And another 5 to checkout
The Blaze
We first discovered the Blaze in 2017. And wow. We were just blown away by the creativity and charm of this event. We’ve been a couple of times since, whenever we’re in the northeast.
The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze is not your average pumpkin patch. Imagine walking through an 18th-century landscape illuminated by over 7,000 hand-carved pumpkins. From towering pumpkin sculptures to themed displays, this event transforms the night into a glowing wonderland.
The Hudson Valley Blaze runs from September 13 to November 17, while the Long Island Blaze lights up from October 4 to November 3.
Nearby Sleepy Hollow
We’ve only been to the Hudson Valley Blaze. That one is not far from the historic village of Sleepy Hollow, NY. The village was memorialized in Washington Irving’s 1820 short story, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. Irving is buried in Sleepy Hollow Cemetery. And between the history of the village and the Blaze, spending a day here is a fantastic Halloween treat.
Blaze Locations
- Hudson Valley: Set against the historic backdrop of Van Cortlandt Manor in Croton-on-Hudson, this location offers a picturesque setting that enhances the magical atmosphere. The walk-through experience is designed to be enjoyed at your own pace, allowing you to fully appreciate the artistry of each display.
- Long Island: Held at Old Bethpage Village Restoration, this location brings a similar enchantment to Long Island, with its own unique displays and historic charm. The village setting adds an extra layer of immersion, making you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
What you can expect at the Blaze
- Pumpkin Planetarium: One of the most awe-inspiring displays, the Pumpkin Planetarium features pumpkins carved to resemble the night sky, complete with constellations and celestial bodies.
- Medieval Castle: A towering structure made entirely of pumpkins, this display is a favorite for photo ops.
- Pumpkin Carousel: A whimsical, rotating display that delights visitors of all ages.
- Pumpkin Zee Bridge: A Jack O’Lantern version of the famed Hudson River crossing. I know, I know, it’s not the Tappan Zee Bridge anymore officially.
The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze is much more than just a visual feast. It’s a celebration of community and creativity. Each pumpkin is hand-carved by a team of local artists, making every visit unique. The event supports Historic Hudson Valley, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the region’s history and culture. We loved the Blaze and I know when you go, you will, too.
Village Halloween Parade
If you’re looking for an unforgettable Halloween experience, New York City’s Village Halloween Parade is the event you can’t afford to miss. Celebrating its 51st year on Thursday, October 31, 2024, this parade is a dazzling display of creativity, community spirit, and sheer fun.
What to Expect
The Village Halloween Parade is a unique spectacle that transforms the streets of Greenwich Village into a carnival of costumes, music, and dance. The parade kicks off at 7 PM and runs until around 10 PM, rain or shine. Organizers announced the 2024 Theme – Meow! – and Grand Marshal – Andre De Shields – in September.
How to Participate
Participation in the parade is free, but there’s one golden rule: you must be in costume. Whether you’re channeling your inner ghost, superhero, or something entirely out of this world, creativity is key. The parade lines up at Sixth Avenue and Canal Street, with the procession rolling out from 6:30 PM to 9 PM.
The Route
The parade marches straight up Sixth Avenue from Spring Street to 16th Street. This route offers plenty of vantage points for spectators, but if you want a prime spot, it’s wise to arrive early. The energy is palpable as the parade winds its way through the heart of Greenwich Village, with thousands of participants and spectators joining in the fun.
Why You Should Go
The Village Halloween Parade is not just a parade; it’s a cultural phenomenon. It’s the largest Halloween parade in the world and one of the few nighttime parades in the U.S. The event brings together people from all walks of life, united by their love for Halloween and the arts. The parade features hundreds of giant puppets, 50+ bands playing various types of music, dancers, artists, and thousands of New Yorkers in their most creative costumes.
What you should know about the Village Halloween Parade
- The 51st Annual New York’s Village Halloween Parade will take place on Thursday, October 31, 2024, at 7 p.m.
- It’s considered the nation’s largest public Halloween celebration, attracting over 2 million attendees and 1 million TV viewers.
- The parade route runs along 6th Avenue from Spring Street to 15th Street in Greenwich Village.
- Only costumed participants are allowed to march in the parade, with line-up beginning at 6:30 p.m.
