FLORENCE, ITALY – Halloween, though not a traditional Italian holiday, is steadily gaining traction across Tuscany and Italy, particularly among younger generations and in culturally vibrant cities. Italian celebrations now include costume parties, haunted tours, and autumn markets, blending local customs with imported traditions for a uniquely Italian twist on the spooky season.
Major cities, even in Tuscany, like Florence, Siena, Pisa host lively costume parades and themed parties. Italians of all ages participate, often dressing up in elaborate costumes that reflect both classic horror icons and contemporary characters.
Italy’s medieval history provides the perfect backdrop for haunted tours, especially in the touristic cities and in Medieval places. In Tuscany, towns like Borgo a Mozzano — known for its eerie Devil’s Bridge — offer visitors a chilling Halloween experience.
Markets across Italy celebrate autumn with displays of pumpkins (zucche), chestnuts, and mushrooms.
Although not as widespread as in the U.S., trick-or-treating is catching on in urban areas. Children, with “dolcetto o scherzetto” (treat or trick) as their motto, enjoy safe trick-or-treating routes organized in some communities.
Italy’s Halloween celebrations exist alongside the solemn observances of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, when Italians honor the dead by visiting cemeteries and attending church services.
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