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Pony rides always bring out smiles at Linvilla Orchards. Photo courtesy of the orchard
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50+ Top Halloween Events in Philly: From Not-So-Spooky to Haunted Happenings

Treat your family to Halloween festivities at Hersheypark. Photo courtesy of Hersheypark
Treat your family to Halloween festivities at Hersheypark. Photo courtesy of Hersheypark
9/23/22 - By Kristen Sullivan

We all know that Halloween can be silly-scary, but the parental task of finding fun things to do for the holiday can also give moms and dads quite a fright! Thankfully, this time of year is chock-full of fun Halloween events for kids in Philadelphia, and we know all the top spots for ghouls, goblins, and witches of every age.

From pumpkin decorating and candy collecting for young ones to super scary experiences that chill tweens and teens to the bone, our Halloween Guide for Philly Kids is constantly being updated with new ways to spend the spookiest season. For more experiences that will have you falling for fall, be sure to read our recent posts on apple picking, corn mazes, and pumpkin patches, and visit our Guide to Fall in Philly. 

OUR LATEST VIDEOS

Come in costume to the Philadelphia Zoo’s Halloween extravaganza, Boo at the Zoo. Photo courtesy of the Zoo
Come in costume to the Philadelphia Zoo’s Halloween extravaganza, Boo at the Zoo. Photo courtesy of the Zoo

Halloween Events Near Philly with Animals

Elmwood Park Zoo's Boo at the Zoo

Saturdays and Sundays, October 8 through October 30, 2022
Collect candy while admiring the wildlife throughout the Elmwood Park Zoo. A costume parade, treats, animal meet-and-greets, and much more are in store for revelers. As an added perk, various drink specials are on tap for the grown ups. READ MORE

Philadelphia Zoo's Boo at the Zoo

Saturdays and Sundays, October 15 through October 30, 2022
Dress up and head to Boo at the Zoo, where you can trick-or-treat among the animals. Over the course of three weekends, families can enjoy collecting candy, kid-friendly decorations, photo-ops, activities, and more. READ MORE

Brandywine Zoo's Boo at the Zoo

Friday October 21 - Sunday, October 23, 2022
In the spirit of the Halloween season, children are invited to dress up in costume to see the animals at the Brandywine Zoo. Guests can expect not-so-spooky activities, Halloween decorations, and more. READ MORE
Enjoy the Count's Halloween Spooktacular at Sesame Place. Photo courtesy of Sesame Place
Enjoy the Count's Halloween Spooktacular at Sesame Place. Photo courtesy of Sesame Place

Halloween Events at Theme Parks Near Philly

Six Flags Great Adventure's All-New Hallowfest

Halloween Haunt at Dorney Park

Select Nights, September 16 - October 29, 2022
Hundreds of terrifying ghouls and ghosts promise to make kids' nightmares a reality throughout Dorney Park's Halloween Haunt. Various scare zones, live entertainment and haunted mazes transform the park into a spooky adventure for those courageous enough to enter. READ MORE

Hersheypark Halloween

Daily, September 17-October 30, 2022
Every evening throughout Hersheypark Halloween, Dark Nights™ descends for an immersive and haunting experience featuring three scare zones and four haunted houses, with attractions like Twisted Darkness and Midway of Misery. READ MORE

The Count's Halloween Spooktacular

Saturdays and Sundays from September 17-November 6, 2022
Enjoy silly, not-too-spooky fun at The Count’s Halloween Spooktacular at Sesame Place. Everyone is encouraged to wear a costume and enjoy Halloween shows, a themed maze, three Count von Count-themed mechanical rides, and a Neighborhood Street Party Halloween Parade. READ MORE

Trick-or-Treat Weekends at Storybook Land

Saturdays and Sundays, October 22-30, 2022
Families visiting Storybook Land can climb aboard the Happy Hayride to pick a pumpkin, and decorate it just in time for Halloween. Then, find your way through Elmer’s Haymazin’ Maze, and pick up treat bags. READ MORE

