What do people do in Europe for Halloween?

From seasonal treats in Spain to candlelit cemeteries in Sweden, late October and early November bring together celebrations, family traditions and moments of remembrance.

Halloween falls on Saturday 31 October in 2026. If you’re heading away for an autumn break, here’s a look at what you might find in five European countries.

Where did Halloween begin?

Halloween has roots in the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, which marked the transition from summer to winter. Over time, these seasonal customs became intertwined with Christian traditions.

Today’s costumes, pumpkin carving and trick-or-treating are part of a celebration that has continued to evolve as it has travelled around the world.

Spain: seasonal sweets and family traditions

In Spain, the days around Halloween also hold an important place in the calendar for remembering loved ones. Día de Todos los Santos, or All Saints’ Day, takes place on 1 November, when many families visit cemeteries and leave flowers on relatives’ graves.

Regional traditions give visitors something different to discover. In Catalonia, La Castanyada brings roasted chestnuts, sweet potatoes and panellets (small almond-based sweets) to the autumn table.

If you’re visiting Barcelona, look out for stalls selling warm chestnuts and bakeries displaying these seasonal treats. It’s an opportunity to experience a local tradition alongside the Halloween decorations.

Poland: Candles and remembrance

In Poland, All Saints’ Day on 1 November is an important occasion for remembering family and friends who have died.

Families visit cemeteries, tend graves, leave flowers and light candles known as znicze. As darkness falls, the candlelight creates a striking scene across the rows of graves. These customs are observed by people with different religious beliefs, as well as those who are not religious.

In 2026, All Saints’ Day falls on Sunday 1 November. If you’re visiting a cemetery, remember that this is a personal occasion for many families and be considerate when taking photographs.

Germany: pumpkins, parties and “Süßes oder Saures”

Halloween has become increasingly popular in Germany since the 1990s, with costumes, spooky decorations and themed parties now part of the autumn calendar.

Some children go trick-or-treating, calling out “Süßes oder Saures” – the German equivalent of “trick or treat”. However, participation varies between neighborhoods, so don’t expect every doorstep to have a bowl of sweets waiting.

Pumpkins also feature in decorations and seasonal dishes, including warming pumpkin soup. Whether you prefer dressing up or enjoying autumn food, there are different ways to join in.

France: Halloween attractions and La Toussaint

Halloween in France can include costume parties, spooky decorations and seasonal attractions, although celebrations vary between places and households.

Alongside the Halloween festivities, 1 November marks La Toussaint, or All Saints’ Day, a French public holiday. In 2026, it falls on a Sunday. Check opening hours for shops and attractions when planning your visit.

Sweden: Halloween and a candlelit weekend

In Sweden, Halloween celebrations include costumes, pumpkin carving and trick-or-treating. Alongside these festivities, Alla helgons dag, or All Saints’ Day, offers a quieter time for reflection.

The Swedish public holiday falls on the Saturday between 31 October and 6 November. In 2026, All Saints’ Day and Halloween share the same date: Saturday 31 October.

People visit cemeteries and memorial gardens to light candles and leave flowers in memory of loved ones.

Planning a Halloween break in Europe?

A little preparation can help you make the most of an autumn getaway:

Check event details: Confirm dates, tickets and age restrictions directly with the organiser.

Look up opening hours: Public holidays may affect shops, attractions and local services.

Pack for autumn weather: Bring layers and comfortable footwear, particularly for outdoor evening events.

Respect local customs: Remembrance traditions can be deeply personal, even where they take place alongside Halloween celebrations.

Travel Insurance for your autumn getaway

Whether you’re heading to Barcelona for seasonal treats or planning a family break in France, include Travel Insurance in your holiday preparations.

At Just Travel Cover, we compare policies from a panel of insurers to help you find cover for your age, health and travel plans, including options for people with pre-existing medical conditions.

Depending on the policy, cover can include emergency medical expenses, cancellation for insured reasons and lost or stolen baggage. Benefits, limits, excesses and exclusions vary, so check the policy details before buying.