Halloween
World ObservancesOctober 31st Is Halloween! The Origins and the Real Meaning Behind "Trick or Treat"
October 31st is "Halloween," now firmly established as one of Japan's biggest autumn events too. It originates from the ancient Celtic harvest festival "Samhain," a time when the boundary between this world and the next was believed to blur—similar to Japan's Obon season.
The famous phrase "Trick or Treat" actually carries deep meaning. It's a remnant of a ritual to ward off evil spirits: offering treats to the spirits of the dead and the malevolent beings traveling with them, to appease them and send them on their way. Today it's a lively day of costumes and parties, but knowing the roots—gratitude for the harvest and warding off evil—adds a deeper layer of meaning to the celebration.
The Legend of the Jack-o'-Lantern
The hollowed-out pumpkin lantern symbolizes a fire meant to drive away evil spirits. Originally, people in Ireland used turnips, but when the tradition spread to America, pumpkins—which were more readily available—became the standard, and the custom spread worldwide.
[2026 Update] Comparing Halloween Costume and Home Party Trends
For Halloween 2026, ways of celebrating have diversified—shifting from "big celebrations in the streets" toward "home parties with close friends" and even "events in the metaverse." Costume trends continue to favor popular characters from movies and anime, alongside the enduringly popular humorous "low-key Halloween" looks based on everyday outfits.
When it comes to party prep, many people debate "homemade vs. store-bought." These days, the quality of decorations from 100-yen shops has improved, making it easy to create an Instagram-worthy space on a budget. On the other hand, ordering gourmet food and limited-edition sweets is also popular for adding a touch of luxury without the effort.
Comparing Halloween Styles: Outdoor Events vs. Home Parties
| Item | Outdoor Events / Parades | Home Party |
|---|---|---|
| Main costs | Costume, transportation | Food and drinks, decorations |
| Pros | Festive atmosphere and sense of unity | Relax without worrying about others |
| Cons | Crowds, finding a place to change | Effort of setup and cleanup |
| Best for | Groups of friends, those who love photos | Families, those who prefer to relax |
Last-Minute Prep: Ways to Enjoy Halloween Even at the Last Minute
- Grab limited-edition convenience store or department store sweets: Just lining up Halloween-themed packaged treats instantly boosts the atmosphere.
- Add one costume accent: A 100-yen headband or hat, or simply wearing orange and black, is enough.
- Join in online with a digital background: Even friends who can't meet in person can share the seasonal mood by changing their video call backgrounds.
In 2026, "sustainable Halloween" is also gaining attention. Rather than disposable costumes, people are choosing items they can wear as everyday clothes, and using leftover pumpkin in soups or gratins instead of throwing it away—small eco-conscious ways to celebrate.
Tips to Avoid Trouble on the Day
- Mind your manners: If wearing costumes in public, be considerate about where you change and take your trash with you.
- Food allergies: When handing out treats, individually wrapped items with ingredient labels are the polite choice.
Summary: Make October 31st a Day of Great Memories—Within Good Manners!
Halloween on October 31st is a magical day when you can forget your worries and smile.
- Origins: The ancient Celtic harvest festival and rituals to ward off evil spirits
- Trends: 2026's keywords are "diverse ways to celebrate" and "sustainability"
- Golden rule: Make smart use of 100-yen shops and convenience stores for last-minute prep, and keep good manners in mind
This once-a-year autumn festival—how will you spend it? Whether you transform with a costume or enjoy delicious pumpkin dishes, we hope you have a wonderful Halloween.