If you are looking for a way to escape the Halloween festivities this year then you could find that heading north of the border to Scotland provides a refreshing change.
October 31st is the Celtic New Year and you will find a host of lively celebrations taking place across the country, but particularly in Edinburgh.
Also known as Samhuinn, the event attracts crowds from all over - and you could make your experience even more authentic by finding Scottish castles for rent.
Imagine enjoying a parade lit by fire torches and a spectacular pyrotechnic display in the heart of Edinburgh and then carrying the atmosphere back with you to your accommodation in a castle.
Running the length of the Royal Mile, the Beltane Fire Society arranges the procession each year and you are sure to be dazzled by the bright displays and tricks as well as the colourful costumes.
In keeping with Samhuinn tradition, the last Homecoming dance of the summer is performed to mark the occasion.
The Celtic New Year festivities originally took place to mark the end of summer and coming of winter and this dance is a representation of the changing seasons.
Characters dressed as summer and winter battle it out in the vibrant dance, before winter eventually triumphs.
However, all is not lost because a medicine man heals summer, ensuring that light and spring will return once again.
Although many of the current festivities are all about fun, the event is also said to mark the day of the dead.
According to Celtic legend, the end of October was a time to pay your respects to those who had died during the previous 12 months and see them depart for the spirit world.
For families or big groups of friends the perfect way to enjoy Samhuinn could be by staying in mansions in Scotland.
Wrap up warm to take in the excitement of the parade and then return to your historic accommodation where you can enjoy the atmosphere and each other's company.