Looking for the best Halloween events in 2026? From immersive horror experiences and haunted houses to candlelit concerts, themed pop-up bars, and costume parties, there are plenty of ways to get into the Halloween spirit this October.
Whether you're planning a family-friendly outing or a night of spooky adventures with friends, we've rounded up Halloween activities across the US worth adding to your calendar. Explore our top picks for October 28 – November 1, including interactive experiences, theatrical performances, and seasonal events in major cities.
Top Halloween Picks
1. Candlelight: Halloween Classics
Los Angeles (Hollywood & Burbank), Chicago, Oakland, Kansas City, Atlanta, Seattle, Philadelphia, Denver
October 29 – 31, 2026
Celebrate spooky season through music at this atmospheric candlelit concert. A live string quartet performs recognizable Halloween and horror favorites, with music from Beetlejuice, Ghostbusters, Stranger Things, and The Nightmare Before Christmas, alongside classical pieces that set a haunting mood. It's a more relaxed way to celebrate Halloween while enjoying an intimate, multisensory live performance.
2. Trick or Drink Halloween Bar Crawl
Chicago, San Francisco, Boston, Nashville, Atlanta, Seattle, Philadelphia, Denver, San Diego
October 30 – November 1, 2026
Turn trick-or-treating into a grown-up night out with this Halloween bar crawl. Gather your friends, dress up in costume, and explore participating bars with a crawl wristband that offers entry perks and drink specials. It's a fun option for anyone who wants to combine Halloween costumes, nightlife, and a little city-hopping between venues.
3. Dave and Boo-ster's: Family Halloween
New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Boston, Miami, Austin, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Denver, San Diego
October 31, 2026
Looking for something spooky without the scares? This family-oriented Halloween outing offers a chance to celebrate with the kids in a playful entertainment setting. Make a day of arcade games, costumes, and seasonal fun, giving little ones a Halloween activity that doesn't revolve around haunted houses or horror.
4. Blood Manor 2026
New York City
Select nights through November 1, 2026
One for horror fans, Blood Manor transforms a historic New York building into a terrifying theatrical experience. Visitors navigate approximately 10,000 square feet of frightening rooms, shadowy corridors, and hidden passageways populated by unsettling surprises. With elaborate sets and live scares, it's a classic haunted-house experience for those who want Halloween to feel genuinely frightening.
5. Monster Ball at Elsie Rooftop
New York City
October 31, 2026
Dress to impress for a Halloween night above Midtown Manhattan. Monster Ball brings a costume party to Elsie Rooftop and Penthouse, complete with a live DJ, cocktails, dancing, and skyline views. The elevated setting makes it a good pick for anyone looking to trade haunted hallways for a glamorous Halloween night out.
6. Pure Terror Scream Park
Monroe, New York
October 29 – November 1, 2026
Ready for a full night of fright? Pure Terror Scream Park features 10 haunted attractions, including the new Gargoyle Den for 2026. Expect cinematic sets, scare actors, and a series of horror-themed environments designed to keep visitors on edge. Located in Monroe, about 40 miles from New York City, it's a destination for anyone who wants to make haunted attractions the main event of their Halloween weekend.
7. Drunk Dracula
Los Angeles
October 28 – November 1, 2026
What happens when classic vampire horror meets tipsy theatrical comedy? Drunk Dracula offers a playful twist on Bram Stoker's famous tale, with a performer taking on the story of Transylvania's most notorious vampire after a series of whiskey shots. With cocktails served to the audience, this 90-minute show blends comedy, live theater, and Halloween atmosphere for a decidedly unconventional night out.
8. The Nightmare Bar
San Francisco, Seattle, Denver, San Diego
October 29 – 31, 2026
For a social Halloween experience with a horror-inspired twist, head to The Nightmare Bar. This themed pop-up combines spooky décor, atmospheric lighting, seasonal cocktails, music, interactive games, and photo-worthy installations. Costumes are encouraged, making it a great choice for groups who want to get into character without committing to a full haunted-house experience.
9. The Vampire Ball at Museum of Sex
Miami
October 31, 2026
For those drawn to Halloween's darker, more theatrical side, the Vampire Ball promises a night inspired by gothic style and vampire lore. Think dramatic costumes, a nocturnal atmosphere, and a chance to embrace the more mysterious side of the holiday. Check the event listing for the latest details on programming and admission.
10. The Vampire Dungeon by Nocturna
Miami
October 31, 2026
Step into a darker Halloween world with The Vampire Dungeon by Nocturna. With its vampire-inspired concept, the event is a fitting pick for anyone who loves gothic aesthetics, supernatural storytelling, and immersive environments. If traditional Halloween parties aren't your thing, this is one to explore for a more atmospheric take on the holiday. Check the listing for the full experience details.
11. Monster Mash Family Bash
Austin, Atlanta, Denver
October 30, 2026
A Halloween-themed family outing for those looking to celebrate with younger guests. It's an option to explore if you're after a festive atmosphere and seasonal entertainment without the intensity of a horror attraction. Check the listing for the event's activities and age recommendations.
12. SeaWorld San Diego Howl-O-Scream
San Diego
October 29 – 31, 2026
For visitors who love elaborate haunted environments, Howl-O-Scream offers a horror-themed nighttime outing at SeaWorld San Diego. Explore the event's dark atmosphere and scare-focused entertainment for a Halloween adventure geared toward thrill-seekers. Check age guidance and admission details before visiting.
13. Ghost Light Masquerade
San Diego
October 28–29, 2026
A Halloween-season masquerade is a chance to embrace dramatic costumes, mysterious characters, and an atmospheric night out. Ghost Light Masquerade is worth checking out if you're looking for something with a theatrical feel rather than a conventional party.
14. Le Faux Halloween Night: Drag Show & Costume Contest
Seattle
October 31, 2026
Celebrate Halloween through drag, performance, and costume creativity. With a drag show and costume contest at its center, Le Faux offers a lively way to spend Halloween night while enjoying expressive looks, stage entertainment, and the art of transformation.
Plan Your Halloween Weekend
Whether you prefer stepping into a horror-inspired world, listening to haunting music by candlelight, dressing up for a rooftop party, or finding something fun for the whole family, Halloween 2026 has plenty of ways to celebrate. Many of these events take place on limited dates and may sell out, so check the official ticket listings for availability, age restrictions, location details, and admission information before making plans.
Read next:
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Immersive Art Experience: INTER_
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