Where to celebrate Halloween in Touraine? Activities and tips

A few words about Halloween

Drawn from the Celtic traditions of Samhain, marking the passage from the light to the dark season, Halloween has evolved over time into a festival that is both religious and popular, dedicated to the saints and the dead. As autumn sets in, the nights get longer, temperatures drop and nature prepares for winter. Halloween then becomes a celebration that defies death, a festival where we play with darkness through legends like that of Jack-o’-Lantern. Jack-o’-Lantern, the main character of the festival, wanders aimlessly, illuminated by a pumpkin, symbolising the fight against the unknown. Around him, a frightening universe unfolds: bats, spiders, witches and, this year, colourful calaveras from Mexico. Get ready to shiver, because young and old alike are going to love this atmosphere… and if sweets are involved, you really shouldn’t miss out!

What to do for Halloween in Touraine

Here are some not-to-be-missed events at the region’s leisure sites, museums and châteaux:

The Aquarium de Touraine: immerse yourself in the Halloween atmosphere and try out the “Contagion” escape game during the holidays.
The château des Brétignolles: witches, skeletons and scary creatures await you for a… deadly experience!
The château de l’Islette: enjoy a Halloween treasure hunt and take part in biscuit workshops during the school holidays.
The château Gaillard: two trick-or-treating routes (under 7s and over 7s) and a monster-making workshop await you.
The pagoda of Chanteloup: fancy dress competition and reading of a horrific tale “The Ghosts of Chanteloup”.
The Prieuré Saint Cosme: a treasure hunt on the theme of “Denise Sorcière’s potion”, to be enjoyed with the whole family.
The Musée Balzac: watch the tale “Mistigris et la soupe à la citrouille” for a family thrill.
The Cité Rétro Mécanique Maurice Dufresne: experience a special Halloween Cluedo, an activity not to be missed!
The ferme pédagogique des Ani’Maurice: Halloween games for children aged 6 to 10.
The jardins de Valmer: celebrate Samaïn, the ancestor of Halloween, in a unique natural setting.
The château de la Bourdaisière: try the special Halloween underground escape game in the castle’s cellars.
The domaine de Candé: “big chills” and “little chills” trails for all the family, by reservation.
The château de Gizeux: immerse yourself in Scottish traditions with Celtic harp concerts, dances and fights.

The must-sees for Halloween in Touraine

Trick-or-treating and Halloween parties!

Don’t miss the festive events like the Halloween afterwork at Château d’Artigny, the Spooky Party by Glairewitch at Bateau Ivre in Tours, or the Chair de Poule evening at Abbaye de Cormery.Come and shiver!”

Finally, dance the night away at the Halloween costume ball at Château de Jallanges. An event not to be missed!