This blog post was written by our student ambassador Navhya, a MBA student at the Estonian Business School.
Pumpkin spice lattes are back, and the hunt for the perfect Halloween outfit has begun!
Last Halloween, my friends and I went to a few parties, tried on all sorts of hats and debated costume ideas. Eventually, my bestie and I landed on one we both loved.
Two Sides of the Same Coin
Our inspiration? The golden chocolate coins of Kalev, Estonia’s much-loved chocolate brand. He wore one side in the colours of the Indian flag, while I represented Estonia in blue, black and white. Two countries, two flags and one coin.
We partied the night away with friends from all over the world. Everyone turned up, everyone joined in, and we had a brilliant time. That is one thing I have come to love about being an international student in Estonia. There are so many chances to meet people beyond your classroom and experience things you might never have tried back home. And you do not have to be the life of the party. You can be low-key, enjoy the company, wear a simple costume or go all out. There is room for everyone. Sometimes, all it takes to make new friends in a new country is to say yes to an invitation.
A little Estonian trivia
Halloween is not the only autumn tradition worth knowing about in Estonia.
While we are wrapping up the fifteen days of Pitru Paksha (a period dedicated to remembering & honouring our ancestors) in India, Estonia observes Hingedepäev, or All Souls’ Day, on 2 November. It is a time to remember loved ones who have passed away. Lighting candles is a familiar tradition.
Estonia also has its own days for dressing up. On Mardipäev, 10 of November, and Kadripäev, 25 of November, people traditionally dress in disguise, visit homes, sing songs and share good wishes.
So, if you enjoy costumes, October is not your only opportunity. Estonia has a few more surprises up its sleeve!
Still looking for a Halloween costume?
Not everyone wants to spend a fortune on an outfit they will wear once. Here are three places to try in Tallinn.
Maskeraad- Costume rentals from €10 to €38 for one to three days. Adult deposits start at €30.
Location: Pirni 5, Tallinn.
Must Luik- Costumes, wigs, hats, masks and accessories.
Location: Lastekodu 18, Tallinn.
Paavli Kaltsukas- For second-hand finds and a DIY costume that will not break your student budget.
Location: Paavli 6, Tallinn.
My student tip? Start with clothes you already own, add an interesting accessory and have fun with your makeup. You do not need an expensive costume to enjoy Halloween.
Where Tallinn gets spooky
Once you have your outfit sorted, the next question is where to spend the evening. Here are a few events to look into this year.
- Halloween Park, Tallinn Song Festival Grounds- 17 October to 1 November, 17:00 to 22:00. Expect pumpkins, spooky characters, a haunted house and light displays. Adult tickets are listed at €13. Explore Halloween Park
- Halloween at Noblessner- 31 October, from 23:00. Three party spaces, DJs and costumes for a big night outFind event details and tickets
- FÖPP Halloween at Gläm Telliskivi- 30 October, 23:00 to 04:00. DJs, costumes and a night out in Tallinn’s creative district. Entry is for those aged 18 and over. See event details
Check the event pages before heading out for the latest timings and ticket availability.
A little Halloween spirit on campus
Halloween is not just about nightclubs. Student communities organise themed quizzes and get-togethers, too. TalTech, for example, hosted a Halloween quiz on 20 October this year. If you study in Tallinn, keep an eye on the TalTech Student Union events page.
For international students, ESN Tallinn is another place to look for social events, cultural activities and opportunities to meet students from different universities.
You never know who you might meet at a quiz or a casual get-together. Sometimes, a small event can turn into a friendship that lasts long after the semester ends.
So, what will you be this Halloween?
Whether you are a new student, an international student finding your feet or simply someone who loves Halloween, there is plenty to enjoy. You do not need the perfect costume or a big group of friends. Just show up, join in if you feel like it and see where the evening takes you.
What are your plans for Halloween this year? Something spooky, something funny, a creative costume or a quiet evening with friends? Last year, we were two sides of the same chocolate coin. This year, we shall see!
