October is here, and it’s officially the Halloween season! Whether you’re looking to get scared, spend the day with the fam, or just enjoy some spooky themed food and drink, we’ve got you covered. There’s something for every Halloween fan in Philly this month.

 

(Photo by Michelle Reese)

Philadelphia Ghost Tour

When: Nightly now through November (weekends the rest of the year) at 7:30 p.m., plus additional tours at 9:30 p.m. on Saturdays
Where: Departs from Signers Garden at 5th and Chestnut Streets

Discover the secrets hidden in the shadows of America’s most historic and most haunted city! Join the Ghost Tour of Philadelphia for a candlelight walking tour along the back streets and secret gardens of Independence National Park, Old City, and Society Hill, where ghostly spirits, haunted houses, and eerie graveyards lurk in the night! Named one of the top 15 “must see” attractions in the US! Tickets are $24 per person ($16 for ages 4 through 12). Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Save $5 per ticket by booking online or calling 215-413-1997.

Sesame Place (Photo by Michelle Reese)

The Count’s Halloween Spooktacular

When: Now through November 3, Friday through Sunday
Where: Sesame Place, 100 Sesame Road, Langhorne

To celebrate Halloween, Sesame Place is fully decorated for the holiday. Special features include three Halloween-themed shows, trick-or-treating, the Neighborhood Street Party Halloween Parade, characters in costume and more.  Ticket prices vary, see site for details.

Pumpkin carving at Morgan’s Pier (Photo provided by Aversa PR)

Pumpkin Carving at Morgan’s Pier

When: Now through October 26, Saturday and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: 221 N. Columbus Blvd., Philadelphia

Morgan’s Pier will offer pumpkin carving on Saturdays and Sundays as part of its 5th Annual Fall Fest that runs September 25 through October 26. Pick a pumpkin from the Pier’s patch ($5 or $10) and grab a carving kit to create your own jack o’lantern.

“Young Frankenstein” (Photo by Mark Garvin, from website)

Young Frankenstein at Walnut Street Theatre

When: Now through October 20, select days, shows at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.; see site for details
Where: 825 Walnut Street, Philadelphia

It’s Alive! (And it’s Hilarious!) From the creators of the record-breaking Broadway sensation The Producers comes the monstrously mad musical, Young Frankenstein! Frederick Frankenstein (pronounced “Fronk-en-steen”) reluctantly inherits his infamous family’s estate in Transylvania. Urged on by a hunchbacked sidekick, Igor (pronounced “Eye-gore”), and a leggy lab assistant, Inga (pronounced normally), Frederick finds himself fulfilling his grandfather’s corpse-raising legacy. This electrifying musical stage adaptation of Mel Brooks’ brilliantly funny film will leave you in stitches!

Terror Behind the Walls (Photo from Facebook)

Terror Behind the Walls at Eastern State Penitentiary

When: Select nights now through November 9
Where: 22nd Street and Fairmount Avenue, Philadelphia

The historic Eastern State Penitentiary is once again transforming into a haunted house for the 2019 season of Terror Behind the Walls. For its 2019 season of scares, Terror Behind the Walls is bringing back six thrilling attractions with new interactive experiences that are more immersive than ever. All six attractions are included with tickets. Feeling brave? Opt in for true interactivity, and you may be grabbed, held back, sent into hidden passageways, and even temporarily separated from your group. Tickets are available online or at the door, subject to availability. Prices start at $24 and vary by night.

Nightmare Before Tinsel (Photo by Kory Aversa)

Halloween Pop-Up Bar Nightmare Before Tinsel

When: Opens Thursday, October 3 at 4 p.m. and will remain open through October 31; hours Monday through Thursday from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. and Friday through Sunday from 12 p.m. to 2 a.m.

The former home of Simpson’s Jewelry, and the home of Tinsel Christmas Bar for the last two years, will be converted from top to bottom, left to right and everything in between with scenes, images and custom art that bring Philadelphia’s Nightmare to life. Exhibits, props, decorations and photo opportunities will range from scary and gory, to ironic and funny, the retro and vintage. Bring your phones charged for selfies and snaps for everything from a haunted casket, skull wall, spiders web and zombie’s wall. At the bar, look for a custom giant bar top that celebrates the true ghosts of Halloween’s past, present and future – by artist Scott Johnston. Above the main bar, Nightmare trades in the grand Christmas Gift Chandelier for spooky spectres, ghastly ghosts and other things that go bump in the night. In the darkest and deepest corner and crevices of Nightmare, look for a truly eye-popping experience with the selfie room of 1,001 eyes in the haunted doll house. Only the brave are welcome – at your own risk.

(photo by Michelle Reese)

Poe-tober at Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site

When: Fridays through Sundays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (closed from noon to 1 p.m.)
Where: 532 N. 7th Street, Philadelphia

Mysteries and detective stories are the themes this October at the Edgar Allan Poe National Historic Site. Take part in a discussion with authors of mystery stories. Meet Ken Franklin (the Bark Ranger) and his park ranger partner to discover how canines assist in police work. Learn about true crime stories that may have inspired Poe. There’s something for everyone!

