Halloween season is just around the corner. Many of you must be eagerly looking forward to this fun festival where you can dress up and stroll through the streets.

In this blog post, we will provide an overview of Halloween and share how it is celebrated in Japan and various other countries around the world. Additionally, we will introduce some recommended Japanese sweets that you can enjoy during the Halloween festivities.

With delicious Japanese sweets in hand, make the most of this annual Halloween celebration and have fun!

Explore Halloween Festivals Around the World!

Halloween is on October 31st. Many of you may associate it with children in costumes, going around the neighborhood saying, “Trick or Treat” and receiving candy. You may also see pumpkin lanterns used as decorations.

Halloween has its origins in Ireland and was initially a festival celebrating the autumn harvest. It was also a day for driving away evil spirits. People dressed up to resemble evil spirits and witches to avoid being attacked by them. Lighting candles inside pumpkin lanterns was a way to welcome the souls of loved ones returning from the afterlife.

Many Halloween customs are said to have spread worldwide in the 19th century, starting when Irish immigrants moved to the States and later extending to other parts of the world. So, how do people in Ireland and other countries celebrate Halloween?

Ireland

Halloween in Irish means “the end of summer,” tracing its origins back to ancient Celtic festivals. During ancient Celtic times, as summer came to an end and the harvest season concluded, people gathered to celebrate.

In Ireland, there is a tradition of eating a cake known as “Barmbrack” on Halloween. Items like coins or rings are placed inside the cake, and individuals predict their luck or fate based on what they find inside.

Even today, families and neighbors gather to enjoy the Halloween festivities.

United States

Halloween is said to have arrived in the United States in the 1840s. Halloween, which was initially brought over by Celtic immigrants, has now become the second-largest event after Christmas.

When Halloween approaches, children carve out large pumpkins to make lanterns and go trick-or-treating in the neighborhood wearing costumes. Even in schools, teachers join in by dressing up and coming to school in costumes. So people in costumes are everywhere, and the streets come alive with Halloween festivities.

Mexico

In Mexico, the Halloween period from October 31st to November 2nd is known as “Day of the Dead,” a time when the souls of ancestors return to the earthly realm. During this time, the streets are adorned with colorful skeletons and filled with bright orange marigold flowers.

For Mexicans, Day of the Dead is not a time to mourn the loss of loved ones but rather a day to strengthen family bonds. It's about welcoming the departed with a cheerful spirit and enjoying quality time with family.

Do People Cosplay for Halloween in Japan?

Halloween in Japan is also enjoyed as a major event every year. Especially in Tokyo's Shibuya, various people wearing different costumes gather for Halloween.

In Japan, Halloween, which came from Europe, doesn't hold the original meanings of “celebrating the autumn harvest” or “warding off evil spirits” as it does in Europe. Combined with Japan's unique cosplay culture, it is rather an event primarily enjoyed by young people as a costume-wearing occasion.

Recommended Japanese Sweets to Enjoy on Halloween

On Halloween, children go around their neighborhood, shouting “Trick or treat!” and receiving candies. It’s better to have some delicious treats ready for the children so they don’t play tricks on you!

Below are some delicious Japanese sweets to enjoy on Halloween.

1.  TIROL Chocolate Variety Box

These bite-sized chocolates are a big hit with kids. You can enjoy a variety of flavors, such as milk and strawberry. The cute TIROL Chocolates that you can easily snack on are perfect as Halloween treats!

2.  Mire Biscuit

These old-fashioned biscuits have a pleasant crunchy texture. They offer a simple, nostalgic taste with a gentle sweetness that makes them irresistible once you start eating. Why not enjoy Halloween along with these delicious biscuits that are sure to bring smiles to your face?

3.  And Caramel Apple Butter (Senshuan)

This caramel offers a mellow buttery flavor and the sweet-tartness of apples. When you put it in your mouth, it quickly becomes soft, allowing you to savor its melting texture. So why not get a little luxurious this Halloween with these caramels?

Summary

In this blog post, we've delved into the fun-filled event of Halloween, which can be enjoyed by people of all ages, from children to adults. Additionally, we introduced some Japanese sweets perfect for your Halloween cravings.

Halloween, originally from Ireland, has become an annual and significant event in Japan, just like in other parts of the world. This year's Halloween, go all-in with your costumes, and enjoy it with the delightful treats from Zelico!