Halloween 2025 – Undas
When October rolls around, the air in the Philippines starts to feel different, cooler nights, flickering candles in cemeteries, and the faint echoes of laughter from children in costumes. Halloween here isn’t just about trick-or-treating or haunted houses. It’s a colorful mix of Western fun and deep-rooted Filipino traditions that honor both the living and the dead.
Western Influence: Trick-or-Treating and Costume Parties 👻
In recent decades, Halloween celebrations in the Philippines have taken on a more Western flair. Shopping malls, subdivisions, and schools often host trick-or-treat events, where kids parade around in adorable (or spooky!) costumes to collect candy.
Adults get in on the fun too, costume parties are everywhere, from office events to nightlife venues. You’ll see everything from classic vampires and witches to local horror icons like the aswang, white lady, and tikbalang.
Social media plays a huge role as well. Filipinos love creativity and friendly competition, so expect to see elaborate DIY costumes and makeup transformations trending on TikTok and Instagram.
The Filipino Way: “Undas” or All Saints’ and All Souls Day 🕯️
While Halloween itself (October 31) is celebrated lightly, the real highlight comes on November 1 and 2, All Saints Day (Undas) and All Souls Day. These are deeply meaningful holidays for Filipino families, focused on remembering and honoring departed loved ones.
During this time, cemeteries across the country come alive. Families visit graves, clean tombstones, offer flowers, light candles, and bring food to share. Some even spend the night at the cemetery, turning it into a mini family reunion, complete with stories, laughter, and shared meals under the stars.
It’s a time for reflection and connection, blending solemn remembrance with the warmth of togetherness.
Modern Twists on an Old Tradition
In urban areas, especially Metro Manila, younger generations have started merging the spooky fun of Halloween with the reflective spirit of Undas. Some families visit cemeteries by day and attend costume parties by night. Others decorate their homes with both jack-o’-lanterns and religious altars.
Media and pop culture have also played a big role in reshaping the season. Horror movies, ghost-hunting TV specials, and local legends resurface every October, keeping the supernatural spirit alive.
A Season of Duality: Fun and Faith 🎆
Halloween in the Philippines beautifully captures the country’s unique cultural identity, a balance between joy and reverence, laughter and prayer, Western influence and Filipino soul.
For Filipinos, this season isn’t just about scares or sweets. It’s about remembering where we came from, celebrating the bonds that death can’t break, and of course, having a little fun along the way.
Check out Christmas in the Philippines – A Celebration Like No Other