- The event features hundreds of puppets, 53 bands, dancers, artists, and thousands of costumed New Yorkers.
- It has received numerous accolades, including being named “The Greatest Event on Earth” for October 31 by Festivals International.
- The parade has significant cultural and economic impact, bringing an estimated $120 million in tourism dollars to New York City.
- It’s organized by a non-profit organization and has been supported by various sponsors and grants over the years.
Since you can march in the parade, watch from the route, or on TV, there are many ways for Halloween lovers to get involved. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the Village Halloween Parade offers a unique and thrilling way to celebrate Halloween. So grab your costume, bring your friends, and get ready to experience one of New York City’s most beloved traditions.
Blood Manor
We’ve had a fair amount of whimsy. But it’s New York. And a list of New York City’s Halloween Events would not be complete without at least one terrifying Halloween adventure. Enter Blood Manor.
Located in Tribeca, Blood Manor has been terrifying thrill-seekers since 2005, making it a staple in the city’s Halloween festivities. This 10,000-square-foot labyrinth of horror is not for the faint of heart, offering an immersive experience.
Producers design Blood Manor to push your limits. From the moment you step inside, you’re enveloped in a world of terror, where every corner hides a new nightmare. Expect to encounter everything from bloodthirsty zombies and deranged clowns to haunted dolls and sinister butchers. The attraction is updated annually to keep even the most seasoned horror fans on their toes.
Expected 2024 Scares
- The Crypt: Begin your journey in this eerie, candle-lit chamber, where the undead rise from their tombs.
- The Slaughterhouse: Navigate through a grotesque butcher shop, where the line between human and meat is horrifyingly blurred.
- The Dollhouse: Enter a twisted realm filled with life-sized dolls that are anything but innocent.
- The Asylum: Face the deranged patients of a haunted asylum, each more terrifying than the last.
Blood Manor isn’t just another haunted house; it’s an institution. With nearly two decades of fear-inducing history, it has perfected the art of horror. The attraction is meticulously designed to create an immersive experience, complete with Hollywood-quality makeup, costumes, and special effects. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the ultimate in Halloween thrills.
Blood Manor is conveniently located at 359 Broadway, making it easily accessible by public transportation. The attraction operates on select nights from late September through early November, with extended hours closer to Halloween.
Boo at the Zoo and Pumpkin Nights at the Bronx Zoo
The Bronx Zoo has two terrific family-friendly Halloween events. We’re going to take them one at a time, but encourage you to enjoy both with your own little trick or treaters.
Boo at the Zoo
Boo at the Zoo at the Bronx Zoo is a must-visit event. This annual celebration transforms the zoo into a magical, spooky wonderland where kids and adults alike can enjoy a variety of Halloween-themed activities. Boo at the Zoo offers a perfect blend of wildlife, adventure, and seasonal festivities.
The event runs every weekend from September 28 through October 27, including Monday, October 14. Admission to the Zoo gets you into the festivities. But remember, admission must be purchased in advance. Additionally, the Bronx Zoo uses a timed-entry system. When you reserve tickets you pick both the date and time you expect to arrive.
What’s New for Boo at the Zoo
- Costume Parade: Kids (and adults) are encouraged to wear their Halloween costumes and join the daily costume parade. It’s a fantastic opportunity for families to show off their creative ensembles and maybe even win a prize.
- Halloween Maze: Find your way through a maze and complete a scavenger hunt to learn about so-called “spooky” animals and bust some creepy myths.
- Creepy Crawly Mystery Wall: Touch and feel mysterious textures and materials to learn about animals and other creatures!
- Pumpkin Carving Demos: Watch expert carvers transform ordinary pumpkins into extraordinary works of art. These demos provide plenty of inspiration for your own jack-o’-lanterns.
- Spooky Walks and Haunted Forest: Brave the Haunted Forest, where you’ll encounter spooky surprises around every corner. For younger kids, the Spooky Walk offers a less intense but equally fun adventure.
- Magic Shows and Live Entertainment: Enjoy mesmerizing magic shows, puppet performances, and musical acts that add to the festive atmosphere.
