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Autumn Traditions Around the World

ASMALLWORLD

For some, autumn signifies the end of summer and time to start preparing for the Halloween period. The days become shorter and the weather usually colder. However, autumn also historically signifies the harvest period, marked by large gatherings and celebrations. Our editors have rounded up some of our favourite autumn traditions globally.

Pumpkin Festival, USA

This festive celebration takes place in pumpkin farms across the country. Typically occurring towards the end of October, it represents the seasonal pumpkin harvest period. Local communities are encouraged to take part in pumpkin carving and decorating events, while the year’s harvest is displayed amongst the jovial celebrations.

PUMPKIN FESTIVAL, USA

Nuit Blanche, France

Taking place in cities across the country, this annual nighttime arts festival enables the general public to access arts and cultural institutions for free. There are usually light shows and one-off events, with the intention of bringing communities together to celebrate local creativity and innovation.

Asogli Te Za, Ghana

This festival – also known as Asogli Yam Festival – is celebrated annually in Ghana to mark the harvest Ete in Ewe. The celebrations represent the miracle cultivation of the yam, which was said to have occurred when a farmer discovered the yam during a famine. 

Chuseok Harvest Festival, South Korea

Chuseok occurs during the Autumn months of September and October each year. Amongst cooking the traditional Songpyeon rice cakes, communities gather during this time to give thanks to their ancestors, pay their respects to deceased loved ones, and take part in traditional games and costume-wearing.

CHUSEOK HARVEST FESTIVAL, SOUTH KOREA

Oktoberfest, Germany

The two-week festival, which originated in Munich, Germany, takes place each year from the end of September to early October. Dating back to the early 19th century, the festival initially celebrated the marriage of the crown prince of Bavaria and Princess Therese von Sachen-Hildburghausen, but has since grown to a worldwide celebration of Bavarian culture – including beers, brats and bustiers.

HOTEL BAYERISCHER HOF

© Daniel Schvarcz

As an ASMALLWORLD Member, you will have access to a number of hotels situated just a stone’s throw from a number of autumn celebrations. One of our most sought-after destinations includes the Hotel Bayerischer Hof in Munich, Germany, where you can cosy up beside the wood burner with a hot beverage in the lounge, enjoy a nourishing Bavarian dish in the onsite restaurant, or head out for the day to explore this magnificent city.

The Ritz-Carlton in Boston, USA, is another highly rated hotel that offers guests an all-American home-away-from-home in the heart of Boston. Try one of the hotel’s ten signature martinis in the fireside bar, or simply enjoy panoramic views of the vivid autumnal surroundings from the hotel’s large guest rooms.

Of course, you can browse all of these hotels and more on the ASMALLWORLD Collection.

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