The Costa Blanca is undergoing a beautiful transition as the hot summer sun gradually gives way to the softer, more golden autumnal hues. Even though the crowded streets may become less crowded, there is a distinct energy in the air, particularly as October draws to a close. This time of year offers a delightful cultural crossover between the beloved customs of Spanish Autumn and the spooky fun of Halloween for many of us who live here.
Over the past ten years, Halloween has firmly established itself on our sunny shores, largely due to the vibrant international community. Originally a unique American and British tradition, it is now a lively tradition that adds even more excitement to the end of October. Shops will be crammed with ghostly decorations, and everyone will be searching for the perfect pumpkin.
Embracing the Spook: Expat Halloween Fun
How are foreigners celebrating, then? The friendly frights are undoubtedly in full force now! Trick-or-treating, or “Truco o Trato!” as we now call it, has grown to be a beloved tradition. Many urbanisations, international schools, and local businesses enthusiastically organise safe and enjoyable trick-or-treating routes for the kids, even though it might not be exactly the same as door-to-door shopping as back home. Seeing kids dressed as superheroes, witches, and everything else is endearing. collecting their treats with great anticipation.
Halloween celebrations are enjoyable for everyone, not just the children! Halloween is no exception to the Costa Blanca’s skill at throwing a great party. Popular expat towns like Benidorm, Javea, Moraira, and Torrevieja have bars and restaurants that come alive with eerie menus, costume competitions, and themed décor. It’s a great excuse to get dressed up, laugh, and take in the vibrant atmosphere with friends. Family-friendly activities like pumpkin carving classes may even start to appear, encouraging everyone to embrace the ghoulish vibe.
The Spanish Tradition: Dia de Todos los Santos
However, a new, more solemn, and no less lovely tradition takes shape as the last goblins and ghosts disappear on the evening of the 31st. Dia de Todos los Santos, a national holiday observed on November 1st, is a very important day for Spanish families. This is a day of silent remembrance and a deep bond with family, not a day for spooks or scares.
It’s a very touching thing to see. Families come together, frequently over long distances, to visit cemeteries and exquisitely decorate their loved ones’ graves with new flowers. The cemeteries are transformed into serene, colourful gardens of remembrance by the vivid colours. It’s a great tradition for foreigners to observe and comprehend as part of their cultural immersion in Spain, and it serves as a potent reminder of the value of family and heritage. Just keep in mind that many stores and services will be closed due to the national bank holiday, so make appropriate plans.
A Double Celebration
We have the exceptional opportunity to enjoy the best of both worlds when we live on the Costa Blanca. After having a good time celebrating Halloween with loved ones, we respectfully move on to the heartfelt and lovely customs of Dia de Todos los Santos.
Therefore, we hope you embrace all the wonderful ways autumn unfolds here, whether you’re carving a smiling jack-o’-lantern, taking part in a lively costume party, laying flowers at a local cenemtry, or just enjoying a bag of warm castanas. Life on the Costa Blanca is so rich and memorable because of this delightful blending of cultures.
Author: Melissa Williams
Hi, I’m Melissa, a creative writer and ESL teacher with a passion for storytelling. I started writing fiction when I was young, and I eventually discovered that I loved performing, working all over the Costa Blanca as a semi-professional singer. I now write articles that I hope will inspire and engage readers by using my creativity. Whether I'm sharing personal insights or delving into local culture, I try to produce content that is relatable and meaningful. working as a creator of events and features.
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