How to spend Halloween in Rome in 2021

Halloween, a festival celebrated on the 31st of October every year, is slowly gaining popularity in Italy, especially in Rome. While Rome may not have the same Halloween traditions as North America, there are still plenty of ways to get into the spooky spirit and enjoy the holiday in the Eternal City. If you happen to find yourself in Rome during this bewitching time, here are some suggestions on how to spend Halloween in Rome in 2021.

1. Explore the Haunted Sites: Rome is filled with mysterious and eerie locations that are perfect for a Halloween adventure. Visit the Capuchin Crypts, an underground burial chamber decorated with the remains of thousands of Capuchin monks. The crypts provide a chilling and unique experience. Another haunted location is the Colosseum. Take a nighttime tour of this ancient amphitheater and hear spine-chilling stories of gladiator battles and ghostly encounters.

2. Attend Halloween Parties: Rome’s nightlife scene comes alive during Halloween. Many bars, clubs, and restaurants organize special Halloween events and parties. Dress up in your most imaginative costume and head to places like Ex-Dogana or Circolo degli Illuminati, where you can dance the night away with fellow Halloween enthusiasts.

3. Visit Rome’s Dark Museums: Rome is renowned for its rich history and stunning museums. During Halloween, some museums offer special themed exhibitions that delve into the city‘s dark past. The Museum of Purgatory, located in the Church of the Sacred Heart of Suore del Sacro Cuore, displays objects believed to have been marked by souls in purgatory. It is a haunting and thought-provoking experience.

4. Join Ghost and Vampire Tours: Embark on a spooky tour of Rome’s hidden corners and hear chilling tales of vampires, ghosts, and paranormal activities. These guided tours take you through the city’s narrow streets and alleys, sharing stories of ancient curses and haunted places. It is an exciting way to explore Rome while getting into the Halloween spirit.

5. Celebrate with Traditional Italian Sweets: Halloween may not be the most predominant holiday in Italy, but Italians do love their sweets. Indulge in traditional Italian treats such as castagnole (sweet fritters), frappe (fried dough), or pan dei morti (bread of the dead). These delicious treats are associated with All Saints Day on November 1st, but they can still be enjoyed during Halloween.

6. Take a Spooky Walk in Villa Borghese: Villa Borghese, the largest public park in Rome, is a serene oasis during the day. However, as the sun sets, it takes on an eerie and mystical atmosphere. Stroll through the park’s paths lined with tall trees and listen to the rustling leaves. You might even catch a glimpse of bats flying overhead. It is a peaceful yet haunting way to spend Halloween in Rome.

7. Decorate Your Accommodation: If you are staying in Rome during Halloween, why not bring the festivities to your accommodation? Decorate your hotel room or rented apartment with spooky decorations like jack-o’-lanterns, fake cobwebs, and skeletons. It will create a lively and festive atmosphere, reminding you of the holiday spirit.

While Halloween might not be deeply rooted in Italian traditions, Rome still offers a range of activities to make the most of this spooky holiday. From haunted locations and themed parties to ghost tours and traditional treats, there are many ways to celebrate Halloween in the Eternal City. So, grab your costumes, embrace the Halloween spirit, and enjoy a memorable Halloween experience in Rome in 2021.