Boo at the Zoo is more than just a Halloween event; it’s an opportunity to connect with wildlife and nature in a fun and engaging way. The event supports the Bronx Zoo’s mission of wildlife conservation and education, making it a feel-good outing for the whole family. Plus, the zoo’s beautiful autumn setting provides a picturesque backdrop for all your Halloween photos.
Pumpkin Nights
This enchanting nighttime event transforms the zoo into a glowing wonderland of pumpkins, lights, and festive fun. Running on select evenings from September 26 through October 27, 2024, Pumpkin Nights offers a unique way to celebrate the spooky season.
Like Hudson Valley’s Blaze, Pumpkin Nights features thousands of hand-carved jack-o’-lanterns, immersive light displays, and themed attractions that create a whimsical and festive atmosphere. As you stroll through the zoo after dark, you’ll encounter a variety of interactive experiences designed to delight visitors of all ages.
Pumpkin Nights 2024 Highlights
- Pumpkin Trail: Wander through a path lined with intricately carved pumpkins and illuminated displays. Each section of the trail offers a different theme, from spooky scenes to whimsical fairy tales.
- Jack O’Lantern Tower: Marvel at the towering display of stacked pumpkins, each one uniquely carved to create a stunning visual effect.
- Pumpkin Carvers: Watch as expert pumpkin carvers create amazing animal images.
Guests need to purchase a separate admission to attend Pumpkin Nights. And like Boo at the Zoo, Pumpkin Nights uses a timed entry ticketing system.
No matter which you choose, and why not both, Halloween at the Bronx Zoo is a terrific time.
Halloween House
If you’re searching for a Halloween event that combines spooky fun with family-friendly activities, Halloween House is the place to be. Producers designed Halloween House to be a safe, fun, and interactive experience that appeals to both kids and adults. Unlike typical haunted houses that focus solely on scares, Halloween House emphasizes creativity, artistry, and family-friendly fun.
Halloween House stands out for its commitment to creating a magical and enjoyable Halloween experience for visitors of all ages. The attention to detail in the decorations, the variety of themed rooms, and the interactive elements all contribute to a memorable outing. It’s a fantastic way to celebrate the season, whether you’re a Halloween enthusiast or just looking for a fun day out with the family.
I had hoped we’d have a location for 2024’s Halloween House before we hit publish. But we’ll update once it is announced.
What we think the 2024 will be like
- Themed Rooms: Each Halloween House location boasts a variety of themed rooms, each meticulously decorated to create an immersive experience. Popular themes include the “Trick or Treat Room,” “Glow in the Dark Room,” and “Haunted Forest.”
- Interactive Exhibits: Engage with interactive displays that allow you to become part of the Halloween story. Whether it’s navigating through a spooky maze or participating in a scavenger hunt, there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained.
- Photo Opportunities: With elaborately decorated sets and props, Halloween House is a photographer’s dream. Capture memorable moments with your family and friends in front of stunning backdrops.
- Family-Friendly Scares: While there are plenty of spooky elements, Halloween House is designed to be fun rather than frightening. It’s an ideal destination for families with young children who want to enjoy the Halloween spirit without the intense scares of traditional haunted houses.
Halloween House offers a delightful blend of spooky fun and family-friendly activities that make it a standout attraction for the Halloween season. With its immersive themed rooms, interactive exhibits, and special events, it’s an experience that promises to enchant visitors of all ages. So gather your family and friends, don your favorite costumes, and head to Halloween House for a magical and memorable Halloween adventure.
Fall-o-Ween at the New York Botanical Garden
For a delightful and immersive fall experience, Fall-O-Ween at the New York Botanical Garden (NYBG) is an event that captures the essence of the season. Running from September 16 through November 12, 2023, this annual celebration transforms the garden into a vibrant autumnal wonderland, offering a variety of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages.
The event is perfect for families, couples, and anyone looking to enjoy the beauty of autumn in a serene and picturesque setting. With its diverse range of activities and attractions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Plus, your visit supports the garden’s mission of plant research, conservation, and education.
2024 Fall-O-Ween Highlights
- Giant Pumpkin Display: Marvel at the impressive display of giant pumpkins, some weighing over a thousand pounds. These massive gourds are a highlight of the event and make for fantastic photo opportunities.
