Halloween Hunting in Downtown Córdoba

I’ve never been a fan of crowds — not even back home in the States. But after practically hiding out at home since 2023, I finally had a reason big enough to face downtown Córdoba City again: Halloween.

Over the years, this spooky holiday has grown in popularity in Argentina, and as a lifelong fan of all things horror, I couldn’t resist the urge to hunt for Halloween goodies to make 2025 a little creepier.

The Mission Begins: Charging My SUBE Card

Before I could head downtown, I had to charge my SUBE card — Argentina’s transportation card. Until recently, the SUBE was exclusive to Buenos Aires, which is where I originally got mine during one of my many visits. Now, Córdoba has joined the club.

Before SUBE, locals used the Red Bus card, and while it’s still accepted, the SUBE is definitely the more modern option. I didn’t notice a huge difference while riding, but the online features are super handy. You can register your card, check your balance and recent trips, and even report it if it’s lost or stolen — something I wish existed years ago.

My First Stop: Buenos Aires Avenue

Once my card was topped up, I set off on my spooky mission. Along the way, I snapped some photos of the city — which I’ll be sharing here in case any of you are curious about visiting Córdoba or are thinking of moving here.

My first stop was Buenos Aires Avenue (no, not the capital city — just the name of the street). I was heading to a store called Cotillón Chialvo, but got completely sidetracked by another party shop called Cotillon Puerto Alegria.

Inside, I found all kinds of Halloween treasures — masks straight out of Friday the 13th, Terrifier, and other creepy classics. They had witch hats, fake blood, cobwebs, and enough spooky accessories to make any Halloween lover lose their mind (and their budget).

I ended up buying these masks along with a witch hat and a small vial of fake blood (not pictured).

Then Came Cotillón Chialvo

When I finally made it to Cotillón Chialvo, I was blown away! Not only were there life-size Halloween figures greeting you at the door, but the inside was like walking into a mini haunted carnival — aisles of masks, costumes, decorations, candies, and even a baking section with edible eyes, bat-shaped cookie cutters, and other eerie treats.

Let’s just say I went a little overboard. I’ll share some of the items I bought below, but… yeah, my wallet is currently resting in peace.

Fake blood bag, a bloody apron, skeleton straws, Halloween paper plates, Halloween napkins, edible eyes, a bag of marshmallows and a bat shaped cookie cutter

I also bought this box of Halloween gummy candies to add to my collection of spooky treats

The Yummy Terror box comes with 12 bags containing skull or bone shaped gummies

Facing the Crowds

Since I don’t go out often, I also decided to set my social anxiety aside and explore the city that’s been my home for the past 13 years. Easier said than done.

As I got closer to Patio Olmos, one of Córdoba’s main shopping malls, the crowds thickened. At one point, I had to duck into a random store just to breathe for a minute before continuing my journey.

I paid a visit to Almacen de Mario, a store in Cordoba that sells international food items. I went inside to see if there was anything new. Unfortunately, all they had that I was interested in was Campbell Soup, but not for 12,000 Argentine pesos a can.

The State of the City

Along the way, I recorded clips and stitched them into a short video I’ll share below. Honestly, Córdoba hasn’t changed much over the years — though I’ve noticed more closed shops and empty storefronts.

Despite the recent bailout Argentina received from the U.S., the economy is still struggling. Prices keep climbing, and unfortunately, homelessness and crime seem more visible than ever.

Wrapping It Up

Even with the crowds, the noise, and my anxiety constantly whispering, “Go home,” I’m glad I pushed myself to go downtown. It reminded me that the city hasn't changed and I haven’t missed out on much — and that’s oddly comforting.

Thank goodness for the party stores and their Halloween spirit. 

I’ll be sharing how we celebrated Halloween 2025 right after the 31st — spooky photos included!