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Here's How To Say Happy Halloween In 13 Different Languages

Photo by Allison Saeng on Unsplash

From spooky costumes to elaborate parties, more and more cultures are embracing the Halloween spirit, even if trick-or-treating isn’t a universal norm. But one thing that's fun no matter where you are? Saying "Happy Halloween" in the local language.

Whether you're travelling or just curious about how Halloween sounds in another language, QuillBot outline how to wish a "Happy Halloween" in 13 different languages.

As Halloween spreads worldwide, it’s clear that this spooky holiday means something a little different in each country. In Mexico, for example, it’s closely tied to Día de los Muertos, or the Day of the Dead, which is more of a time for honouring ancestors than scaring them away.

In Japan, Halloween is less about sweets and more about elaborate cosplay and parades, especially in places like Shibuya. Even in countries where the holiday isn’t traditionally celebrated, the influence of Western media has brought it into the spotlight, with people hosting parties, carving pumpkins, and decorating with spooky items.

While the celebrations might differ from place to place, the phrase "Happy Halloween" is something you can learn to say in nearly any language. Whether you're planning to travel or just want to impress your friends, these translations will help you add some global flair to your Halloween greetings.

Let’s dive into how to say “Happy Halloween” in different languages:

1. Portuguese (Portugal, Brazil) – Feliz Dia das Bruxas

Portugal and Brazil have slowly adopted Halloween, and it’s particularly popular among younger generations. In Portuguese, the phrase Feliz Dia das Bruxas translates to "Happy Witches' Day," reflecting the witchy, mystical elements of the holiday. In Brazil, Halloween parties are on the rise, while in Portugal, the holiday is often overshadowed by the traditional celebration of Dia de Todos os Santos.

2. Irish (Ireland) - Oíche Shamhna Shona

Given that Halloween originated from the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain in Ireland, it’s a natural fit to include the Irish language. Halloween, or Oíche Shamhna in Irish, is celebrated widely in Ireland with traditional bonfires, fireworks, and spooky tales. The phrase Oíche Shamhna Shona means "Happy Halloween," reflecting the deep cultural roots the holiday has in Irish tradition.

3. Greek (Greece, Cyprus) – Καλό Χαλοουίν (Kaló Chalouín)

Halloween as a holiday isn’t traditionally celebrated in Greece, as the country has its own set of seasonal festivals tied to both ancient customs and Orthodox Christian traditions. However, with the influence of Western culture, Halloween has slowly gained some popularity, especially among younger generations and in urban areas like Athens and Thessaloniki.

In Greece, the equivalent to Halloween is Apokries, a carnival season that leads up to Lent. Apokries is more deeply rooted in Greek culture and involves costumes, masquerades, and parades. It takes place in the weeks before Easter and has a similar celebratory atmosphere, with people dressing up, although the themes are less focused on the spooky and more on general fun and disguise.

When Halloween is acknowledged, it’s primarily celebrated in larger cities through costume parties and themed events, and Kaló Chalouín (Happy Halloween) is the phrase used to greet people during this time. Greek stores and restaurants catering to tourists or the expat community may also promote Halloween with decorations and themed events.

4. Japanese (Japan) – Happī Harowīn

In Japan, Halloween is more focused on vibrant, extravagant costumes than on traditional spooky elements. The holiday has become a major event, especially in Tokyo, where fashion and cosplay take center stage. People dress in elaborate outfits and participate in street parades, particularly in areas like Shibuya, known for its lively Halloween street parties. The phrase Happī Harowīn is a direct translation of "Happy Halloween" from English, commonly found on decorations and promotional materials. While trick-or-treating isn't a common practice, Halloween is celebrated with great enthusiasm across the country.

5. Filipino/Tagalog (Philippines) – Maligayang Araw ng mga Patay

In the Philippines, Halloween is closely linked to Undás (All Saints' Day) and Araw ng mga Patay (Day of the Dead), observed from October 31st to November 2nd. While the more religious aspects of the holiday are prominent, Halloween-themed parties, costume contests, and trick-or-treating have grown in popularity, particularly in urban areas like Manila.

Halloween may have originated in Western Europe, but its spirit has spread to every corner of the globe, adapting to local customs and cultures along the way. Whether it’s celebrated with spooky costumes, colourful parades, or honouring the dead, the holiday continues to evolve in new and exciting ways. Learning how to say "Happy Halloween" in different languages is a small, but meaningful way to connect with the world and appreciate the diverse ways people celebrate.