- Scarecrow Walk: Stroll through the garden and encounter an array of creatively designed scarecrows. Each one is crafted by local artists, schools, and community groups, adding a touch of whimsy to the landscape.
- Pumpkin Carving Demonstrations: Watch as expert carvers transform ordinary pumpkins into extraordinary works of art. These demonstrations provide plenty of inspiration for your own pumpkin carving projects.
- Spooky Garden Nights: On select evenings, the garden stays open late for Spooky Garden Nights. Explore the grounds by lantern light, enjoy live performances, and participate in fun activities like costume parades and trick-or-treating.
- Seasonal Crafts and Activities: Engage in hands-on activities such as pumpkin painting, scarecrow making, and other fall-themed crafts. These activities are perfect for children and provide a great way to get creative.
- Culinary Experiences: Savor the flavors of fall with culinary demonstrations and tastings. Learn how to make seasonal dishes and beverages using fresh, local ingredients.
Fall-O-Ween takes place at the New York Botanical Garden, located at 2900 Southern Boulevard, Bronx, NY. The garden is open from 10 AM to 6 PM, with extended hours for Spooky Garden Nights on select dates.
If you love fall like I do, I know this celebration of all things autumn is for you. You’ll find a full day of activities and experiences that capture the spirit of the season. Whether you’re marveling at giant pumpkins, crafting with your kids, or enjoying a spooky evening stroll, this event promises a memorable and magical fall outing.
US Ghost Adventures NYC Ghost Tour
Unlike the other events, NYC Ghosts runs year-round. So even if you cant get to the City for Halloween, you can capture the spirit of Halloween any time you go.
This tour takes you through some of the most haunted locations in New York City, blending history with ghostly tales for a memorable night out. Here’s what you need to know about this eerie adventure.
These tours remind me of the cool tours of Salem. The New York Ghost Tour is a guided walking tour that explores the haunted history of Manhattan. Led by knowledgeable and entertaining guides, the tour covers a variety of sites known for their paranormal activity. You’ll hear stories of hauntings, legends, and unexplained occurrences that have been passed down through generations. The tour is designed to be both educational and entertaining, making it suitable for ghost enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Tour Highlights
- Historic Locations: The tour covers several historic locations in Manhattan, each with its own unique ghost stories. Sites may include haunted theaters, old hotels, and eerie alleyways.
- Spooky Tales: Learn about the ghosts that are said to haunt these locations, from restless spirits of the past to more recent paranormal encounters. The guides provide detailed and engaging narratives that bring these stories to life.
- Photo Opportunities: Many of the stops on the tour offer great photo opportunities, whether you’re trying to capture a ghostly apparition or simply want a memorable shot of a historic site.
- Interactive Experience: The tour is interactive, with guides encouraging questions and participation from the group. This makes for a more engaging and personalized experience.
- Flexible Scheduling: Tours are available on various days and times, making it easy to fit into your schedule. Evening tours add an extra layer of spookiness as you explore the city under the cover of darkness.
The New York Ghost Tour typically starts in a central location in Manhattan, making it easily accessible by public transportation. Tours are offered on various days and times, with evening tours being particularly popular for their added eerie atmosphere.
The New York Ghost Tour by US Ghost Adventures offers a unique and thrilling way to explore the haunted history of one of the world’s most iconic cities. With its blend of spooky tales, historic sites, and engaging guides, it’s an experience that promises to be both fun and unforgettable.
Headless Horseman
If you’re looking for one of the most thrilling and comprehensive Halloween experiences in the Hudson Valley, the Headless Horseman Hayrides & Haunted Houses in Ulster Park, NY, is a must-visit. Recognized as one of America’s top haunted attractions, this event offers a mix of frights and fun across multiple themed attractions.
Headless Horseman Hayrides & Haunted Houses has been delivering spine-chilling entertainment for over 30 years. Set on a 65-acre historic farm, the event features a haunted hayride, multiple haunted houses, and a variety of other attractions that provide a fully immersive Halloween experience. The site is meticulously designed with professional set pieces, actors, and special effects to ensure a night of unforgettable scares.
Headless Horseman Hayrides & Haunted Houses Highlights
- The Haunted Hayride: This is the centerpiece of the Headless Horseman experience. The mile-long hayride takes you through dark woods and eerie landscapes, where you’ll encounter live actors, animatronics, and elaborate scenes designed to terrify.
