Halloween. The festival celebrated on October 31 with ghoulish costumes and trick or treating. Halloween is much the same in Europe, too. However, it didn't start out as the commercialized event it is today.
The festival was actually born in the Vatican when Pope Gregory IV declared the day "All Saints" day as a way to honor all the saints who did not have their own day. The night before was celebrated as All Hallows Eve when Christians would travel from door to door begging for food to feed the hungry.
While Halloween isn't celebrated as lavishly as it is across the U.S., there are some European countries that get into it more than others. For great Halloween experiences, head for one of these main events:
Fete des Corcieres (The Witch Festival) in Chalindrey, located in the Champagne-Ardenne region. This festival has been linked to the witch trials of the 16th and 17th centuries. Celebrations include a haunted dance, scary movies and more.
The London Dungeon in London brings the capital's bloody history to life with live actors, thrilling rides and special effects.
The Banks of the Foyle Halloween Carnival in Londonderry, Ireland. The carnival offers a parade, fireworks, haunted houses, ghost tours, scary movies and more. All those who attend wear costumes.
Europa-park in Rust, Germany, has entertainment galore. Decorated for Halloween, this theme park turns into one big party with heaps of fun.
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