Every October for the past 30 years, numerous French students throughout Canada have been singing a popular Halloween song called “C’est l’Halloween.” This catchy tune, filled with spooky imagery like witches and ghosts, serves as a fun and educational tool for kids learning the French language. One of the highlights of the song is the simple two-word chorus, “C’est l’Halloween,” which translates to “It’s Halloween,” and allows children to enthusiastically shout “HEY!”
Despite the song’s popularity among Canadian students, the artist behind it remains relatively unknown. The song was penned in 1981 by a dedicated teacher named Matt Maxwell, who later transitioned from teaching to a successful 15-year career as a children’s performer. Maxwell shared that “C’est l’Halloween” was one of his earliest French compositions, inspired by the Halloween spirit and his students’ enthusiasm for the holiday.
Maxwell’s debut album, “Comment ca va?,” where the song was featured, was recorded three years after its creation. Following the album’s release, Maxwell decided to pursue a full-time career in children’s entertainment, performing at numerous festivals and school events. Despite some initial criticism from certain groups, Maxwell stood by his creation, emphasizing that Halloween is a cultural celebration that should be embraced.
Over the years, “C’est l’Halloween” has remained a beloved song in schools not only in Canada but also in Europe and Australia. While Maxwell no longer performs, he continues to create music for children through his involvement in AIM Language Learning, a program utilized by hundreds of thousands of students. The legacy of “C’est l’Halloween” lives on through interactive stories and updated versions, ensuring that new generations can enjoy the Halloween classic.