Diggerfest

Saturdays and Sundays, September 24-October 30 , 2022
Full-day admission to this annual seasonal celebration grants you access to all of the rides and attractions at Diggerland USA, plus additional fall festival and Halloween fun. READ MORE

Screamin' Green Hauntoween

Daily, September 24-October 31, 2022
Visitors to Crayola Experience Easton can participate in the colorful and festive Screamin' Green Hauntoween. Kids can enjoy crafts, photo ops, pumpkin decorating, and a themed scavenger hunt. There are 28 attractions in all. READ MORE

Happy Hauntings at Dutch Wonderland

Saturdays and Sundays, October 1-October 30, 2022
Happy Hauntings is a kid-friendly Halloween extravaganza at Dutch Wonderland in Lancaster. Escape to Amish country for themed rides, a trick-or-treat trail, and a costume contest. Admission includes unlimited rides and live entertainment. READ MORE

Brick-or-Treat presents Monster Party!

Daily, October 1-31, 2022
Join the LEGO® Monsters at their Brick-or-Treat Monster Party this Halloween to celebrate the release of their brand new 4D Movie, ‘The Great Monster Chase!’ Exclusive to LEGOLAND® and packed with fun games and lots of LEGO® Halloween activities, you won’t want to miss The LEGO® party of the season.  READ MORE
Take a ride aboard the legendary Pumpkin Train. Photo courtesy of Delaware River Railroad Excursions
Take a ride aboard the legendary Pumpkin Train. Photo courtesy of Delaware River Railroad Excursions

Halloween Hayrides and Train Rides Near Philly

Hayrides to the Witch's House

Daily from September 23-October 30, 2022
Have you ever visited a witch's house? Families can take a hayride to see Linvilla Orchard's friendly witch. This witch tells stories, jokes, and even gives the kids a treat. READ MORE

Daytime Hayrides at Colonial Gardens

Daily, September 24-October 31, 2022
Children can enjoy a hayride through Colonial Acres' friendly woods during the daylight hours. READ MORE

Colonial Gardens Haunted Hayride

Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, October 1- 30, 2022
Get spooked at Colonial Gardens on this haunted hayride, with ghouls and monsters waiting to surprise you at every turn. This year's hayride is accompanied by a haunted hedge maze, if you're in search of up close and personal encounters with the living dead. READ MORE

The Great Pumpkin Train

Saturdays and Sundays, October 1-30, 2022
Throughout the month of October, visitors can take the train to pick a pumpkin from the pumpkin patch while enjoying the beautiful scenery. Extend the fun with add-ons like the corn maze and gem mining for an additional fee. READ MORE

Haunted Halloween on the New Hope Railroad

Select days, October 8-30, 2022
This PG-13 train ride at New Hope & Ivyland Railroad is not for the faint of heart. The attraction isn't recommended for children under age 12, and passengers should be prepare for heart-stopping scares. READ MORE

Trick-or-Treat Train

Saturdays and Sundays, October 8-30, 2022
All aboard the train at New Hope Railroad for a 45-minute trick-or-treat train ride. Kids can dress up in their Halloween costumes and ride the rails, with stops for for candy and assorted toys. READ MORE

Pumpkin Patch Train

Sunday, October 16, Saturday, October 22, and Sunday, October 23, 2022
Hop in one of the train cars and take a ride to the Great Pumpkin Patch. Once you arrive, children can select their very own pumpkin. When you get back to the Kempton Station, choose a decorating kit to take home. READ MORE

Halloween Special at West Chester Railroad

Saturdays and Sundays, October 22-30, 2022
Don't forget your costume for West Chester Railroad's Halloween train ride. Passengers journey in a heated train with breathtaking view of the Chester Creek Valley. Kids collect a few treats at the historic station during a 20-minute stop.  READ MORE

Halloween Express at Wilmington & Western Railroad

Sunday, October 30, 2022
Passengers will see a few friendly witches as they visit the Wilmington & Western Railroad for a ride on the Halloween train.  READ MORE
Visit Peddler's Village for the annual Scarecrows in the Village display. Photo courtesy of Peddler's Village
Visit Peddler's Village for the annual Scarecrows in the Village display. Photo courtesy of Peddler's Village

