Karen Fahr - October 31, 2024

Halloween, a celebration known for its playful eeriness and creative costumes, is embraced by millions around the globe. However, beneath the surface of spooky festivities lies a cornucopia of peculiar laws and regulations that govern how the holiday is celebrated in various countries.

Whether you’re planning a Halloween getaway or simply curious about international traditions, exploring these unique legal quirks offers a deeper understanding of how diverse, and sometimes quirky, our global village can be when it comes to celebrating All Hallows’ Eve.

Anti-Zombie Law
Haiti, Caribbean Sea

There is a law on the books in Haiti that explains even if you successfully turn someone into a zombie, it is still considered murder. Article 246 states it is a crime if you drug someone, bury them as though they were dead, dig them up and then bring them back to life.

The French Say No to Clowns
Vendargues, France

In 2014, the French town of Vendargues banned people from dressing up as clowns for Halloween and for the entire month of November. The mayoral decree bans individuals and groups ages 13 and older dressed as clowns from the town’s streets and public spaces.

No Silly String
Hollywood, California, USA

No person is allowed to use silly string (and all other brands of aerosol string) between midnight on Halloween to noon the following day. City leaders came up with this rule after a few crazy Halloween street parties got a bit messy. City workers cleaning the streets complained about the huge mess.

The city eventually passed the Silly String ban in 2004.

Trick-or-Treating Curfew & Age Limit
Bathurst, New Brunswick, Canada

Bathurst law dictates that trick-or-treating must end at 8 p.m. and can only be done by those under the age of 17. Those caught with a “facial disguise” in public after curfew — like a zombie mask or witch’s veil — or anyone over 16 found roaming the streets for treats can be fined up to $200.

No Priests, Nuns, or Rabbis
Alabama, USA

In the state of Alabama, pretending to be a religious representative – priest, nun, or rabbi – is classified as a misdemeanor. This law is in effect not only on Halloween but the entire year! If you break this law, you could face a $500 fine and be sent to county jail for a year. Yikes!

Halloween Outlawed
Jordan

In Jordan, celebrating Halloween is completely prohibited. The government has taken a firm stance against the holiday, viewing it as contrary to local customs and traditions.

These quirky laws highlight how different regions approach Halloween celebrations with unique regulations that can catch revelers off guard.

We hope you have a safe and fun Halloween!

Editor’s Note: Originally published on October 29, 2020, this text has been updated to reflect current information.