Celebrating Halloween with family in Korea
Halloween characters from Everland mingle with citizens in Myeong-dong, central Seoul, in this September 2018 file photo. / Korea Times file
By Hallie Bradley
Celebrating Halloween in Korea is bound to be a bit different as most people would expect. But there are a few events and spots to check out if finding Halloweeny vibes similar to back home is the goal.
Some years ago, expat and multicultural families started meeting up in parks around Seoul in order to give their kids the opportunity to trick-or-treat in a fashion as similar to their home countries as possible. In a country where walking up and knocking on doors and saying “boo” isn't the norm, these events are definitely the next best option. If you are in a parents' group on social media, maybe they have plans for one.
: First Garden is a great spot to take the kids out in Paju if you just want to enjoy the autumn ambiance with a hint of Halloween and fun for the kids. On Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 27 and 28, there will be facepainting and Halloween experience programs. If you've forgotten your costume, there are capes and hats available to borrow as well.
: While the title may throw you off, the event promoters say the festival is 100 percent family friendly. GKBF is an outdoor festival that features 100 craft beers from 20 local and international breweries. Sunday is family day and there will even be a family/children costume contest with awesome prizes. Dress up in costume and enjoy international food and live music, and then try to win a stay at the new Seoul Dragon City Hotel.
: Everland is often touted in parent groups as hosting the best Halloween festival of the lot. This year the events will be on until Nov. 11. Enjoy the elaborate decorations, fun ghost and costume parades and musicals. Get into the spirit by eating up food made with special spooky faces.
: This year Seoul Land is hosting the Monster Balloon City until Nov. 4. Take the kids in costume, or they can rent there. Children can get their faces painted, make their own monster mask and enjoy some special monster performances, as well as monster balloons standing over 10 meters tall.
: If staying indoors is a high priority, then Lotte World is a great option. The indoor theme park is a manageable size for families with small children and there are fun performances and parades for children to enjoy with scary witches and friendly ghosts.
Hallie Bradley is a writer based in Seoul and also has
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First Garden Happy Halloween Festival