Halloween in Thailand: what to know and where to celebrate in 2022

Halloween is a big holiday in most western countries, it's the day when people dress up, carve pumpkins and have fun with anything spooky.

The holiday originated in Europe and was mostly celebrated in the United States, but in recent years it has made a comeback and has become increasingly popular in Europe.

In Thailand, things are different.

You won't see the festive atmosphere in every corner of the country.

But that doesn't mean you can't celebrate Halloween.

There are actually many things you can do to participate in the spooky festivities.

Here's what you need to know about Halloween in Thailand in 2022.

What is Halloween?

According to the History Channel, Halloween has its roots in the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain.

The Celts held this festival because they believed that on 31 October the boundaries between the world of the living and the dead could become blurred, and that spirits could return to earth.

During this festival, people lit bonfires and dressed up to ward off ghosts.

As a result, well-known elements of Halloween, such as witches, ghosts and goblins, have been associated with the festival.

In the 8th century, Pope Gregory III made November 1st All Saints' Day to honour all celestial beings.

The day before, it was called "All Hallows Eve".

The customs of All Hallows' Eve and Celtic traditions gradually blended over time, eventually giving rise to the festival of Halloween as we know it today.

Nowadays, Halloween is no longer directly associated with a religion.

Instead, it's a party full of fun, trick-or-treating, ghost stories and, of course, fancy costumes.

Does Thailand celebrate Halloween?

Traditionally, 31 October is nothing special in Thailand.

It's not "the scariest day of the year", children don't go trick-or-treating, no one puts pumpkins in their garden, and people don't dress up.

Halloween does not usually exist in Thailand.

Some Thais also have strong beliefs in supernatural beings.

They hold the spirits in high regard and feel that participating in Halloween would enrage them.

That said, you can still find some Halloween festivities in Thailand, especially in tourist areas like Bangkok, Pattaya and Phuket.

Due to massive tourism and strong Western influences, Halloween continues to grow in popularity in Thailand.

You can now find many festivals, parties and all kinds of events to celebrate Halloween.

Adults who like to dress up and party will fill the nightclubs, while children can enjoy Halloween-themed activities such as arts and crafts.

Some events may include the distribution of sweets, but this is different from what happens in the West.

Some shops, cafés and restaurants display Halloween decorations.

There are also many Halloween-themed items for sale for adults and children, from candy to biscuits to accessories.

So don't worry, you can still have fun on Halloween in Thailand!

If you want to participate in Halloween, keep in mind that most Thais do not celebrate it.

Even the locals who celebrate it don't care about most Halloween traditions that are important elsewhere.

Therefore, do not walk around your neighbourhood wearing scary costumes and standing over people to scare them.

And don't go knocking on people's doors asking for a sweet or a treat.

Where to celebrate Halloween in Thailand?

You will find special Halloween parties in all tourist areas of Thailand, many employees are already dressed up and costumes or masks are on sale in many shops.

With Bangkok back in full force, the capital's clubs, restaurants and hotels have set up activities to join in the fun.

Whether you're looking for a family event or want to party all night, here are the best places to go to celebrate Halloween in Bangkok.

Halloween brunch weekend (family-friendly)

When: 29 - 30 October 2022, 11:30 - 16:00

Address: 14, 2 Soi Somkid, Lumphini, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330

Bring your kids to enjoy a spooky brunch at Siri House this weekend.

The Halloween brunch for children will not only include delicious food, but also a wide range of entertainment.

Children will be able to have their faces painted for Halloween, play games and watch classic children's Halloween films such as Hotel Transylvania.

Green Me Organic Farm Halloween Party (for families)

When: 29 - 30 October - 2 parties per day, 10:00 - 13:00 (1st party) and 15:00 - 18:00 (2nd party)

Address: 888 Nikhom San Ton Eng Lam Takhong Rd, Nong Sarai, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima 3013

Have a spooky and fun time with your kids at the Green Me Halloween party.

There will be a special Halloween meal, all sorts of fun games and fun prizes.

Let your children wear their best costumes and win the competition!