October 30, 2009
Photo Diary: Halloween
While the modern perception of Halloween is steeped in images of trick-o-treating, costumes and jack-o-lanterns, All Hallows Eve originated as a celebration of family ancestry. Many of the world’s cultures continue this tradition, while also participating in more contemporary celebrations (bring on the candy and costume contests!). If you’re traveling in Portland, Tokyo or Amsterdam this weekend, you will find ample opportunities to showcase your costume and join in with local traditions.
Portland celebrates the Day of the Dead a few days early with the walking of the dead. Every year the Zombie Walk calls on locals and visitors to dress up in their Zombie best, strut through the city and even perform a massive group “Thriller” Dance routine in Pioneer Courthouse Square. This event is not for the faint of heart, so be prepared for some die hard costumes and plenty of photo-perfect moments.
Portland's Zombie Walk
In addition to Halloween, the Japanese celebrate the Buddhist holiday Obon in mid-August, where families and communities gather together to pray for the repose of their ancestors’ souls. Families light candles or chouchin believed to lead their ancestors safely back to their home where food, presents and celebrations await them. Complete with obake yashiki (haunted houses), ghost stories, a test of bravery called kimo-dameshi, and taiko drum demonstrations, Obon is a fun-filled, family event.
Candles or chouchin are lit to guide family members home during Obon.
Boom Chicago Amsterdam’s Halloween Bash is one of the hottest parties of the year. Guests come from around the world for this one evening of costumes, music and dancing. Intrigued? See this video from last year’s festivities:
Photo/Video credits: Skeleton and Pumpkins, Banana Donuts Half Baked Photography; Zombie Walk, IronMonkey007; Chouchin, Naxin; Boom Chicago, Boom Chicago
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