Not So Scary Halloween Events Near Philly

Scarecrows in the Village

Daily, September 5-October 31, 2022
Peddler's Village hosts its annual Scarecrow Season, where the life-size creations are up for your vote across several categories. This two-month fall festival begins with a special Scarecrow Kickoff Weekend, and attendees can register to participate in scarecrow-making workshops throughout September. READ MORE

Scarecrow Walk & Design Contest

Daily, October 1-30, 2022
The scarecrows on display at Morris Arboretum are eager to meet new guests, who are encouraged to vote for their favorite.  READ MORE

Franklin Fright

Saturdays and Sundays, October 1 - 30, 2022
Put on a costume to trick-or-treat indoors at The Franklin Institute. Knock on decorated doors throughout the museum, enjoy spooky science experiments, and more, every weekend in October. READ MORE

Shiverfest

Saturday, October 15, 2022
Shiverfest is a Halloween-themed event at the Riverbend Environmental Education Center, featuring pony rides, trick-or-treat trails, fall arts and crafts, and kid-friendly haunted attractions. READ MORE

The Great Pumpkin Carve of Chadds Ford

October 20-22, 2022
This three day festival features over 60 artisans as they turn ordinary pumpkins into extraordinary works of art. In addition to seeing the carved pumpkins, kids can walk a haunted trail, win raffle prizes, and hear live music. READ MORE

Halloween Ghost Ship

October 22, 2022
Got a pirate costume? Put it to good use aboard the Kalmar Nyckel at the Wilmington Riverfront, where the boat's captain and mates will regale young visitors with stories of life at sea. A spookily decorated indoor ship will be on display, and kids can partake in Halloween crafts. READ MORE

West Chester Halloween Parade

October 26, 2022
Come in costume to West Chester annual Halloween parade. READ MORE

Oxford Halloween Parade

October 27, 2022
Witches and ghosts and goblins... oh my! That and more are in store for spectators at the Oxford Halloween parade. Dance performances are sure to delight and music is certain to entertain at this festive and fun celebration of fall. READ MORE

Trick-or-Treat at the Art Museum

October 28, 2022
Wear your costume to the Philadelphia Museum of Art for trick-or-treating through the galleries. Solve riddles, meet costumed characters, make art as a family in the Balcony Studio, and more. READ MORE

Craft Hall-O-Ween and Not-So-Spooky Costumer Party and Parade

October 29, 2022
Come in costume to Craft Hall to spend a spooktacular Saturday. This event kicks off with a kid's costume parade, followed by a puppy parade. Pick a pumpkin to decorate, and enjoy more family-freindly activities. READ MORE

Halloween in Manayunk

October 29, 2022
Wear your costume to Main Street, where businesses will be doling out the goods for Manayunk's annual Halloween celebration. Strut your stuff in a kid and pet costume parade, enjoy family activities, and trick-or-treat at select businesses. READ MORE

Trick-or-Treat Street in Franklin Square

October 29, 2022
Recommended for children 10 and younger, kids visiting Franklin Square can follow the map to collect goodies on Trick-or-Treat Street. READ MORE

Tram and Treat at Winterthur

October 29, 2022
Ride a tram car throughout Winterthur's scenic grounds, stopping along the way to collect treats and enjoy crafts. Reservations are strongly suggested as capacity is limited. Treats are available while supplies last. Bring your own treat bag. READ MORE

Ambler Halloween Parade Extravaganza

October 29, 2022
Main Street is the place to be for costumed kiddos, who'll meet at the Ambler Theater for trick-or-treating, pumpkin decorating, and other kid-friendly activities. READ MORE

Barely Scarely Halloween Spooktacular at Smith Memorial Playground

October 29, 2022
Come in costume and enjoy a (hardly) haunted house, spider scavenger hunt, costume parade, fun with pumpkins, a slingshot contest, free giveaways, healthy and sweet treats, and other family fun in the 6 ½ acre Playground. READ MORE

