We’ve created a list of the greatest Halloween celebrations across the United States, stretching from California to New York. This guide will assist you in selecting the ideal way to enjoy the holiday. Whether you prefer parades or pumpkin carving, there’s a Halloween event for everyone. Explore our compilation of the top Halloween events in the USA, which includes:
1.Museum of Illusions
2.Knott’s Scary Farm
3.Village Halloween Parade
4.Haunted Happenings
5.And more!
Celebrate Halloween at the Museum of Illusions in Orlando with Trick or Treating!
Head over to the delightfully spooky Museum of Illusions this October for a one-of-a-kind “edutainment” experience that combines tricks and treats!
They invite you to dress up in your scariest costumes and visit the museum on Wednesdays, where it undergoes a monstrous transformation. Plus, you’ll receive free candy as you explore the museum!
During Halloween, some of the Museum of Illusions’ mind-bending rooms, like the mind-twisting Ames Room, the Color Room, the Reversed Room, and the hilariously spooky Head on the Plate exhibit, will get a ghoulishly fun makeover. And what better way to enjoy them than with some extra sweet treats?
Don’t forget your camera – these reimagined exhibits offer perfect opportunities for some seriously spooktacular photos!
To join in the fun, visit every Wednesday in October (6th, 13th, 20th, and 27th) from 5 PM to 8 PM. The Trick or Treat event is included with your Go Orlando pass.
Knott’s Scary Farm
From September 16 to October 31, Knott’s Berry Farm, usually a sweet destination, morphs into the delightfully eerie Knott’s Scary Farm for Halloween. It’s Southern California’s largest, and some say spookiest, Halloween event. You’ll encounter haunted houses, chilling shows, mazes, and more.
As you explore the heart-pounding thrill rides, be on the lookout for ghosts, clowns, and monsters lurking in the shadows. The event even offers a ‘Boo-fet’ dinner, and an ‘Awaken the Dead’ DJ set with a dance floor.
Please note that Knott’s Scary Farm may not be suitable for children under 13. For additional Halloween ideas in Los Angeles, check out our guide.
To enter, regular admission to Knott’s Berry Farm is included with the Go Los Angeles pass, but Knott’s Scary Farm tickets must be purchased separately.
Village Halloween Parade
On October 31, 2021, in Greenwich Village, New York, at 7 PM, you’ll find what is arguably the finest Halloween parade in the USA – the Village Halloween Parade. This event draws thousands of New Yorkers each year. The best part? Anyone can join in the parade as long as they’re wearing a costume! So, it’s time to let your creativity flow and start crafting your costume right away. Take a look at our Halloween in New York guide to maximize your visit.
Getting in is a breeze – the Village Halloween Parade is free for both participants and spectators. If you want to be part of the parade, head to Sixth Ave at Canal Street at 6:30 PM. Just make sure you’re dressed up in a spooky costume to walk in the parade!
For more information, visit the NYC Village Halloween Parade website. The Go New York pass includes admission to many top attractions in New York.
Día de Los Muertos
In San Antonio, from October 23 to 24, 2021, you’ll find the 9th Annual Día de Los Muertos celebration. While it’s not a Halloween event, it falls on the weekend just before Halloween and promises a delightful and festive time. This event commemorates the Mexican holiday with activities like an altar-building competition, workshops, a colorful procession, live poetry and music performances, art vendors, and a variety of delicious foods.
Día de Los Muertos is a traditional Mexican festivity with its origins dating back to pre-Hispanic times in Mexico and Central America. Instead of the eerie vibes of Halloween, Día de Los Muertos is a joyful holiday that honors those who have passed away. It’s celebrated with vibrant decorations such as flowers and “sugar skulls” known as calaveras.
Fun fact: National Geographic recognized San Antonio’s Día de Los Muertos as one of the ‘7 Best Fall Festivals in the USA.’ If you needed more reasons to attend, there you have it!
To join in the celebration, the Día de Los Muertos event is free, and the Go San Antonio pass includes admission to top San Antonio attractions.
Halloween Events in Salem
Throughout the entire month of October, Salem, Massachusetts, is the place to be for Halloween. It’s renowned for its witch trials and has a history filled with darkness and mystery, making it one of the top destinations to revel in Halloween festivities. Salem even hosts a dedicated Halloween festival called ‘Haunted Happenings.’ There’s always an abundance of Halloween activities in Salem, including a parade, ghost tours, a witch museum, and much more. For more spine-chilling ideas to add to your Halloween itinerary, explore our comprehensive guides on Halloween in Salem and Halloween in Boston.
Entering Salem is relatively easy, with many free Halloween events, although some may require tickets. The Go Boston pass covers admission to top Boston attractions, including the Witch Museum.
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