Unique Halloween traditions around the world

Halloween traditions have began with the festivals of the ancient Celts of Ireland and Scotland. On the
night of October 31 to November 1, these peoples remembered their loved ones who had retired to
another world. Even then, the pumpkins were made with flashlights. The purpose of these lamps was to
help the souls of the dead ancestors to find their way to purgatory. In the modern world, the Halloween is
celebrated in different countries of the world. This is not only an old tradition, but also a cause to have
fun. In every country there are different ways of celebrating this day.
1. YheUSA
Americans are preparing for Halloween almost a month before the holiday. In early October, the stores
decorate their windows in the Halloween theme and offer a huge selection of decor and carnival
costumes. In the evening of October 31, children go to their homes with baskets in the form of pumpkins
and ask for sweets, pronouncing the phrase "Trick or treat", which can be translated as "Sweets or Life."
As a rule Americans pre-purchase more candy, because do not open the door on the eve of Halloween - it
is a bad omen.
2. Germany
In Germany, Halloween is not a major holiday, however, people start to get ready for it since September.
Throughout the country, children put on suits of witches, vampires or other eerie heroes. In Germany,
children do not go around their neighbors and do not ask for sweets, as is done in many countries. Above
all it is the castle of Frankenstein, where is organized the most grandiose show for this holiday. Up to
20,000 visitors annually go to the ruins of the castle to be frightened and horrified.
3. The United Kingdom
Surprisingly, but the well-bred English people have fun on Halloween. Many of them adore this holiday
and rightly consider that it is their national treasure. We remind that Ireland for many years was the
territory of England, and became independent only in the middle of the last century. So these two
countries really have more than two centuries of common history. Englishmen can have profit even from
the memory of their ancestors; therefore, in many ancient castles on Halloween, or rather, a week before
it, they organize excursions, in which tourists could learn about the ghosts of ladies and gentlemen who
lived and died in these walls.
4. France
In France, Halloween is a good tradition. The streets of all the cities of France are transformed into a real
fairy tale. On the streets, passers-by look at empty pumpkins with empty eyes. In restaurants and cafes,
the stormy festivities do not stop until the morning. In all bakeries and confectioneries in France on this
day you can buy a "pie of all the saints," decorated with images of saints. The most impressive
amusement of France are held in the suburbs of Paris, in Disneyland and in Limoges. That's where more
than 30 thousand people come every year, that's where the most memorable parades of goblins, vampires
and ghosts illuminate their way with lanterns - pumpkins. This night bars and cafes of French cities offer
"witch" dishes, and visitors dress up as colorful as parade participants.
 5. China
In China, the holiday is known more as Teng Chieh - the day of remembrance of ancestors. In contrast to
the whole world, Halloween in China is celebrated beautifully. On this day, in front of the photos of
deceased relatives and friends, tasty food and water are put, as well as a light illuminating the way of the
souls of their ancestors. The Buddhist monks make paper boats, some of these have reach enormous sizes.
When the sun is hiding, these boats are burned, so that their smoke helps the ancestral spirits to get to
heaven.