Lonely Planet Insider

We asked our global community of staff and authors “Where is your favorite place to celebrate Halloween?” Here are the results:

1. At home, wherever that is!
I like to see the little kids who ring my bell for free candy and their expressions when I give them sugary treats. –Sabrina Dalbesio, Lonely Planet Staff

Nothing replaces the experience of going out in costume, getting cold, and bringing home a bag full of mysterious treats! –Tim Hornyak, Lonely Planet Author

2. Tie between New York City and San Francisco
While San Francisco is a costume kind of town all year round, people really go all out at Halloween and everyone dresses up! The humor and individualism of Halloween costumes always bring a smile to my face and make me think "God I love this town". –Aimee Goggins, Lonely Planet Staff

During the day it's all about the kids' parades in Central Park - darling mini-Manhattanites, all under the age of 10, marching about in their costumes while leaves fall from the trees - it's enough to make your heart melt. The freaks come out at night - all of NYC turns into one huge bacchanalian event on Halloween. –Jennye Garibaldi, Lonely Planet Staff

3. Salem, Massachusetts
The celebration lasts all month long, with spooky walking tours, haunted houses, witches balls, pumpkin carving parties and costume parades. On Halloween night, there is a huge outdoor costume party with bands and DJs playing live music. –Mara Vorhees, Lonely Planet Author