- The Lunar Motel: Check into this haunted hotel where the guests never leave. Each room is filled with nightmarish surprises and ghostly apparitions.
- Glutton’s Diner & Slaughterhouse: Enter a diner where the menu is more horrifying than you can imagine. The slaughterhouse next door reveals the gruesome source of the diner’s special ingredients.
- The Horseman’s Tomb: Explore the final resting place of the Headless Horseman. This haunted house is filled with crypts, tombstones, and restless spirits.
- Nightshade Nursery & Greenhouse: Wander through a haunted greenhouse where the plants seem to have a life of their own, and the gardeners are out for blood.
- The Feeding: A terrifying journey through a forest where creatures of the night hunt for their next meal. Will you be their prey?
- Two Raven’s Manor: A haunted mansion filled with ghostly inhabitants and dark secrets. Each room tells a different story of horror and tragedy.
- The Hollow: Navigate through a cursed corn maze where the scarecrows are anything but friendly, and getting lost could be deadly.
- Dark Harvest Corn Maze: Another corn maze, but this one is filled with supernatural elements and dark magic. Can you find your way out?
- The Horseman’s Nightmares: A series of nightmarish scenarios that bring your deepest fears to life. This attraction plays on psychological horror and phobias.
- Dr. Dark’s Side Show: A freak show filled with bizarre and terrifying acts. The performers here are not what they seem, and the show is guaranteed to shock.
- The Blood Inn: A haunted inn where the guests are long dead, but their spirits remain. Each room reveals a different horror story.
- The Attic: Climb into the attic of a haunted house where forgotten relics and restless spirits reside. The past comes to life in horrifying ways.
Headless Horseman Hayrides & Haunted Houses is located at 778 Broadway Route 9W, Ulster Park, NY. The event typically runs from late September through early November, with operating hours varying by day.
Headless Horseman Hayrides & Haunted Houses offers a comprehensive and thrilling Halloween experience that stands out for its creativity and attention to detail. With 13 unique attractions, it provides a night of endless scares and entertainment. Whether you’re a horror enthusiast or just looking for a fun night out, this event is sure to deliver an unforgettable Halloween adventure.
Other Halloween Happenings in New York City
Here are five more fantastic options that capture the spirit of the season:
- Halloween Harvest at Luna Park This family-friendly event transforms Coney Island’s Luna Park into a festive autumn wonderland. Visitors can enjoy pumpkin painting, trick-or-treating, and themed rides alongside the park’s regular attractions. The combination of Halloween fun and classic amusement park thrills makes this a perfect outing for families looking to celebrate the season in a uniquely New York way.
- Nightmare Machine For those seeking a truly terrifying experience, the Nightmare Machine offers an immersive and intense haunted house adventure. This interactive horror experience pushes the boundaries of traditional scares, using cutting-edge technology and professional actors to create a truly nightmarish scenario. It’s not for the faint of heart, but thrill-seekers will find it an unforgettable Halloween attraction.
- Queens County Farm Museum’s Amazing Maize Maze Embrace the autumn spirit at this charming corn maze adventure. The Queens County Farm Museum’s annual maze offers a fun, challenging experience for visitors of all ages. As you navigate the three-acre labyrinth, you’ll enjoy the crisp fall air and beautiful farm scenery. It’s a perfect way to celebrate the harvest season without focusing solely on Halloween.
- Danse Macabre: The Plague Years This unique event combines immersive theater with historical horror. Set in a 19th-century church, Danse Macabre transports visitors to plague-ridden medieval Europe. The atmospheric setting and professional performances create a spine-chilling experience that’s both entertaining and educational, offering a glimpse into the darker side of history.
- Halloween Pumpkin Flotilla in Central Park For a magical Halloween experience, don’t miss the annual Pumpkin Flotilla in Central Park. This enchanting event features a flotilla of lit jack-o’-lanterns sailing across the Harlem Meer at twilight. Visitors can enjoy festive crafts, spooky stories, and a costume parade before watching the illuminated pumpkins set sail. It’s a uniquely New York way to celebrate Halloween that captures the wonder of the season.
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