Halloween in Romania

Date: October 31st

History and Background:

Though Halloween is not a traditional Romanian holiday, it has gained popularity due to global cultural influences and the country’s association with the Dracula myth. The historical figure Vlad the Impaler (Vlad Țepeș), who inspired Bram Stoker's fictional character Count Dracula, is often associated with the Transylvania region of Romania.

Traditions:

Romanian traditions for Halloween often intertwine with those adopted from Western countries. They include:

• Costume Parties: Children and adults dress up in costumes, often inspired by supernatural or scary themes.
• Trick-or-Treating: In urban areas, children may go trick-or-treating, although this is not as widespread as in the United States.
• Haunted Attractions: Visits to haunted houses or castles, especially Bran Castle (often marketed as Dracula's Castle), where themed events are organized.

Activities:

On Halloween, various activities take place across Romania:

• Parties and Events: Clubs and venues host special Halloween parties.
• Pumpkin Carving: Although not a traditional Romanian custom, carving jack-o'-lanterns has become more common.
• Themed Tours: Special tours focusing on the legend of Dracula are offered in Transylvania, attracting tourists seeking a spooky experience.

While Halloween has its place in modern Romania, it is generally considered less significant than traditional celebrations like St. Andrew’s Day (November 30th), which also carries superstitions about spirits and protection against evil.