A Halloween Like No Other
If you have children in San Miguel de Allende, you already know how beautifully international this town is. Kids here come from all over the world—British, Scandinavian, South African, American, Mexican, and more. Holidays in San Miguel are like putting a tradition into a cultural blender—you never quite know what will come out, and that’s exactly what makes it so fun.
Halloween has really found its footing in San Miguel over the past few years. What started as a niche celebration has blossomed into an eclectic mash-up of traditions: think costume contests, pumpkin carving, Trick or Treating, and even the occasional piñata—all blended with the spirit and style of Día de los Muertos.
A few years ago, I was asked by parents in my daughter’s class to host a Halloween party. At the time, I had mostly set Halloween aside in favor of Día de los Muertos, which I had fallen in love with. But when your child is the only American in class and everyone’s asking for a Halloween experience… well, how could I say no?
We rallied our amazing neighbors—a mix of Mexican and American families—and put together a Halloween block party to remember. Here’s how you can do it too!
10 Steps to Throwing a Halloween Block Party
Recruit Your Neighbors
Start by finding neighbors who are willing to participate in Trick or Treating. Each participating household should supply their own candy. A few days in advance, give them a headcount of expected kids.
Tip: We used calavera (skull) door hangers to indicate which homes were “in.”
Choose a Central Party Zone
Pick a large outdoor area where kids can run off their sugar highs safely. Make sure there’s room for the piñata and other party activities.
Go Potluck Style
Ask families to bring a dish to share. Provide food tables and make sure there’s seating for neighbors and guests. Everyone—kids and adults alike—should feel welcome.
Schedule Trick or Treat Time
Plan for Trick or Treating to start at sunset. Having a microphone or speaker helps to make announcements clearly—especially in a bilingual crowd.
Start the Party Right
Kick off with dinner, drinks, a bouncy house, and spooky music. This gives everyone time to gather, settle in, and get into the Halloween spirit.
Plan Fun & Games
Keep the kids engaged with classic party games:
Costume contest
Cake walk
Musical chairs
Bobbing for apples
Small prizes or ribbons make for fun keepsakes!
Smash That Piñata (Before Sunset)
Schedule the piñata just before dark. It keeps the little ones active and excited without needing extra lighting.
Make Announcements in English & Spanish
Before Trick or Treating begins, gather everyone and announce which houses are participating—and what the calavera door hangers signify. Be sure to explain in both English and Spanish.
Let the Trick or Treating Begin!
At dusk, send the kids off! Remind parents to collect their dishes and party gear before heading home.
End with Party Favors & Clean-Up
Hand out party favors as a thank-you for joining the fun. Then, it’s time to start the (massive) clean-up. Bonus points if your neighbors help!
Embracing Halloween—San Miguel Style
Hosting a Halloween block party here isn’t just about candy and costumes—it’s about bringing people together. It’s a celebration of cultures, community, and creating new traditions in a town that thrives on them.
So if you’re ready to take the plunge into spooky season and build some beautiful memories for your kids (and your neighbors!), now you’ve got the roadmap. And if you need a hand pulling it all together—we’re here to help! From decorations and rentals to music and custom tablescapes, we’ve got you covered.
Happy Haunting from San Miguel!
