As the October air sends chills down our spines, so does the arrival of Halloween as it creeps closer towards us. Thoughts of carved-out pumpkins, black cats, scrumptious candies, festivals and unique costumes spring to mind, reminding us of past trick-or-treating adventures. So re-awaken the child within you and celebrate Halloween in style with several events around the world.
On October 31st, upon the setting of the sun and the illumination of the lights, the streets of Manhattan are transformed into a murky and hair-raising place. Ghouls, zombies, and fairytale princesses sway to the music of various popular musicians as they walk hand-in-hand through the city. Dancers and artists become unrecognizable in the midst of the public, with their extraordinary costume creations made especially for this one night. All this and more can be found at the most anticipated event of the season: New York’s Village Halloween Parade.
This year, the parade is celebrating its 35th year with the theme of ‘Ghost’. Thus, grab that old white bed sheet of yours and put it to good use with a pair of scissors and a flair of creativity. Join in on the fun by walking in the parade–who knows, you may just win the annual costume contest with your creation!
Though the parade is certainly the highlight of the night, there are many other events occurring in the
city of lights that are equally as fun. If you prefer old haunted houses, then Blood Manor Haunted House and Nightmare: Bad Dreams Come True are where you will have your greatest fears come to life. Just watch out, you never know who may be lurking behind the corner waiting to pounce on you…There are also numerous parties and club events that you can immerse yourself in without the necessity of wearing a costume, such as at the festivities that will be held at the refined Webster Hall.
New York City is not the only place that will be celebrating Halloween in style. If you happen to be near London on this mystifying evening, then an experience that simply cannot be missed is The London Bridge Experience. Live a piece of history and a healthy dose of terror as you are guided by the legends of time past through an interactive journey full of uncanny surprises along the way. Afterwards, you may want to continue on their adventure and visit the Tombs down below where horror awaits in the darkest of places. Just be warned that you may never come out quite the same as when you stepped in.
London also offers a themed amusement park known as The Dungeons at which you can take a boat ride to hell or get a hair cut from the infamous Sweeney Todd. Moreover, if you are travelling across England, you can stroll through ancient castles, such as the Dover Castle, and relive the haunted stories of its past residents.
Paris, the city of love, celebrates this holiday in a unique way with festivities at Disneyland. Enjoy Halloween with your favourite Disney characters and end the evening with a beautiful fireworks display.
If you have the chance to travel to Limoges, you may want to go to their annual Halloween festival. There you will experience a fabulous parade with beautiful costumes, live music, dancing, and the remarkable French cuisine. Finish off your day by partying in one of the many dance clubs that may be found in the heart of the city.
So whether you are partying on the deck of the haunted ship Queen Mary in Los Angeles or creeping on a ghost tour in Scotland, the Halloween idea remains the same–it’s all about scaring the life out of you whilst having plenty of fun.
Top image courtesy of 3drt.com
