Halloween is a western tradition that takes place each year on the 31st of October to celebrate the dead. It is common to celebrate this day by dressing up in scary costumes, going to Halloween parties and, for children, knocking on neighbours doors to receive sweets (known in Scotland as “guising”).
What better way to spend this holiday than in Edinburgh – one of the spookiest cities in the United Kingdom? In addition to Edinburgh’s most haunted attractions, there are lots of different Halloween-themed things to do throughout October. Some of them are so popular that you need to book in advance to ensure your place! Here are a few of them:
Ghillie Dhu: Murder Mystery / Ceilidh (27 – 29 Oct):
At the Ghillie Dhu, you can enjoy dinner while being immersed in a Murder Mystery. And, if you dress up in your scariest costume, you might win a prize, as there will be a dress-up competition. What a nice evening to spend before Halloween!
Image Credit: Flickr, TED Translators
Edinburgh Horror Festival (28 – 31 Oct):
Yes, Edinburgh has also been running this Horror Festival since…2016! The goal of this festival is to showcase artists whose style is related to the Halloween theme (Gothic, supernatural, paranormal, or horror). All the events are free and will be held in different venues around the city. The programme suggests various fun Halloween-themed ideas: haunted bars, myths and legends quizzes, talking with the dead, Edinburgh’s ghostly hot spots and more…
Edinburgh’s Halloween Ceilidh Ball (29 Oct):
What about celebrating Halloween with a Ceilidh? It’s certainly worth it, as Halloween wouldn’t be Halloween without a traditional ball. So, on Saturday, 29th October at 8 pm, remember to come with your costume and purchase your ticket beforehand!
Image Credit: Flickr, Gunnar Grimnes
Samhuinn Fire Festival (31 Oct):
The Samhuinn Fire Festival is a festival of performances and street theatre which takes place on the historic Royal Mile. On Monday, 31st October, you will have the opportunity to see them from 9 pm. IT’s free but donations are welcome.
Rave of Thrones: Halloween feat. Kristian Nairn (Hodor) DJ Set (31 Oct):
And to finish the Halloween season, come and join the party at the Liquid Rooms! Rave of Thrones will feature a. Have a smooth drink of blood and dance between 10 pm until 3 am!
And that’s not all: you can also take part in the usual Scottish Halloween traditions wherever you are: bobbing for apples, making a Jack-o-lantern and much more! Take a look at the official website for Halloween in Edinburgh here!
Most importantly… have fun!
What you can expect from Halloween in Edinburgh….
The Halloween Parade in Edinburgh:
