From ghost-themed gatherings and costume contests to live performances and art displays, Dhaka has a packed programme of events as the city joins Halloween celebrations on 31 October.
Several venues across the capital are hosting activities that blend spooky entertainment with music, games and creative experiences. Although Halloween does not belong to Bengali tradition, the celebration has become increasingly visible in Bangladesh, particularly among young people influenced by global entertainment and social media.
One of the featured events, ‘Bhoot Choturdoshi’, is taking place at Jatra Biroti in Banani from 9am to 2pm. Inspired by supernatural elements in Bengali culture, the programme includes a ghost-hunting game, storytelling sessions drawing on Bhoot FM, tarot readings, face painting, children’s books and live music.
The ‘Halloween Night Party’ at Grill on the Skyline in Tongi runs from 6pm to 10pm. Visitors can expect a Monster BBQ buffet, a haunted cave, a horror film marathon, a costume competition, live music and gothic dance performances.
Mana Bay is also hosting ‘Bhoot Utshob’, a day-long celebration featuring spooky cosplay, horror dance performances, electronic dance music and a special attraction recreating a volcanic eruption.
The city’s cultural calendar also includes exhibitions. Artist Moni Majhi’s solo show, ‘Non-Duality’, opened at Alliance Française de Dhaka in Dhanmondi on 30 October. Running until 10 November, the exhibition is open daily from 3pm to 9pm. Through wood and different forms, Majhi explores her creative ideas and artistic expression.
Meanwhile, ‘The Fold Fest’ is bringing the art of origami into focus at Kun Creative Studio on Sonatongor Road. The exhibition, which began on 24 October, will continue until 11 November, with visiting hours from 5pm to 9pm. It showcases the creative possibilities of paper folding.
Music lovers can also head to Jatra Biroti for ‘Strange Hours’, scheduled to begin at 6pm. The event combines live performances, creative costumes and a spooky atmosphere. Level Five, Vintage Theory and several other bands are set to perform.
With parties, music and exhibitions taking place across different venues, this year’s Halloween programme reflects the growing presence of the celebration in Dhaka’s urban cultural scene.
