In any case, this is what Pierre-Alexandre Billiet, economist and CEO of Gondola, a magazine specializing in the distribution sector, says. “We have seen a stabilization of consumption compared to Halloween for 10 years, a form of installation in the landscape“, explains the specialist. “Halloween is discussed, from an ethical point of view, in public debate, particularly on its relationship with children. It’s a sign that this party is really established“, he adds.
“A little celebration of overconsumption”
Billiet notes, in commerce, what he describes as a downsizingan overall decline in quality. “We see that Halloween survives thanks to one aspect: its ‘inexpensive party‘ side. It’s mostly plastic brol, sorry for the term“, says the CEO of Gondola.”October 31 has become a small celebration of overconsumption, without much room for crafts“.
A sign of this “hyperconsumption” linked to Halloween, small parties at home are now often replaced by big events, which are always full. In Walibi, where Halloween is a real annual event, the nights are always sold out, and the public certainly does not shy away from it. “There is no decline in interest“, reports Adèle Moreau, spokesperson for the amusement park. “On the contrary, last year, we had a fairly exceptional year, where all our nights were sold out. And we are on the same trend this year“, she explains.
Halloween evenings in Brussels
Hangar, a Brussels group specializing in events, launched into Halloween evenings four years ago. They attract more people to their events every year. “We expect 8,000 people over two evenings, October 31 and November 1. This was a good slot to take, as many people want to go out for Halloween“, relates Cameron Heal, co-founder of the Hangar. Although disguises are not obligatory, the organizers see more people taking part in the game every year. “In our country, everyone is free to do what they want, we will never force you to dress up.“.
By now being refocused on the “experience” side, Halloween therefore still exists in Belgium, and many will celebrate it in one way or another on October 31.