As October turns into November, Austin comes alive with two colorful and meaningful traditions: Halloween and Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). Although these holidays share the same season, they stem from very different cultural backgrounds and are celebrated in unique ways.
For international students, faculty, and scholars at UT Austin, this time of year provides a wonderful opportunity to experience both American traditions and the Mexican cultural influences that enrich Texas’ identity.
Halloween in the United States
Halloween, celebrated on October 31, has roots in ancient Celtic harvest festivals, though it has long since evolved into a widely celebrated holiday focused on costumes, candy, and community fun. Children often dress up and go “trick-or-treating” in their neighborhoods, while adults host themed parties or decorate their homes with spooky motifs such as jack-o’-lanterns, ghosts, and skeletons.
In Austin, the festive spirit extends well beyond residential neighborhoods. Local businesses decorate storefronts, restaurants offer themed menus, and the city’s nightlife districts — especially Sixth Street — become hubs for elaborate costumes and lively gatherings.
On campus, departments and student organizations often host Halloween-themed movie nights, pumpkin carving contests, and social events, creating opportunities to celebrate in a more relaxed setting.
If you want to experience Halloween locally, here are some seasonal highlights:
- ISSS Spooky Walk at Hyde Park: Get ready to get spooked as we walk through Halloween decorations and fall flora in Hyde Park on October 25. RSVP here.
- ISSS Pumpkin Painting: A Night of Halloween Decorating: Join us at the WCP North Ballroom on October 28, 5:30-7 p.m., for a spooktacular evening of crafting fun. RSVP here.
- Jester Towers of Terror: Explore this on-campus Halloween event featuring free food, a photo booth, and a haunted house.
- Pioneer Farms’ Pumpkin Nights: Walk through illuminated pumpkin displays and artistic installations.
- House of Torment: Visit one of Austin’s most famous haunted house attractions.
Día de los Muertos in Austin
While Halloween focuses on spooky fun, Día de los Muertos, observed on November 1-2, is a deeply meaningful tradition rooted in Mexican and Latin American culture.
Families create “ofrendas” (altars) decorated with photographs, candles, food, marigolds, and other items to welcome and honor the memories of loved ones who have passed away. Symbols such as colorful sugar skulls and the iconic “La Catrina” highlight the celebration’s joyful remembrance of life and family.
Austin’s strong Mexican American community ensures that Día de los Muertos is widely observed across the city. Notable celebrations include:
- Viva la Vida Festival and Parade: Experience Mexic-Arte Museum’s signature downtown celebration with a parade, art, music, and community altars.
- UT Día de los Muertos Event: Join this event featuring community altars, performances, and cultural activities.
- Waterloo Park’s Día de los Muertos Celebration: Explore this family-friendly gathering that features music, crafts, and cultural displays.
Experiencing Both Traditions
For members of the UT Austin international community, the coinciding of these holidays offer a glimpse into two sides of life in Texas. Halloween invites creativity and playfulness, while “Día de los Muertos” offers an opportunity to reflect on themes of memory, family, and heritage.
Whether you carve a pumpkin, wear a costume, or visit a community altar, participating in these celebrations can deepen your connection to Austin and its diverse cultural fabric.
As you explore these traditions, consider attending events with colleagues, friends, or family. Together, they provide a balance of festive fun and meaningful remembrance — two experiences that highlight the unique cultural richness of Austin each fall.
This blog post was contributed by Sarah Chiu, program coordinator on the Intercultural Programs and Initiatives team at ISSS.
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