Melbourne: November 7, 2012

Melbourne Cup Day

"The race that stops a nation"

Public holiday

Purpose:
A reason to dress up and go out with your friends to ravage the city with alcohol flowing through your veins. Showcase style and flare.

Theme:
Fashion, hats and fascinators.

Date:
First Tuesday of every November

History:
Began as a posh event for the rich to gather and watch the horses race around the track. Eventually it developed in to a social event for people from all social classes to gather and see who was the most fashionable. Crowds would enjoy champagne and canapés.

Halloween

"Trick or Treat"

Secular Holiday

Purpose:
A reason to dress up and go out with your friends to ravage the city with alcohol flowing through your veins. To showcase your creativity through costume. Requires dedication for the truly inspired.

Theme:
Anything your heart desires and that your mind can create. Or slutty. Preferably the first.

Date:
October 31

History:
Began as a day for the masses to light bonfires in costume and ward off bad spirits, which later became a day to celebrate saints and martyrs. Now it is a joyous occasion for the young to go from house to house to get treats from their neighbours and for the adults to showcase creativity in social settings of all types.

Take your pick, but I still think Halloween is a way better way to spend time and energy towards creativity and social gatherings. 

Good effort Australia, but you'll never beat North American when it comes to dressing up.