11 Halloween Festivals in the U.S. Families Should See
There’s no better time to celebrate than Halloween, and the U.S. offers some of the most exciting festivals for families. Whether you’re looking for a thrilling haunted experience or a fun day of trick-or-treating, these events have it all. The atmosphere is electric, filled with laughter and excitement. It’s the perfect chance to create lasting memories with your kids.
This post may contain affiliate links, which helps keep this content free. Please read our disclosure for more info.
Salem Haunted Happenings – Salem, Massachusetts
Salem, Massachusetts, is a historic town known for its role in the witch trials of 1692. Every October, the town comes alive with a month-long festival celebrating its eerie past. Salem Haunted Happenings includes ghost tours, haunted houses, and costume parades. Families can participate in pumpkin decorating, themed storytelling, and enjoy the eerie atmosphere. The event blends education and fun, making it perfect for Halloween enthusiasts.
Salem’s festival is not only spooky but also deeply rooted in history, offering educational experiences. You can explore historic sites, including the Witch Trials Memorial and the House of the Seven Gables. There are also plenty of kid-friendly events such as magic shows and interactive exhibits. Salem’s transformation into a Halloween wonderland with its eerie charm and historic setting draws families from all over. It’s a must-see destination for those looking to experience a spooky yet educational Halloween.
Disneyland Resort Halloween – Anaheim, California
Disneyland Resort in Anaheim offers a magical Halloween experience for families of all ages. Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party allows families to enjoy the park with a festive, spooky twist. There are themed rides, character appearances, and trick-or-treating across the park. The whole place is decorated with pumpkins, Halloween lights, and other festive touches. It’s a fun, safe way for families to enjoy the spirit of Halloween in a world-famous setting.
One of the highlights is the iconic Haunted Mansion Holiday, where Disney’s classic ride gets a spooky makeover. Families can also join in on themed parades and enjoy Halloween-themed snacks. Disneyland’s Halloween celebration is perfect for younger children, as the scares are kept lighthearted and fun. This is the ideal spot for families looking for a fun and festive atmosphere without the fright. The combination of Disney magic and Halloween excitement is a win for families.
Headless Horseman Hayrides and Haunted Houses – Ulster Park, New York
Located in Ulster Park, New York, the Headless Horseman Hayride is based on the famous story of Sleepy Hollow. Every October, visitors can take part in a thrilling hayride through dark forests and spooky landscapes. The hayride is accompanied by frightening effects and live actors, adding to the suspense. The haunted houses are equally terrifying, with intricate details and creepy surprises at every turn. It’s a perfect place for families who love a good scare mixed with legendary American folklore.
The event offers family-friendly fun during the day with activities like pumpkin picking and crafts. For those looking for a bit more adventure, the haunted mazes and hayrides provide a spine-chilling experience. The festival’s connection to Washington Irving’s tale of the Headless Horseman gives it a historical touch. Families can enjoy the combination of spooky fun and the rich storytelling heritage of the area. It’s a great Halloween tradition for those who want to experience a mix of fright and history.
Halloween Horror Nights – Orlando, Florida
Universal Studios Orlando is home to one of the most terrifying Halloween events in the U.S. Halloween Horror Nights features haunted houses inspired by famous horror movies, TV shows, and original stories. While the event is geared towards older kids and adults, it offers a variety of scare zones and thrilling experiences. The attractions are designed to give visitors a frightful experience with incredible special effects and terrifying characters. Families looking for an adrenaline rush will find it here.
In addition to the haunted houses, the event includes themed performances, live shows, and more. Universal Studios transforms the entire park, turning it into a Halloween nightmare filled with creatures and eerie sets. While the event may not be suitable for very young children, older kids will love the spooky thrills. With so much to explore, Halloween Horror Nights is the place for families seeking a fun and terrifying Halloween adventure. It’s one of the top Halloween events in the country for thrill-seekers.
The Great Jack-o’-Lantern Blaze – Croton-on-Hudson, New York
Set in the Van Cortlandt Manor, The Great Jack-o’-Lantern Blaze is a festival filled with thousands of hand-carved pumpkins. This annual event showcases spectacular pumpkin displays, including glowing sculptures of famous figures and animals. It’s a mesmerizing experience, with creative themes and glowing lights lighting up the night. Families can walk through the event, marveling at the intricate carvings and enjoying the seasonal atmosphere. The event is perfect for a family outing with a calming yet spooky vibe.
The Great Jack-o’-Lantern Blaze features a variety of themed areas, from classic Halloween figures to pop culture icons. Visitors can also enjoy the festive fall activities such as pumpkin picking and live music. The event is well-lit, making it safe for families to walk through while admiring the displays. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy Halloween without the heavy scares. The event offers a chance to witness art and creativity in the form of intricately carved pumpkins.
Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party – Orlando, Florida
Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Walt Disney World is the perfect Halloween event for young families. The event features trick-or-treating, character meet-and-greets, and a festive parade. The park is transformed into a Halloween wonderland with pumpkins, ghosts, and Disney-themed decorations. Families can enjoy classic Disney rides, now with a Halloween twist, and experience the magic of the season in a safe and fun environment. The entire park is full of family-friendly activities, making it an ideal Halloween celebration for all ages.
