Top Free Halloween Events in NYC: Pumpkin Flotilla, Halloween Parades, and More

The Harlem Meer's Pumpkin Floatilla is packed with free fun for costumed kids. Photo courtesy of Central Park Conservancy
The Harlem Meer's Pumpkin Floatilla is packed with free fun for costumed kids. Photo courtesy of Central Park Conservancy
10/1/23 - By Drew Kristofik

What's the one way to make costume-and-candy-filled Halloween events even sweeter? Make them free! In New York City, there are loads of no-cost Halloween celebrations in 2023, whether you're looking for preschooler Halloween events or you've got a teen who can't wait to be spooked.

There are no tricks here: We've decided to give parents the best treat of all with this roundup of free Halloween events in New York City for kids, including Mommy Poppins' own fun Halloween Block Party at the South Street Seaport. Our list also includes big annual favorites like the charming Pumpkin Flotilla on the Harlem Meer, the Pumpkin Pageant in Inwood, and much more. We'll even tell you where to find a free pumpkin.

So, bring your costumes, but leave your wallets at home for these free Halloween events in New York City, and find everything from NYC's best trick-or-treating spots to splurge-worthy Halloween events in our New York City Kids' Halloween Guide.

As always, if an event piques your interest, click through to our listing for all the details, including addresses, times, and recommended ages. And keep in mind: You may need to register in advance to take advantage of all the free Halloween events in NYC.

Subscribe to our newsletters to get stories like this delivered directly to your inbox.

OUR LATEST VIDEOS

Places featured in this article:


Governors Island

Brookfield Place New York

East Harlem Tutorial Program

Socrates Sculpture Park

BAM Peter Jay Sharp Lobby and Lepercq Space

Adam Clayton Powell Jr. State Office Building Plaza

La Plaza Cultural Community Garden