Halloween is great, we’re not denying that. But long before trick-or-treating became part of our calendar, Spain was already observing the night of the dead. Some of these traditions date back centuries, and we think they’re the perfect excuse to pack your bags. So, if you’re wondering what to do for All Saints’ Day, here are four breaks to inspire you.

In Alcalá de Henares, All Saints’ Day is celebrated with poetry, impossible love affairs, duels and the occasional ghostly apparition. And it’s all thanks to Don Juan Tenorio, the play by José Zorrilla that returns to the stage every year around this time. After all, part of the story unfolds on All Saints’ Night. Recognised as a Festival of National Tourist Interest and celebrating its 40th edition this year, the performance will take place within the walled grounds of the Archbishop’s Palace on 31 October and 1 November, at 7.30 pm.

While you’re here, make the most of your visit and explore this UNESCO World Heritage city. Start with the University of Alcalá, which played a major role in earning the city its UNESCO status, before heading to Cervantes’ Birthplace Museum and the Corral de Comedias, one of Europe’s oldest surviving theatres. Wander through the arcaded streets of the historic centre and, before you leave, be sure to stop by Plaza de Cervantes.

Where to stay: Sercotel Encín Golf

As soon as autumn arrives, Barcelona begins to fill with the unmistakable aroma of roasting chestnuts. This is especially true as La Castañada approaches, a tradition rooted in All Saints’ Night, when families would gather to remember loved ones who had passed away while enjoying chestnuts, panellets (small sweet treats made with almonds, sugar and eggs, coated in pine nuts) and sweet potatoes. These energy-rich foods helped them stay awake through the night.

Over time, this custom evolved into a popular celebration that is still very much alive today. During the All Saints’ Day weekend (and, in some neighbourhoods, the days before and after), Barcelona’s streets come alive with roasted chestnut stalls and activities for all ages. There are workshops where you can learn to make panellets, storytelling sessions, dancing and even haunted attractions. It’s the perfect excuse to head outdoors, explore the city and discover how a centuries-old tradition continues to find new ways to bring people together.

Where to stay: Sercotel Rosellón, Sercotel Caspe and Sercotel Ámister Art Hotel

This celebration is often described as the Basque version of Halloween, although its origins actually predate the American tradition. It is said to have arrived in the Basque Country with the Celtic peoples, who marked the end of the harvest with Gau Beltza, meaning 'Black Night', through pagan rituals involving pumpkins, candles and offerings.

Today, this celebration, also known by some as Arimen Gaua (Night of Souls), is enjoying a revival. According to tradition, children would dress up in old clothes and sheets, carrying hollowed-out pumpkins with candles glowing inside. Their mission was to frighten people, yes, but also to guide the souls of the departed.

The celebrations reach their peak on the night of 31 October, although neighbourhoods across San Sebastián organise activities for all ages over several days. Expect hot chocolate gatherings, spooky walks, workshops, games and frightening tales told by local elders…

Where to stay: Sercotel Codina and Sercotel Europa San Sebastián

Just an hour from Zaragoza, Trasmoz has a reputation for being a cursed village. In fact, it is the only village in Spain to have been excommunicated, so it simply had to feature in our round-up of All Saints’ Day traditions, where the earthly world meets the mysterious.

Every year on 31 October, Trasmoz celebrates Luz de las Ánimas (Light of the Souls), a tradition honouring those who are no longer with us. Its most magical moment comes after nightfall, at around 7 pm, when the village switches off its usual street lighting and hundreds of candles and pumpkins illuminate its streets. This marks the start of the procession of the Blessed Souls, which sets off from the church and makes its way to the cemetery. There, prayers are offered for the souls of the departed and the traditional hymn Los gozos para las Ánimas benditas is sung once again. Afterwards, the mystery continues with the so-called Calles Animadas, a night-time trail for those brave enough to take it on.

Where to stay: Sercotel Plaza Feria