It’s time for the season of costumes, treats, witches, warlocks, and whimsy! Get your fright on or just collect some candy and show off your best costume at these themed events. Either way, you’ll have a blast.
Spirits of Wake Forest Ghost Walk
October 1-30:
Thursdays and Fridays 6:30 & 8 p.m.
Saturdays 6:30, 7, 8 & 8:30 p.m.
Downtown Wake Forest
Learn some local history and lots of eerie stories as told by performers from Firebox Theatre Company. Join for a leisurely walk through the business district, rain or shine. Recommended for ages 8 and up. $20 per person.
Want a sneak peek without ruining the surprises? Check out some retired stories from past years.
Track or Treat Halloween Express
October 10, 14, 17, 23, 24 (check website for times)
New Hope Valley Railway, New Hill
Climb aboard for a festive ride through the woods where Halloween surprises wait around every curve. Watch closely for Count Dracula, witches, bubbling cauldrons, pumpkin characters, and other friendly spooky visitors. Afternoon rides take place in daylight, sunset rides offer amazing views, and nighttime rides add to the spookiness. October 14 brings a sensory-friendly ride for sensitive participants. $18.61 for riders 2 and up (sensory friendly day $13.20 children, $16.45 adults, $15.35 seniors). #309 caboose seating 10 available for select trips for $190.65.
Halloween Boo Bash
October 17, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Downtown Wake Forest
Geared for children ages 12 and younger, this free day of fun includes exhibits, inflatables, carnival games, activities, DJ tunes, and food trucks. Costumes highly encouraged! Sensory bags with noise-canceling headphones, fidget toys, weighted lap pads, and other aids are available from the Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources tent.
Fuquay-Varina Haunted Trail
October 17, 5 & 7 p.m.
Carroll Howard Johnson Environmental Education Park
Walk the quarter-mile path — if you dare — through the dark woods with unexpected surprises at every bend. Children between 10 and 12 can attend the Full Fright option at 7 p.m.with a parent. For a less spooky alternative, stroll the twilight Family Trail in costume and interact with characters along the way.
Kooky Spooky
October 23, 6-8:30 p.m.
Marbles Kids Museum, Raleigh
This Halloween party with a Marbles twist means educational opportunities like static orbs, boo bubbles, and a chance to design your own haunted transportation. Of course, there’s also a costume parade, Monster Mash dance party, and lots of treats! $22 per person ($20 for museum members)
Spellbound at Mordecai
October 24, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Mordecai Historic Park, Raleigh
This Halloween market is all about the kids! Participate in a costume contest and parade, but please no horror, gore, or full face masks. Create spooky crafts, decorate a pumpkin, shop handmade items, and meet mysterious creatures and amazing magicians. Free to attend; preregistration encouraged.
Haunted Footsteps Ghost Tour
Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays at 7:30 p.m. (5:30 October 30 & 31)
Downtown Raleigh
Wear comfortable shoes for this walking tour that takes you to the Raleigh City Cemetery and other historic locations, ending in Moore Square. Hear tales of the Capitol phantoms, peg-legged ghost, and lots more local ghost stories. Family-friendly for ages 8 and up. $22 ages 15+, $18 ages 8-14.
