If you wander through Paris in late October, you might spot a pumpkin in a boulangerie window or a witch sipping wine at a bistrot. But wait — do the French really celebrate Halloween?
The French Attitude Towards Halloween
Halloween isn’t a traditional French holiday. But it still exists in Paris!
French people first learned about Halloween in the 1990s, thanks to American movies and the growing influence of U.S. culture in Europe.
Nowadays, Halloween is widely known in France, but it is still not as deeply rooted in French culture as in the US.
Do French People Actually Celebrate Halloween?
Yes, they do!
- Many children, especially in smaller towns put on their costumes and go trick-or-treating.
- For young adults, Halloween is mostly an excuse to go out and have fun. Many head to bars, clubs, or private apartment parties with some going all-in on costumes while others keep it simple with just a spooky accessory or a touch of scary makeup.
What About Decoration?
While shops, bars or cafés might decorate for the occasion, don’t expect the streets of Paris to be covered in black and orange. Some bakeries or cafés might even serve some special Halloween pastries, so you might find some macaron with a spooky design of a choux with a witch hat!

Halloween and “All Saints Day”
La Toussaint is a solemn Catholic holiday that is celebrated on the first day of November, honoring all saints and, more broadly, loved ones who have passed away. Families traditionally visit cemeteries, bring flowers (especially chrysanthemums), and attend mass.
What’s the link with Halloween?
Halloween happens the day before All Saint’s day, so French people tend to associate the two. Because they’re back-to-back, Halloween sometimes feels like the “lighthearted pre-party” before the serious day of remembrance.

Happy Halloween!
Halloween is still an emerging holiday in France, and people enjoy getting into the spooky spirit throughout October. So if you’re in Paris on October 31st, you’ll probably encounter a zombie or vampire on the street.
And if you’re looking for some spooky activities to do in Halloween in Paris, check out our spooky Halloween tour!