It’s the time of the year when trips to pumpkin patches, and haunted houses, and scary movie marathons get penciled into the agenda. Some people never outgrow Halloween, and by some people I mean particularly me. And while I may no longer be dressing up in costume, and going door-to-door collecting candy from strangers, that doesn’t mean the celebration needs to end.
Luckily, for all you other All Hallows Eve lovers out there, there’s a plethora of places to go if you’re looking to indulge in some good old-fashioned Halloween fun. So, without further ado, I present to you a guide for Halloween getaways. Jetsetter style, of course.
Salem, Massachusetts
A quaint town on the northern coast of Massachusetts, Salem best known for its 1692 witch trials where (if you paid attention in History class) several locals were executed for allegedly practicing witchcraft. The witchy vibe of the city still stands and travelers can have the chance to visit the Witch House (the former home of a trial judge), shop for potions in one of the many small shops, or go on an evening Witch Walk with a local guide.
Sleepy Hollow, New York
Made famous by novelist Washington Irving, this quiet New York town goes all out in the month of October. There’s a Haunted Hayride for those on the hunt for the Headless Horseman and lantern tours of the local town and cemetery (where Irving is buried) on select nights. While you’re there, pop on over to Croton-on-Hudson and check out the Great Jack O’ Lantern Blaze, where over 10,000 hand-carved jack o’ lanterns become brilliant art installations.
New Orleans, Louisiana
Anyone who’s ever been to NOLA knows that the city has no shortage of haunted stories. From haunted walks to Voodoo tours, it’s the perfect place to embark on an adventure. Furthermore, New Orleans boasts one of the biggest Halloween parade (called the Krewe of Boo) which typically features 3D Halloween floats made from fiberglass and paper mache.
Transylvania, Romania
Boasting the Bram Castle that is said to inspire Bram Stoker’s depiction of Count Dracula, Transylvania might be more of a trek, but totally worth it. Partake in a live show at the mythical castle or join one of the many Halloween-themed tours that include live Romanian and medieval folk music and Romanian cuisine.
Derry, Ireland
According to research, the origins of Halloween actually come from the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain – which marks the end of harvest season and brings forth the dark half of the year.In this Irish town, the Return of the Ancients Festival is a huge extravaganza that runs for nine whole days. From parades and ghost tours to haunted houses and a massive fireworks display, if there’s one thing we know (and love) about the Irish, it’s that they know how to throw a party.
If you’re searching for something different to do this Halloween, take a trip to one of these aforementioned places to take your celebrations to the next level. No costumes required.
