When Did Halloween Become a Thing in China?

Halloween is today, meaning that it’s time for children to dress up and go trick-or-treating. Decorations have been put up in front of shops and restaurants to get people into the Halloween spirit. The holiday is also being celebrated more; but how exactly did a Western holiday like Halloween become popular in China?

Halloween has gained popularity in big Chinese cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzh0u because of the number of foreigners and expat communities living there. Foreign teachers and international school often teach their students about Halloween and might have activities planned. Restaurants that usually have more foreigners and expats visiting will have theme nights or events as a form of promotion. Neighborhood with many expats will have Halloween parties and trick-or-treating for the children.

Senior Ji Hyun P. shared her thoughts on Halloween becoming more popular in China, stating: “China is becoming more international so I think that people celebrating holidays that are not from China are pretty usual. I think it is good people are celebrating things from a different culture.”

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