for candy, adding an interactive element to the tradition.

Traditional Halloween Food in Spain

While Halloween in Spain might be more modern in its celebrations, certain foods have found their place in the festivity. One popular treat is ‘Huesos de Santo’, meaning ‘saints’ bones,’ which are marzipan pastries filled with sweetened egg yolk. These confections, often enjoyed around All Saints’ Day, have become intertwined with Halloween celebrations.

Additionally, ‘Buñuelos de Viento’ or ‘wind fritters’ are a favorite—light, airy pastries dusted with sugar, available plain or filled with creamy custards. In Catalunya, ‘Panellets’, a sweet confection made from almonds, sugar, and pine nuts, are traditionally prepared.