PumpkinFest in Headhouse

October 29, 2022
Celebrate the fall season at the South Street Headhouse District’s PumpkinFest. Guests can expect crafts, candy, pumpkin-decorating, trick or treating at local businesses, live music, a pumpkin carving contest, and circus performances. READ MORE

PAFA Halloween Extravaganza

October 30, 2022
Wear your costume to the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts for a creative Halloween Extravaganza. Explore mysterious works of art, make Halloween art as a family, enjoy spooky decor, and more. READ MORE
Tee off at Spooky Mini Golf--if you dare Photo by J. Fusco, courtesy of Franklin Square
Tee off at Spooky Mini Golf--if you dare Photo by J. Fusco, courtesy of Franklin Square

Scary and Haunted Halloween Events Near Philly

Ghost Tour of Philadelphia

Daily
Listen to spine-tingling tales of ghosts, haunted houses, and hidden burial grounds on a candlelight walking tour of Old City and Society Hill with the original Ghost Tour of Philadelphia. READ MORE

Bates Motel and Haunted Hayride

Daily, September 23-October 31, 2022
Be prepared to be scared! Attractions include the Bates Motel Haunted Mansion, Revenge of the Scarecrows Haunted Trail, and the Haunted Hayride. READ MORE

Fright Factory

Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, September 23-October 31, 2022
Billed as Philadelphia's ultimate haunted house, Fright Factory is located in a 120+ year old warehouse and divided into three different spooky themes. Guests can experience Industrial Nightmare, South Side Sanatorium, or Fright Factory Unholy among the hair-raising options. READ MORE

Halloween Nights at Eastern State Penitentiary

September 23-November 12, 2022
If a potential encounter with the ghost of Al Capone sounds like something your family might like, then the haunted jail cells at Eastern State Penitentiary are worth a visit. Halloween Nights at the prison feature three immersive walk-through experiences, three live, interactive performances, four themed bars and lounges for adults, and three opportunities to explore the cellblocks. Older kids just may be scared straight. READ MORE

Outdoor Movie Night at Peddler's Village

Fridays, September 24 and October 22, 2022
Get into the spirit of the fall season by taking the whole family out to Peddler's Village to watch movies under the stars. Screenings feature the Wizard of Oz, Ghostbusters: Afterlife, and Hocus Pocus.  READ MORE

Haunted Drive-In

Select days, September 30-October 31, 2022
You don't even have to get out of the car for the haunted drive-in at Snipes Farm, complete with live actors and creepy music. Each night features a different movie.  READ MORE

Spooky Mini Golf

Daily, October 1-31, 2022
Franklin Square's mini golf gets a spooky makeover. Kids can putt along to eerie music, creepy lights, and fog on this Halloween-inspired course. READ MORE

Lincoln Mill Haunted House

Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, October 6-November 5, 2022
Philly's newest haunted attraction is Lincoln Mill Haunted House, featuring more than 40 live actors, animatronics, special effects and more, for a highly scary experience. For those looking for less of a scare, the house offers Saturday day time scavenger hunts without scare actors. READ MORE

Betsy Ross House Spooky Twilight Tours

Fridays, October 7-29, 2022
Every Friday in October, guests to the Betsy Ross House can travel back to Philadelphia in the 1700s to learn about the city’s gruesome history of infection and inoculation. Visitors can listen to true stories about bloodletting, smallpox, and yellow fever, and take a spooky tour of the house. READ MORE

Hauntings in History Walking Tours

Fridays and Saturdays, October 7-29, plus October 30, 2022
This walking tour explores the dark side of New Castle's history including legends and superstitions of this centuries-old town. This is a PG-13 event. READ MORE

Places featured in this article:

Delaware River Railroad Excursions
Wanamaker, Kempton & Southern Railroad
Riverbend Environmental Education Center
Chadds Ford Historical Society
Wilmington Riverfront/Fort Christina Park/Kalmar Nyckel Shipyard
Downtown Oxford
Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library
Snipes Farm & Education Center
New Castle Visitors Center at the Arsenal