Catholic families around the world are being encouraged to mark the eve of All Saints’ Day by celebrating “Holywins,” a Christian alternative to Halloween that highlights the beauty of holiness and the call to sainthood.
The idea of Holywins, meaning “holiness wins,” first began in Paris in 2002 as a way to redirect the focus of October 31 from fear and darkness to joy and faith. Since then, it has gained popularity in Catholic communities across Europe, Latin America, and beyond, including parish and family celebrations.
The celebration encourages families, especially children, to honor the saints in creative and joyful ways. Catholic News Agency recently shared four simple ways to make the occasion special at home. Families can start by dressing up as their favorite saints instead of scary characters, using homemade or simple costumes to make the activity fun and meaningful.
Sharing themed foods is another suggestion. Parents and children can prepare treats inspired by saints or Christian symbols, such as cookies shaped like halos or cupcakes decorated with crosses, as a reminder that holiness is sweet and joyful.
Families are also encouraged to play games and do crafts that teach about the lives of saints. This could include storytelling, dramatizations, or even a “saint bingo” game that helps children learn about the virtues and good works of holy men and women.
Another idea is to decorate a small home altar with images of saints and spend time praying together. Lighting candles, placing flowers, and saying a family rosary can make the celebration a moment of reflection and gratitude for those who have gone before us in faith.
Church leaders emphasize that Holywins is not about rejecting Halloween completely but about giving it a new meaning rooted in faith and joy. The focus is on celebrating the victory of life over death and reminding everyone that sainthood is not only for a few but a universal call for all Christians.
In many parishes, especially those with active children’s programs, the evening before All Saints’ Day has become an opportunity for faith-based gatherings filled with songs, prayer, and family fun. Activities are designed to inspire young people to see holiness as something attainable in their daily lives.
The message of Holywins is simple but powerful: holiness is joyful, and heaven is our final goal. Families who celebrate together on the eve of All Saints’ Day reaffirm that message and teach their children that faith and joy can triumph over fear and darkness.