It’s that time of the year again: the days are getting shorter, the nights are getting cooler, and All Hallows Eve is fast approaching. After a rather underwhelming Halloween last year as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, you may be looking forward to going big again this year to make up for it. Fret not, as we’re here to guide you through your Halloween options here in the Netherlands.
Things might not be fully back to normal, but there are definitely various ways for you to get your Halloween on this year. Whether you’re looking to celebrate as a family with the kids, or looking for bone-chilling events for you and your friends, there’s something for everyone!
Every year, the Walibi Spooky Days and Fright Nights are definite highlights in the Halloween events calendar. If you’re looking for some family-friendly fun, plan a seriously spooky day out at Walibi, as their Spooky Days events are perfect for little monsters aged six to 12. Alternatively, prepare yourself for some real scares at one of the Fright Nights.
Another great option for families with kids is to book a Halloween-themed weekend away at one of the various Center Parcs across the country. Enjoy some quality time together and get creative as you carve pumpkins and decorate broomsticks, or have the little ones let out their little witches and wizard during the Halloween Disco.
Amsterdam Halloween is back! The Dutch capital’s biggest Halloween party returns to WesterUnie, as the nightclub is transformed into the Paranormal Horror Circus. This club night is one for the die-hard Halloween fans, as only those who arrive in costume will be granted entry to the event. This year’s version of Amsterdam Halloween will look a little different, though, as COVID-19 rules mean it will be taking place between 3pm and midnight on October 30.
Looking for costume inspiration ahead of the big night? Check out Fantasy Fest in The Hague on October 23 or 24 and let your imagination run wild! Featuring performances, costumes, live music, escape rooms, and fantastical markets, this is the perfect event for getting into the Halloween spirit.
Another event for those who are no longer considered children but still want to celebrate the spooky season is Crazy Sexy Cool in Rotterdam. Get ready for big costumes and even bigger scares at this iconic Halloween event on October 30, where no costume is too bizarre or too racy.
Another more child-friendly event is the Children’s Halloween Party in The Hague. Get the kids dressed up in their favourite costumes for an afternoon of music and tonnes of festive fun on October 30!
The holiday may traditionally be associated with gorging yourself on as many sweet and unhealthy treats as your body can handle, but why not mix it up a bit this year and get active for Halloween! Don’t worry, we’re not telling you to go to the gym or head out for a run in this cold weather, but you could try one of the night- or Halloween-climbing events in Almere, Rotterdam, Amsterdam, or Venlo.
Similarly to Walibi, Toverland in Eindhoven offers Halloween-themed events for all ages. The theme park transforms into a Halloween wonderland, hosting Halloween Days for those under the age of 12, and Halloween Nights for those who are a little older and have a better tolerance for scares.
Whether you’re going out, staying in, getting all dressed up, or just celebrating with some popcorn and scary movies at home, IamExpat wishes you a spooktacular (and safe) Halloween!