As the leaves start to change and the air turns crisp, fall heralds a season of celebration around the world. From Halloween to Thanksgiving, fall holidays are an exciting time for festive decorations.
In this guide, we'll explore fall holidays that are observed in both the United States and internationally, providing insights into their significance and traditions.
Whether you're looking to embrace the season or spice up your home decor, we've got you covered.
What Holidays Are in Fall?
While these fall holidays are prominently celebrated in the United States and Canada, it's worth noting that variations of these holidays exist in other countries around the world:
Halloween (October 31)
Halloween is a beloved holiday in the United States and beyond. Children and adults alike dress up in costumes to go trick-or-treating. Houses and lawns are decorated with spooky decor, including carved pumpkins known as Jack-o'-Lanterns.
Thanksgiving (November 23)
Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude and feasting in the United States. Families gather to share a traditional meal featuring roasted turkey, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie, among other dishes. By this time, houses are typically decorated with autumn decor like fall harvest wreaths.
Other Fall Holidays Around the World
Here are some cultural traditions that are celebrated internationally and observed in fall:
Bonfire Night in the United Kingdom (November 5)
The UK commemorates the thwarting of the Gunpowder Plot of 1605 with bonfires and fireworks. This holiday is also known as Guy Fawkes Day. It’s accompanied by delicious sausages topped with fried onions, ketchup, and mustard.
Chuseok in Korea (September 28-30)
Known as the Korean Thanksgiving, Chuseok is a three-day celebration that expresses gratitude for a bountiful harvest. It involves traditional foods like songpyeon (rice cake) and cultural activities.
Dia De Los Muertos in Mexico (November 2)
Dia De Los Muertos, translated as Day of the Dead, is a holiday that coincides with the Catholic All Souls' Day. It involves gathering to pray for departed loved ones. Decorations for graves are a key part of the preparations.
Diwali in India (November 12)
Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is celebrated for five days. It marks the Hindu New Year and involves decorating homes with lamps, candles, and colorful sand.
Festival of the Yams in Ghana (September)
The Festival of Yams holds great religious and economic significance in Ghana, with celebrations centered around thanking ancestors and gods for a prosperous yam harvest.
Mid-Autumn Festival or Moon Festival in Asia (September 29)
Celebrated in China, Vietnam, Korea, Japan, and Southeast Asia, the Mid-Autumn Festival focuses on family reunions, a reunion dinner, and the sharing of mooncakes.
Oktoberfest in Germany (September 16 - October 3)
Oktoberfest, renowned worldwide, is a 16- to 18-day celebration in Munich, featuring music, dance, and traditional German cuisine like sausages and pretzels.
Which Holidays Should You Decorate For?
The choice of which fall holidays to decorate for depends on your cultural background, personal preferences, and the desire to embrace the festive spirit of these occasions.
Many choose to decorate for Halloween with spooky, fun decorations, and then transition to Thanksgiving decor as the season progresses.
Exploring the traditions and significance of these holidays can help you incorporate unique decorations into your home.
When Should You Start Decorating?
The timing for fall holiday decorations varies depending on the holiday. Halloween decorations often start appearing in early October, while Thanksgiving decor typically emerges in November.
For international holidays like Diwali, the exact dates may vary each year, so it's essential to plan accordingly.
Conclusion: Holidays During Fall
As fall approaches, a world of diverse and vibrant celebrations beckons. From the beloved Halloween and Thanksgiving holidays, to international festivities like Oktoberfest, each holiday brings its unique charm and traditions.
Consider embracing the spirit of these fall holidays by adorning your home in cozy fall decor that creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere for all to enjoy.
Visit our website to shop home decor in preparation for the holiday season.