Macau experienced short bursts of rain on Saturday evening, while Tropical Cyclone Standby Signal No. 1, and later, Warning Signal No. 3, were hoisted throughout the day. But the weather did not stop Macau’s many young trick-or-treaters* as they gathered and went around Calçada da Igreja de São Lázaro (瘋堂斜巷) and Praça do Tap Seac (塔石廣場).
With the streets crowded with many revellers, kids, teenagers and adults, celebrating Halloween**, it was not uncommon to see ghosts and ghouls conversing and exchanging sweets with superheroes or popular anime characters throughout the night. Strangers were not strangers for long as friendships were formed over things like the admiration for one another’s costumes, excitement over their favourite characters running along with them and, of course, the trading of sweets. Many kids were overjoyed as they excitedly yelled out the words “trick r’ treat” to others, many of whom, I assumed, were heading to or back from the two-day “Halloween Albergue SCM”, which celebrated its 10th edition this weekend and featured various activities.
I accompanied my goddaughter, who firmly chose to be a pumpkin this year, and as she joined a unique crew of skeletons, princesses, dinosaurs and vampires, among other creative trick-or-treaters, I was again able to see just how alive Halloween is in Macau.
I also saw that the day wasn’t just about the celebration’s typical horror or spooky aspects, nor was it only about youngsters receiving sweets and being able to dress up as different characters. Looking beyond all of that, there was a certain, undeniable warmth to be found as well.
Many families were out that night, smiling as they went around and spent time with their kids, many of whom carried a sense of excitement and happiness that neither a costume or mask could hide. There were instances when it wasn’t the colourful outfit or creative trick-or-treat pail that stood out to me, but just the joy and warmth that several families exuded and shared as they were brought together. At the same time, I saw many parents actively encouraging their kids to go up to others to make friends and share sweets with them. It didn’t matter who you were or if you spoke a different language. It was a day to be around people and, hopefully, make new friends. More importantly, it was a time to enjoy Halloween.
*Trick-or-treating is a traditional Halloween custom for children and adults in some countries. During the evening of Halloween, on October 31, people in costumes travel from house to house, asking for treats with the phrase “trick or treat”. -Source: Wikipedia
**Halloween, a Scottish word, is observed on the eve of All Hallows’ Day, October 31, in many, mostly Anglophone countries.
The local community celebrates Halloween at Calçada da Igreja de São Lázaro (瘋堂斜巷) and Praça do Tap Seac (塔石廣場) between Saturday and Sunday evening. – Photos: Rui Pastorin
