Spooky Season Inspired Travel

While some people can’t wait to put up the Christmas tree the moment the school Autumn term begins (I’m looking at you, Brown Thomas Christmas Shop!), I’ve always had a soft spot for Halloween. It’s my favourite holiday of the year, and I’m firmly in the camp of savouring every bit of spooky season before even thinking about festive sparkle. With Halloween’s roots deeply woven into Irish culture and tradition, it’s no surprise the celebrations seem to grow bigger and bolder each year. So, if you’re like me and love all things spooky, here are some fantastic Halloween-inspired trips to awaken your inner ghoul. Salem, Massachusetts, USA October is the best time to visit Salem, with the town fully embracing its spooky reputation during the Haunted Happenings Festival. Four to five days is plenty to take in the highlights, such as the Salem Witch Museum, the Witch Trials Memorial, and The House of the Seven Gables. The whole town becomes a stage for ghost tours, costume parades, and haunted houses. Salem has a strong adult appeal given the witch trial history and evening events, but there are some daytime activities that suit families. You can also add a day trip to nearby Boston, which offers a blend of history, shopping, and dining.

Mexico - Day of the Dead Late October into early November is when Mexico bursts into colour and tradition with the Día de los Muertos celebrations. A week to ten days allows you to experience several regions. Mexico City is alive with parades and decorated altars, while Oaxaca showcases candlelit cemeteries, sand art, and traditional music. Pátzcuaro in Michoacán is especially magical, with Janitzio Island glowing at night from thousands of candles during family vigils. This is a deeply cultural and family-focused event, making it enjoyable for adults and children alike, though some late-night gatherings in cemeteries may be best for adults.

Transylvania, Romania For a classic Gothic Halloween, Transylvania in late October is a must. Five to six days is ideal to explore Bran Castle, often linked to Dracula, and Sighișoara, the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler. The medieval city of Brasov also makes for a wonderful base with cobbled streets and historic fortresses. Around Halloween, some castles and venues host themed parties, perfect for travellers seeking a dramatic and eerie atmosphere. While some castle visits are family-friendly, the overall focus on Dracula’s legend and spooky experiences makes this trip more suited to adults.

New Orleans, Louisiana, USA New Orleans has a natural air of mystery and charm that makes it an excellent Halloween destination in October. A five-day trip gives enough time to explore ghost and voodoo tours in the French Quarter, stroll through the Garden District, and visit the famous St. Louis Cemetery. Halloween brings lively parades, masquerade balls, and themed parties throughout the city. A day trip into the surrounding swamps adds another layer of adventure. The celebrations and tours tend to appeal more to adults, though families can enjoy the parades and lighter daytime events.

New York City, USA If you’re looking for a big, vibrant Halloween parade, New York City is an unbeatable choice. The Village Halloween Parade in Greenwich Village, held every 31 October, is the largest Halloween parade in the United States, with thousands of costumed participants, giant puppets, and live music. Spending four to five days in the city allows time to enjoy the parade, join themed events across Manhattan, and also take in other attractions such as Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, and Broadway. The parade itself is fun for both adults and children, though the evening atmosphere in some parts of the city leans more towards adults.

Key West, Florida, USA Key West takes Halloween to another level with its famous Fantasy Fest, usually held in the last week of October. This ten-day festival features elaborate costumes, themed parties, street parades, and plenty of live music. It has a carnival feel, with a playful, free-spirited atmosphere that is best suited to adults. A four to six-day trip is ideal to enjoy the main events and also relax on the island’s beaches. Key West offers a very different take on Halloween compared to Salem or New York, blending tropical vibes with over-the-top spooky celebrations.

Whether it’s wandering through candlelit cemeteries in Mexico, dressing up for New York’s parade, or exploring Dracula’s castle in Romania, these destinations bring this unique time of year to life in unforgettable ways. As a Halloween aficionado myself, I’d love to help you plan one of these spooky adventures and make it truly special. Do get in touch if you’d like me to create a perfectly spooky trip for you.