Halloween in Vietnam: Costumes, Decorations, and Where to Celebrate

Halloween is no longer just a Western festival; it has become a popular celebration in Vietnam’s big cities, especially among young people and expats. From creative Halloween costumes to colorful Halloween decorations in shopping malls, Vietnam offers a unique blend of Western traditions and local creativity. This article explores how Halloween in Vietnam is celebrated, the best places to experience it, and why it feels both familiar and different.

1. Halloween in Vietnam: A Growing Celebration

Halloween has evolved far beyond its Western roots. In Vietnam, especially in urban centers like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang, the festival has gained traction among students, families, and the expat community. What was once a niche event is now a vibrant part of the seasonal calendar, with schools, shopping malls, and cafés embracing the spooky spirit.

In recent years, Vietnamese schools have begun organizing Halloween-themed activities, such as costume contests, pumpkin carving, and storytelling sessions. English centers and international schools often use Halloween as a fun way to teach language and culture, making it both educational and entertaining. Children dress up as ghosts, superheroes, or cartoon characters, while teachers decorate classrooms with cobwebs and skeletons. Parents are increasingly involved too, helping their kids prepare costumes or attending school events.

Outside the classroom, Halloween has become a social occasion. Teenagers and young adults plan themed parties weeks in advance, often coordinating outfits with friends or joining cosplay competitions. Cafés and bars host Halloween nights with music, games, and prizes for best costume. For many, it’s not just about dressing up—it’s about expressing identity, creativity, and humor.

Two aspects stand out in this growing trend: Halloween costumes, which range from eerie to extravagant, and Halloween decorations, which transform everyday spaces into haunted hideaways. Vietnamese youth are particularly enthusiastic, often organizing photo shoots in costume or sharing their looks on social media. The festival has become a canvas for self-expression, blending global pop culture with local imagination.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, experiencing Halloween in Vietnam offers a fresh perspective on a global tradition. It’s a celebration that feels both familiar and refreshingly different.

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2. Halloween Costumes in Vietnam – From Spooky to Creative

In Vietnam, Halloween fashion is a fusion of fright and flair. Young people take the opportunity to showcase their creativity, blending classic horror with pop culture and anime influences. Costumes range from traditional witches and vampires to characters from blockbuster films and viral series.

Popular shopping streets like Hang Ma in Hanoi and Nguyen Trai or Le Van Sy in Ho Chi Minh City become costume hubs in October. These areas offer everything from budget-friendly masks to full cosplay outfits. Many shops also provide rental services, which are ideal for travelers or those attending multiple events. Some stores even offer package deals that include costume, makeup, and accessories.

Online platforms like Shopee and Lazada also offer a wide selection of Halloween costumes, including accessories like wigs, fake blood, and props. Some local designers create custom outfits for themed parties or performances, especially in the cosplay community. Social media influencers often showcase their Halloween looks days before the event, inspiring others to get creative.

Common costume themes include:

• Witches & vampires – timeless and easy to accessorize
• Movie-inspired looks – Joker, Harley Quinn, Squid Game guards
• Asian horror icons – ghostly women in white áo dài, folklore spirits
• Anime characters – Naruto, Demon Slayer, Sailor Moon
• Funny mashups – zombie chefs, haunted schoolgirls, ghost influencers

For tourists, renting a costume is both practical and affordable. Many stores also offer professional makeup services, helping you achieve a complete transformation. Whether you’re attending a themed party or just strolling through a decorated mall, dressing up is part of the fun. It’s also a great way to connect with locals, many will stop to compliment your outfit or ask for a photo.

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3. Halloween Decorations in Vietnam – Turning the City Spooky

As October rolls in, Vietnam’s cities begin to glow with eerie charm. Halloween decorations pop up in cafés, restaurants, and especially shopping malls like Vincom and AEON Mall. The color palette is unmistakable: orange, black, and purple dominate storefronts and interiors.

Local businesses go all out, creating immersive experiences with cobwebs, skeletons, and jack-o’-lanterns. Some even host decoration contests or offer discounts for customers in costume. The festive atmosphere is perfect for families, couples, and groups of friends looking to enjoy the season.

