Halloween v Castanyada: Catalans prefer roasted chestnuts than only trick or treating

One of the most important cultural debates in Catalonia could be over. The Catalan government-funded survey agency, CEO, posed the question to residents if they preferred Halloween, or the traditional local festival Castanyada. 

The survey published on Friday morning revealed, aside from a prediction of the future winners of elections and the support for independence in the territory, that 49% of the respondents celebrate Castanyada on All Saints Day, November 1, while only 3% celebrate Halloween on the All-Saints eve.

The surprising figure, however, comes from the 27% of the respondents who say they combine Halloween and Castanyada, something which bakeries have already noticed as the traditional 'panellets' marzipan treats continue to be sold despite inflation. 

Young audience 

Celebrations vary depending on the age of the respondent, however, as those under 25 years and those between 35-49 prefer to combine Castanyada and Halloween. 

Meanwhile, those aged between 18-24 say Halloween has a little bit more importance, as 9% of the respondents say they enjoy the anglophone festivity.  

Those aged 50 and up mainly celebrate Castanyada (53%) and none take part in Halloween celebrations alone, while 8% take part in both events. 

La Castanyada v Halloween  

The Catalan ‘Castanyada’ draws its name from the seasonal roasted delicacy, la castanya, or chestnut. The autumnal feast not only revolves around the food but around the concept of family and friends.   

This get-together, which takes place as the weather gets colder, usually involves a meal, accompanied by a dry wine, where chestnuts are eaten alongside sweet potatoes and panellets. 

However, with the increasing impact of Anglophone culture, Halloween has become more popular in recent times, with many fearing La Castanyada could disappear. 

To learn more about the 'clash' between La Castanyada and Halloween, listen to our first Filling the Sink podcast episode, published in October 2020.