One of the event’s highlights is the Boo-to-You parade, where beloved Disney characters join in on the Halloween fun. The event also includes special fireworks shows and themed snacks for visitors to enjoy. Unlike other Halloween events, Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is designed to be less frightening, making it perfect for young children. Families can dress in costumes, enjoy themed rides, and participate in other fun activities. The combination of Disney magic and Halloween joy makes this event a memorable experience.
The Nightmare Before Christmas Festival – St. Helens, Oregon
St. Helens, Oregon, hosts a festival dedicated to the classic Nightmare Before Christmas movie, making it a special Halloween event for families. The town, which was the inspiration for the film’s setting, is transformed into a Halloween wonderland filled with themed attractions. Families can enjoy pumpkin decorating, trick-or-treating, and live performances inspired by the movie. The festival is perfect for fans of Tim Burton’s classic Halloween tale. The entire town becomes part of the magic, with Halloween-themed activities around every corner.
For families, this festival offers a chance to experience the world of Jack Skellington and his friends. The event includes screenings of the film, costume contests, and themed food and drinks. It’s a great way to bring the beloved movie to life, offering fans a new way to enjoy the spooky season. The charming small-town vibe adds to the fun, making it an ideal spot for families seeking a festive yet relaxed atmosphere. It’s an unforgettable Halloween celebration for fans of The Nightmare Before Christmas.
West Hollywood Halloween Carnival – West Hollywood, California
The West Hollywood Halloween Carnival is a lively and colorful event that has become a tradition for locals and visitors alike. The streets of West Hollywood are filled with festive costumes, performances, and entertainment throughout the night. While the event is known for its vibrant party atmosphere, there are plenty of family-friendly activities like face painting and trick-or-treating. Families can join in on the excitement by dressing up in costumes and enjoying the lively parades and music. The carnival is a great way to experience a fun and energetic Halloween celebration.
The event features a mix of live performances, food trucks, and themed attractions. While the carnival itself can get crowded, the fun atmosphere and unique costumes make it worth the visit. The entire city of West Hollywood gets involved, with streets lined with Halloween-themed decorations and colorful lights. For families with older kids, the event offers plenty of entertainment without being too frightening. The West Hollywood Halloween Carnival is a must-see for those who want to enjoy a festive, energetic celebration.
Haunted Mansion Holiday – Anaheim, California
At Disneyland, the Haunted Mansion gets a Halloween makeover every year, blending the spooky and the festive. This annual event, known as Haunted Mansion Holiday, is a nod to Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas. Families can enjoy a spooky ride through a mansion decorated for Halloween, featuring Jack Skellington and his friends. The ride is full of fun surprises, including eerie music and special effects. It’s a wonderful way to experience both Halloween and Christmas in a unique Disney fashion.
During this seasonal transformation, the Haunted Mansion becomes a spooky yet whimsical attraction. The mansion’s eerie charm and festive decorations make it a fun ride for all ages. Families can enjoy themed merchandise and limited-edition treats inspired by the movie. The event is perfect for families with young children who may not be ready for more frightening Halloween experiences. The blend of spooky and festive elements makes this one of Disneyland’s most beloved Halloween events.
Pumpkinfest – Tualatin, Oregon
Pumpkinfest in Tualatin, Oregon, is an autumn festival that celebrates the best of fall and Halloween. The event features a wide variety of activities, including pumpkin carving, hayrides, and face painting. Families can visit the pumpkin patch to pick their own pumpkins and enjoy a festive atmosphere. The festival also includes local food vendors, making it a great spot for a casual Halloween outing. Pumpkinfest is a wonderful way for families to enjoy the season’s harvest and celebrate Halloween in a relaxed setting.
The festival also offers themed games and a costume contest, making it an excellent choice for kids. Pumpkinfest’s family-friendly activities are perfect for young children who might not enjoy the scarier side of Halloween. The event takes place in a beautiful outdoor setting, allowing families to take in the beauty of fall. It’s an easygoing and fun celebration that brings the community together. Pumpkinfest is a great option for families who want to enjoy Halloween in a calm, family-oriented environment.
Fall Fest at the Farm – Franklin, Tennessee
Franklin, Tennessee, hosts the Fall Fest at the Farm, an annual celebration of the harvest season and Halloween. The festival features hayrides, pumpkin carving, and family-friendly activities for all ages. Visitors can pick pumpkins, explore corn mazes, and participate in face painting and crafts. The event is set on a beautiful farm, creating a picturesque backdrop for fall celebrations. Fall Fest at the Farm is the ideal place to spend the day with the family, enjoying the beauty of the season.
In addition to the Halloween festivities, the festival includes local food vendors and live entertainment. Families can relax and enjoy the peaceful farm setting while participating in fun seasonal activities. The event is perfect for those who want a more relaxed Halloween experience. It offers a great balance of Halloween fun and family-oriented activities, making it suitable for all ages. The peaceful setting and charming atmosphere make Fall Fest at the Farm a must-see this Halloween season.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.