Even small cafés and boutique shops join in, offering Halloween-themed drinks and desserts. You’ll find pumpkin lattes, ghost-shaped cookies, and black burgers on seasonal menus. These spots often become popular photo backdrops, especially among social media users. Some cafés even host mini-events like tarot readings or horror movie screenings.

Common types of Halloween decorations include:

Looking to decorate your own space? Head to Dong Xuan Market in Hanoi or explore local craft stores for handmade items. For larger setups, some event companies offer full-service decoration packages tailored to homes, offices, or venues. In apartment buildings, neighbors sometimes collaborate to decorate shared spaces, turning hallways into spooky corridors.

4. Where to Celebrate Halloween in Vietnam

Vietnam offers a wide range of Halloween experiences, from street parties to family-friendly festivals. Whether you’re in the north, south, or central region, there’s something for everyone.

Hanoi

• Hoan Kiem Walking Street: A lively gathering spot with street performances, costume parades, and photo zones. The area becomes a sea of masks and makeup, with music and dance adding to the festive vibe.
• West Lake Water Park: Hosts an annual Halloween Festival featuring games, haunted houses, and live shows. It’s especially popular with families and school groups.
• Vincom Center: Offers themed shopping experiences and kids’ activities, including trick-or-treat corners and costume contests.

Ho Chi Minh City

• Bui Vien Street: Known for its nightlife, this area becomes a Halloween hotspot with themed parties and bar crawls. Expect DJs, neon lights, and plenty of spooky surprises.
• Crescent Mall & AEON Mall Tan Phu: Offer safe, family-friendly events with costume contests and trick-or-treat zones.
• Thao Dien: Popular among expats, with private Halloween parties and community events. Villas and cafés in the area often host themed gatherings with live music and games.

Da Nang – Ba Na Hills

Ba Na Hills Halloween Night: The most elaborate Halloween celebration in central Vietnam. The entire park transforms into a haunted castle, complete with parades, live performances, and immersive decor. Visitors can enjoy themed rides, spooky mazes, and costumed staff who stay in character throughout the night.

In smaller cities like Nha Trang, Hue, or Can Tho, Halloween is quieter but still present. International schools, resorts, and expat communities often organize their own events, creating intimate and memorable celebrations.

5. Tips for Tourists Experiencing Halloween in Vietnam

Planning to join the Halloween fun while traveling in Vietnam? Here are a few practical tips to make the most of your experience:

• Costumes: Rent locally to save money and avoid packing bulky outfits. Shops in major cities offer a wide range of choices.
• Food & Drinks: Try themed items like pumpkin lattes, black burgers, or ghost-shaped cookies at seasonal cafés.
• Safety: Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas, especially during street festivals. Use crossbody bags and avoid carrying valuables.
• Families with kids: Opt for events at malls or parks, which offer safer and more controlled environments than nightlife districts.
• Weather: Late October can be humid or rainy—choose breathable costumes and bring a light poncho if needed.
• Language: Most events are visual and interactive, so language barriers are minimal. However, basic Vietnamese phrases or translation apps can enhance your experience.

Vietnam’s Halloween scene is welcoming and inclusive, making it easy for tourists to join in without missing a beat. Locals are often curious and friendly, and participating in the festivities is a great way to connect across cultures.

6. Conclusion – Halloween in Vietnam: More Than Just a Festival

Halloween in Vietnam has grown into a dynamic cultural event, blending global traditions with local flair. From spooky Halloween costumes to eye-catching Halloween decorations, the celebration offers something for everyone—whether you’re a partygoer, a parent, or a curious traveler.

Major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang provide the best settings to enjoy the festivities. With vibrant street scenes, themed events, and welcoming communities, Halloween in Vietnam is more than just a night of fun—it’s a cultural experience that’s both familiar and refreshingly unique. So if you’re planning a trip in late October, choose one of Vietnam’s major cities and dive into the fun. Halloween in Vietnam is more than just a festival—it’s a chance to see how global traditions come alive in local ways.

7. FAQs – Quick Guide for Foreign Travelers