Halloween in Colombia

Halloween in Colombia: A Blend of Tradition and Fun

In Colombia, Halloween is known as "Noche de Brujas" (Night of the Witches) and is celebrated on October 31st, just like in many other countries around the world. However, it has its unique flavor and traditions that set it apart from the stereotypical Halloween celebrations.

History

Halloween celebrations in Colombia began to gain popularity during the 1980s and 1990s. This can be attributed to the influence of American culture, which reached Colombia through movies, TV shows, and other media outlets. Moreover, the younger generations embraced the idea of dressing up in costumes and going door-to-door for treats. Over time, Halloween became an eagerly anticipated event throughout the country.

Customs

National customs for Halloween in Colombia

In Colombia, Halloween is a time for fun and excitement, especially for children. They dress up in costumes, often inspired by their favorite characters from movies, TV shows, or comic books. They go door-to-door, saying "Tricky-Traca" (a Colombian version of "Trick-or-Treat") in hopes of receiving candy and other treats.

Adults also participate in the festivities by attending costume parties, visiting haunted houses, and partaking in themed events at nightclubs and other venues. A common tradition in Colombia is for businesses, schools, and other organizations to hold costume contests, where individuals and groups compete for prizes and recognition.

Local customs for Halloween in Colombia

While Halloween is celebrated all over Colombia, some regions have their unique local customs. In the city of Cali, for example, people celebrate "Desfile de Mitos y Leyendas" (Parade of Myths and Legends) during the Halloween season. This event features a parade of floats, dancers, and performers dressed as mythical creatures and characters from Colombian folklore.

In the town of Sutamarchán, in the Boyacá department, a peculiar event called "Tomatina" takes place every year during the Halloween season. This event is inspired by the famous Tomatina festival in Spain and involves participants throwing tomatoes at each other in a fun and messy celebration.

On the other hand, in some parts of Colombia, people celebrate "Día de los Angelitos" (Day of the Little Angels) on November 1st. This day is dedicated to remembering and honoring deceased children and is marked by visits to cemeteries, lighting candles, and offering prayers.

Conclusion

Halloween in Colombia is a lively and fun-filled event with a unique blend of traditional and modern customs. From children trick-or-treating to adults attending costume parties, the celebration has something for everyone. As the festivities continue to evolve, Colombians will undoubtedly find new ways to make Halloween an even more exciting and memorable experience.