Halloween, short for All Hallows’ Eve, is celebrated on October 31 each year, mainly in countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada.
It is the eve of All Saints’ Day in Christian tradition, but over centuries it has evolved into a festive night of costumes, games, and spooky fun.
Today, even outside the West, Halloween is embraced with enthusiasm — especially in Vietnam, where it has become a creative celebration for self-expression and social connection among the young.
Halloween traces its roots to Samhain, an ancient festival celebrated over 2,000 years ago by the Celts in Ireland and Scotland.
They believed that on the night of October 31, the boundary between the world of the living and the dead became blurred, and spirits could return to the earth.
People lit bonfires and wore masks to ward off evil spirits — rituals that would later influence modern Halloween traditions.
As Christianity spread through Europe, the Church adopted pagan festivals and redefined October 31 as All Hallows’ Eve — the night before All Saints’ Day.
Over time, religious rituals mixed with folklore, eventually evolving into the modern Halloween that blends spirituality with entertainment.
Halloween allows people to transform fear into laughter and creativity. Dressing as ghosts and monsters is not about worshipping darkness but celebrating courage and imagination.
The holiday also carries a spiritual meaning — remembering and honoring those who have passed away, a tradition that connects Halloween with ancient rituals of remembrance.
The custom of Trick or Treat — children going door to door asking for candy — represents joy, generosity, and neighborhood connection.
In modern times, Halloween has become a celebration of creativity and individuality, where every costume and decoration tells a unique story.
Across Vietnam and other countries, cafes, clubs, and schools host Halloween parties with creative themes such as “Spooky Night” or “Dark Romance.”
Young people dress up as vampires, witches, or movie characters to enjoy the lively and mysterious atmosphere.
On social networks, Halloween is the perfect time for “spooky chic” photoshoots — stylish yet eerie.
Many people experiment with concept lighting, makeup, and props to create personalized Halloween looks that reflect their creativity.
Homes, classrooms, and cafés are decorated with pumpkins, candles, fairy lights, and spider webs.
Some enjoy making baked goods, candles, or Halloween crafts, turning the holiday into an artistic and cozy experience.
Main colors: orange, black, and purple — combined with warm yellow lighting for a cozy yet spooky atmosphere.
Common props: pumpkins, candles, string lights, old frames, dried leaves.
Trend for 2025: the “Spooky Chic” aesthetic — stylish and refined rather than overly scary.
Classic ideas: witches, vampire brides, porcelain dolls, and black cats.
Makeup focus: bold eyes, dramatic lips, pale foundation.
Emerging trend: “Dark Glamour” — elegant Halloween looks that work for both parties and fashion shoots.
Halloween continues to inspire film, fashion, art, and advertising around the world:
Movies: Halloween (1978), The Nightmare Before Christmas, Coraline, and many others have defined the holiday’s imagery.
Fashion: International and Vietnamese brands release limited-edition Halloween collections featuring dark tones and luxurious materials like lace and satin.
Marketing: October is a golden month for brands to run creative Halloween campaigns, blending storytelling with design and emotion.
From its ancient Celtic roots, Halloween has transformed into a worldwide celebration of imagination and expression.
It’s a day when people laugh at fear, celebrate life, and allow themselves to be different — just for one night.
For Vietnamese youth, Halloween has become not only a borrowed tradition but a cultural playground to explore creativity, individuality, and global connection.