Although Halloween isn’t traditionally celebrated in Switzerland, Zürich has embraced the spirit with a variety of events, from ghost tours to themed parties. Here’s your guide to enjoying Halloween in Zürich, with savvy Swiss tips to keep it budget-friendly!
1. Zürich Ghost Walk
Get into the Halloween spirit with a spooky walking tour of Zürich’s Old Town. Learn about eerie legends, ghostly encounters, and haunted spots as you wander the historic streets with a guide who knows all the spooky stories.
Savvy Swiss Tip: If you’re with a group, ask about group discounts to lower the cost. Or, if you’re feeling brave, find a free self-guided audio tour for a DIY ghost walk through the Old Town.
2. Halloween Parties at Bars and Clubs
Many bars and clubs in Zürich host Halloween-themed parties, complete with costume contests, themed drinks, and spooky decor. Places like Mascotte Club, Plaza Club, and Kanzlei Club often throw Halloween events, with music, dancing, and a lively crowd.
Savvy Swiss Tip: Buy tickets in advance to avoid higher door prices. If you’re not keen on paying for entry, check out smaller bars hosting free Halloween gatherings or happy hours with themed drinks for a festive yet low-cost evening.
3. Pumpkin Patch Visit at Jucker Farm
If you’re looking for a daytime Halloween activity, head to Jucker Farm, just outside of Zürich. This farm is famous for its autumn pumpkin displays and has a seasonal pumpkin festival where you can pick up pumpkins, enjoy pumpkin-themed treats, and take great photos among giant sculptures made of pumpkins.
Savvy Swiss Tip: Bring your own snacks to keep costs low and enjoy a scenic picnic. Admission is free, but pumpkins and treats are extra, so budget accordingly!
4. Explore the Spooky Side of Kunsthaus Zürich
For art lovers, head to Kunsthaus Zürich to appreciate eerie and dark-themed artworks that can add a Halloween flair to your day. You can explore pieces that invoke mystery and even plan your visit around any special exhibits that delve into spooky themes.
Savvy Swiss Tip: Admission is free on Wednesdays, so plan your visit midweek for a cost-free art experience. Plus, many art museums offer student discounts, so remember to bring your student ID if applicable.
5. Costume Shopping and Thrifting at Caritas or BrockiLand
If you need a costume, skip the expensive Halloween stores and head to a thrift shop like Caritas or BrockiLand. You can find affordable clothing and accessories to put together a creative costume on a budget, and thrifting is a sustainable way to celebrate!
Savvy Swiss Tip: Look for simple pieces that you can use as part of a costume and then repurpose later. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also have a unique costume no one else is wearing!
6. Family-Friendly Halloween at the Zoo
The Zürich Zoo often hosts Halloween-themed activities that are fun for families, like animal feedings, spooky decorations, and pumpkin-carving events. It’s a great way for families with kids to celebrate Halloween in a more relaxed setting.
Savvy Swiss Tip: Bring your own snacks and drinks to avoid pricey concessions. If you’re a frequent visitor, consider a family membership pass, which offers unlimited access for a year and can save you money over multiple visits.
7. Halloween Movie Night at Kosmos Cinema
Some cinemas, like Kosmos in Zürich, may host Halloween-themed movie nights with horror film screenings or classics to get you in the spooky spirit. Whether you prefer cult classics or newer releases, a Halloween movie night is a cozy, budget-friendly option.
Savvy Swiss Tip: Go for a matinee screening, as tickets are often cheaper than evening showings. Also, skip the concessions and bring your own treats for a low-cost movie experience.
8. Trick-or-Treat and Pumpkin Trail in Rapperswil-Jona
If you don’t mind a short train ride, head to Rapperswil-Jona for a Halloween “Pumpkin Trail.” This family-friendly activity includes trick-or-treating along a safe, guided trail with pumpkin decorations and treats for kids.
Savvy Swiss Tip: Bring reusable bags for your treats, and if traveling by train, buy a ZVV group ticket if you’re going with friends or family to save on transportation.
9. DIY Haunted House and Costume Party
Gather a few friends and host your own Halloween party at home or in a rented space. Create a haunted house atmosphere with dim lighting, spooky music, and simple DIY decorations. Have a costume contest with a small prize for the best costume!
Savvy Swiss Tip: Make it a potluck and ask everyone to bring a spooky snack or drink to keep costs low. DIY decorations from recycled materials can add extra ambiance without the cost.
10. Halloween Crafting Workshop
Some art studios or community centers in Zürich offer Halloween crafting workshops where you can make decorations, carve pumpkins, or create spooky crafts. It’s a fun, hands-on activity for kids and adults alike.
Savvy Swiss Tip: Check local community boards or social media for free workshops or crafting events. If you prefer to DIY, gather supplies at a thrift store or budget shop and create your own crafts at home.
Halloween in Zürich may not be traditional, but there are plenty of ways to celebrate on a budget! With these savvy Swiss tips, you can experience the spooky side of Zürich affordably, whether you’re exploring the city’s haunted spots, enjoying a movie night, or hitting up themed parties. Enjoy a fun and wallet-friendly Halloween in Zürich!
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