As Halloween approaches, many associate the night of October 31st with spooky costumes, trick-or-treating, and carved pumpkins. However, in the Aragón region of Spain, particularly in the Pyrenees, there exists a much older and unique tradition: La Noche de las Almetas (The Night of the Souls).

While Halloween’s roots lie in ancient Celtic celebrations, La Noche de las Almetas is deeply connected to local folklore and customs. In Aragón, the evening of October 31st and the following day, All Saints’ Day, is a time dedicated to honoring the dead, connecting with ancestral spirits, and passing down age-old legends from generation to generation.

A Night for Remembering and Reflecting

Unlike the commercialized festivities of Halloween, La Noche de las Almetas is a more solemn event, though still shrouded in mystery. On this night, it is believed that the souls of the departed, known as “almetas,” wander the earth. Villagers light candles and bonfires to guide them on their journey back to the afterlife, ensuring no soul loses its way.

Across many towns in the Pyrenees, people gather to tell stories of ghosts and spirits. These tales, filled with superstition and magic, often focus on the souls of those who died tragically or left behind unfinished business.

Traditions That Endure

Throughout the region, locals speak of “Nueit d’Animas,” the area’s own version of All Hallows’ Eve. On this night, families leave doors and windows open, symbolically inviting the almetas into their homes for a short visit. In certain towns, you’ll also find skull-shaped lanterns carved from pumpkins or gourds. Similar to jack-o’-lanterns, they serve as a tribute to the dead rather than just a decoration.

As modern Halloween traditions continue to spread, efforts are still made to preserve these ancient customs. Schools, cultural associations, and families work tirelessly to ensure La Noche de las Almetas remains alive, passing its stories and rituals to younger generations.

A Celebration of Heritage

For those traveling to Aragón in late October, witnessing La Noche de las Almetas provides a unique glimpse into a centuries-old tradition. It’s an opportunity to experience the magic of the Pyrenees, with its mystical landscapes and deep-rooted folklore.

While Halloween may dominate much of the world, in the Pyrenees, October 31st is still a night focused on honoring the past, remembering loved ones, and keeping the fires of tradition burning bright.