Celebrating a Spooky Season with Spanish Flair
When October rolls around, the Costa del Sol embraces Halloween with a blend of traditional Spanish festivities and international Halloween customs. So, if you’re planning to be in Marbella, Estepona, or anywhere along the coast, here’s what to expect for Halloween in the Costa del Sol.
How is Halloween Celebrated in Spain?
The Spanish have always observed All Saints’ Day on November 1st to honour loved ones but in recent years more coastal areas, like the Costa del Sol, where many expat communities reside, have embraced Halloween resulting in 3 days of celebrations:
31st October - Día de las Brujas (Day of the Witches)
Halloween is celebrated as Día de las Brujas, with children going trick-or-treating (truco o trato).
1st November - Día de Todos los Santos (All Saints' Day)
This special day is a national holiday in Spain, when families honor deceased loved ones by returning to their hometowns to lay flowers on graves.
2nd November - Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead)
A more solemn occasion in Spain, with people going to graves to pay their respects to the deceased.
Halloween in Marbella: A Spooky Mix of Cultures
Marbella truly comes alive with Halloween events, blending American-style celebrations with a Mediterranean vibe. Halloween parties pop up in local venues, hotels, and even on the beach, making for a unique celebration. Families can enjoy pumpkin-carving contests, haunted house tours, and children’s costume parades hosted by Marbella’s local clubs and community centres.
Click here to find out more about the Day of the Dead and other local festivals in Marbella.
Costa del Sol’s Halloween Markets and Events
Many towns along the coast, including Estepona, Fuengirola, and Torremolinos, host Halloween-themed markets and events. These markets offer everything from seasonal treats to unique costumes, and many towns arrange special Halloween parades and parties for both children and adults. It's common to see little ones trick-or-treating through neighbourhoods in popular expat communities.
Halloween Food Traditions in Spain
A highlight of Halloween in Spain is the traditional Huesos de Santo (Saint’s Bones), a sweet pastry filled with marzipan that’s sold in bakeries around the holiday. Another seasonal treat is buñuelos de viento, light and fluffy doughnuts dusted with sugar, enjoyed with a cup of hot chocolate – perfect for crisp autumn evenings on the Costa del Sol.
Tips for Celebrating Halloween in the Costa del Sol
Costume Parades for Kids: Marbella and other coastal towns host safe trick-or-treating and costume contests – a great way for children to enjoy the day.
Local Halloween Parties: For adults, there are plenty of themed parties at Marbella’s famous nightlife spots.
Visit Local Markets: Pick up seasonal treats and Halloween decor at special markets in Estepona or Fuengirola.
Whether you’re joining a beachside celebration or exploring a Halloween market, Halloween in the Costa del Sol offers a fun way to experience Spanish culture with an international twist.
Happy Halloween from all at Bishop’s Move Spain!
