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Halloween Spirit
Eat, drink, and be scary.
October is one of our favorite months because the world comes alive with various Halloween and fall-centric traditions. It’s a perfect time to experience local culture, from Mexico to Germany. Here are five destinations that capture the Halloween spirit and show travelers why October is one of the most spirited months of the year.
1. Salem, Massachusetts
Salem is one of the spookiest cities in the United States, famous for its 1692 witch trials. So, it should come as no surprise that the Massachusetts town is most popular in October — particularly around Halloween. Visit historical sites like the Salem Witch House, the former home of a judge in the witch trials, and the Salem Witch Museum, highlighting the way witches have been viewed throughout history. For a more hair-raising experience, join a Candlelit Ghostly Walking Tour, where visitors can see haunted buildings guided only by the light of tiny lanterns. Finally, plan your visit around the Salem Witches' Halloween Ball on October 30. With psychic readings, ceremonial dances, and costume contests, there is no better place to celebrate the holiday.
2. Oaxaca, Mexico
Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is a famous Mexican celebration of deceased ancestors that occurs on the first two days of November every year. There are many wonderful places in Mexico to observe the holiday, but we’re partial to Oaxaca. The city has celebrated Día de los Muertos for centuries and is a more manageable alternative to bustling Mexico City. During the holiday, Oaxaca is filled with street dancers, marigold-adorned cemeteries, and locals who will paint your face as a skull. Be sure to stick around for a few days after the celebrations end — the colonial architecture, mezcal bars, and street tacos of Oaxaca are worth experiencing any time of year.
3. Dixon, California
Located about 20 miles from Sacramento, the tiny town of Dixon has one major claim to fame: It’s where you can find Cool Patch Pumpkins, home to the largest corn maze in the world. Owners Matt and Mark Cooley began building the maze in 2003, and it has since evolved into a 63-acre attraction recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records. The farm also offers hayrides, pumpkin patches, and food stalls during the fall, but most people come for the record-breaking maze. Don’t forget your flare gun.
4. Albuquerque, New Mexico
For nine days in October, the skies of Albuquerque become enchanted displays of color during the annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. There are few better places to enjoy crisp autumn air than the Rio Grande Valley, which serves as the launching point for the 588 balloons on the roster this year. With the addition of live concerts and fireworks, this becomes one of the most exciting fall events in the country.
5. Leavenworth, Washington
Our favorite non-Halloween October holiday is none other than Oktoberfest. The celebration may be canceled in Munich this year, but you can find one of the best brew-centered gatherings outside of Germany in Leavenworth, Washington. The city was modeled after a Bavarian village, complete with Alpine-style buildings and sprawling food halls, so you’ll hardly even remember you’re not in Munich — especially after a few beers. This year, the celebration will resemble a large street fair, with 100 local crafters, artists, and food vendors setting up shop during the first three weekends in October.
This month's articles:
European Cities in Fall
