It’s the end of September – the leaves are turning, the air is getting crisp, and your brain is already moving into spooky season mode. October is around the corner, and you’re probably wondering: Is Halloween a thing here?
Short answer: Kind of. But not in the way you might expect.
You might spot some pumpkins in supermarkets, maybe a themed event or two, and students planning costume parties. But don’t be surprised if your Lithuanian neighbor looks puzzled when you ask about Halloween – or politely tells you, “We don’t really celebrate that.”
So, before you go all-in on ghosts and goblins, let’s talk about why Halloween hasn’t exactly won over older Lithuanians – and how to enjoy October in a way that fits the local vibe.
1. Halloween Isn’t a Lithuanian Tradition
The main thing you need to know? Halloween wasn’t part of anyone’s childhood (unless they’re Gen Z), and it didn’t come from Lithuanian folklore, religion, or seasonal customs. Instead, it arrived via pop culture – movies, social media, and, yes, supermarkets.
Meanwhile, Lithuania already has a meaningful, time-honored tradition at this time of year: Vėlinės, or All Souls’ Day, on November 2nd. It’s a day to honor the dead, visit cemeteries, light candles on loved ones’ graves, and reflect quietly with family.
So when Halloween shows up just a day or two before that – with costumes, jokes, and ghosts-for-fun – it can feel like an awkward cultural mismatch.
2. The Vibes Are Just... Different
Let’s be real: Halloween is playful, bold, and loud. It’s all about imagination, creativity, and maybe even a little chaos.
Vėlinės? It’s calm, quiet, and deeply emotional.
That contrast is why many seniors feel uncomfortable with the idea of celebrating Halloween right before a sacred time of remembrance. The tone doesn’t match the season – and for people who are closely connected to their cultural and spiritual traditions, that matters.
Source: pexels.com
3. But the Younger Crowd? Totally On Board
Let’s not pretend Lithuania is a Halloween-free zone.
Kindergartens have costume days, pumpkins appear in shops, and plenty of teens and students enjoy celebrating in their own way. Especially in cities, you’ll definitely find people leaning into the Halloween spirit.
But it’s mostly younger people – and even they know it’s still kind of a “new” thing here. So while you’re totally welcome to join the spooky fun, don’t be surprised if your Lithuanian roommate shrugs it off or your neighbor just doesn’t get the hype.
So... Can You Celebrate Halloween in Lithuania?
Yes, definitely – just do it with a little cultural awareness.
Here’s how to make it fun and respectful:
Keep Halloween and Vėlinės separate. Enjoy your costume and creativity on the 31st, and take a quiet moment to observe or learn about Vėlinės on November 1–2.
Be mindful of the timing. Posting spooky content during cemetery visits? Maybe not the move.
Start conversations. Ask your Lithuanian friends how they feel about Halloween. You might be surprised by the mix of opinions.
Share your own customs. Many Lithuanians are curious to hear how Halloween is celebrated in other countries – it could lead to a really thoughtful exchange.
Spooky Season, Lithuanian Edition
So, yes – you can still carve that pumpkin and rock that costume. Just know that around you, others are preparing candles, remembering loved ones, and visiting cemeteries.
You came to Lithuania to experience something new, right? Well, this is part of it. A country where the end of October means more than costumes – it means quiet, memory, and connection.
So wear the costume, enjoy the fun, and also light a candle. That’s the kind of balance that makes you not just a visitor – but someone who truly gets it.
Truly Yours,
Karolina, OLS Community Manager – Lithuanian