In the southern hemisphere, spring is in full swing by October 31, and the days are rapidly growing longer and brighter...

In the southern hemisphere, spring is in full swing by October 31, and the days are rapidly growing longer and brighter. This does not mesh well with the traditional Celtic spirit of Halloween , which relies on an atmosphere of the encroaching darkness of winter and the turning of the leaves.

Halloween has gained some recognition in Australia and New Zealand , largely due to American media influences, with many young families in Australia enjoying the tradition. In 2006, costume shops reported a rise in sales on Halloween -themed costumes, on October 31, 2006 and have reported a steady increase on October 31, 2007.

On Halloween night, horror films and horror-themed TV episodes are traditionally aired, and currently, Halloween private parties are more commonly held than actual "trick-or-treating", however both are still observed. Trick or treating is generally only done in the trick-or-treater's neighbourhood.