(Photo from Facebook)

Morris Arboretum Scarecrow Walk

When: October 5 – October 31, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Morris Arboretum, 100 E. Northwestern Ave., Philadelphia

Take a stroll along Oak Allée at the Morris Arboretum any day October 5 through Halloween to enjoy the more than 30 scarecrows lining the path. The display is part of the annual design contest with this year’s theme of  “Famous Musicians.” Come vote for your favorite. The Scarecrow Walk is free along with your paid admission to the arboretum.

Jack’s Pumpkin Glow (photo from website)

Jack’s Pumpkin Glow

When: Select dates through November 3
Where: West Fairmount Park, 5201 Parkside Avenue, Philadelphia

Take a leisurely walk and marvel at thousands of intricately-carved pumpkins! Take photos, enjoy seasonal snacks, and check out the master carvers as they demonstrate their artistry. You can also pick up your own pumpkin in the patch. Get tickets here.

Pumpkin Carving at Craft Hall

When: Starting October 9, Wednesday through Friday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 7 p.m.
Where: 901 N. Delaware Avenue, Philadelphia

Enjoy all your Craft Hall favorite food and drinks while creating some festive Halloween decor! Pick a pumpkin and snag a carving kit to make a stoop-worthy creation. Pumpkins costs $5-$10.

Boo at the Zoo (Photo courtesy of Michelle Reese)

Boo at the Zoo

When: Saturdays and Sundays, October 12, 13, 19, 20, 26 and 27 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Philadelphia Zoo, 3400 W. Girard Avenue, Philadelphia
Philadelphia Zoo’s annual Boo at the Zoo extravaganza is always a favorite family event! Put on your favorite costume and set out on a trick-or-treat safari. Walk through the not-so-scary Extinction Graveyard to learn about  the extinction of species that used to roam the planet. Enjoy festive fall offerings available for purchase throughout the Zoo: hot apple cider, reusable Boo at the Zoo trick-or-treat bags and much more. Run wild through the hay bale maze on Impala Lawn. Pose for a festive harvest picture in front of the giant pumpkin wall. Boo at the Zoo is included with the price of general Zoo admission. Zoo admission is $24.00 for Adults (ages 12 and up), $19.00 for children (2 to 11), and Free for Children under 2. Zoo members access Boo at the Zoo for free per their membership level.  (Please note: Halloween costumes with toy guns and weapons and adult masks are prohibited.)

(photo from Facebook)

Horcrux Hunt

When: Sunday, October 13 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Starts at the Victoria Freehouse, 10 S. Front Street, Philadelphia

Wands at the ready! Don your best Harry Potter or magical attire. There are dark forces at work in the wizarding world, and it’s up to you to help stop them. Follow clues and race against the clock to locate all of the Horcruxes in Old City before time is up. The event kicks off at the Victoria Freehouse with check-in at 1 p.m. Gametime is from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. There is no limit to the number of participants that can play on a team, but every individual participant must purchase a ticket. Tickets include a copy of “The Daily Prophet” and a wand.

Halloween Quizzo at Cannstatter Volksfest Verein

When: Thursday, October 17 at 8 p.m. and Thursday, October 31 at 7 p.m.
Where: 9130 Academy Road, Philadelphia

Come out for two nights of Halloween-themed trivia! Get in the Halloween spirit with Hocus Pocus Quizzo on October 17. Then come back for the main event on Halloween night. There will be a costume contest, candy, trivia, music, drink specials, food and prizes!

Witches & Wizards Festival

When: Friday, October 18 and Saturday, October 19
Where: Germantown Ave., Chestnut Hill, PA 19118

Formerly known as the Harry Potter Festival, this event will include a ticketed pub crawl on Friday night, extended hours at local businesses with sales/specials. Saturday’s events include costumed actors on the streets, a wizarding run, a quidditch tournament,  an haunted escape room, fire breathing, face painting, a dark magic scavenger hunt and more Halloween delights on the Hill.  Check the website for complete programming and ticket information.

Haunted Circus Mansion (Photo provided by Aversa PR)

Haunted Circus Mansion

When: Fridays, October 18 and 25 (adults only) from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Saturdays, October 19 and 26 (family nights) from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Where: Philadelphia School of Circus Arts, 6451 Greene Street, Philadelphia, PA (Parking in lot behind school)
Explore the dark and spooky paths inside one of Mt. Airy’s most mysterious and grand 100-year old properties. By day, the former St. Madeleine Sophie Church in West Mt. Airy is filled with laughter and joy of circus students learning a new skill. By night, the spirits come alive and enchant the dark hallways, cavernous classrooms and long-forgotten secret spaces. Friday nights are for adults only with a terrifying haunted trail, incredible performances, a chilling Escape Room and other attractions. Saturdays are family friendly. Look for classic Halloween characters from years gone by, with gentle scares, a trip on the tight-wire and trick-or-treating on the second floor from 6-8 p.m. Stick around on Saturdays from 7-10 p.m. to enjoy the haunted trail, escape room and other activities.

If you survive, you can find your way to the church Sanctuary, where a Halloween celebration awaits with drinks, entertainment and a haunted circus showcase. Shows run every thirty minutes. Activities run all night. For more information, visit phillycircus.com/haunted-circus. Tickets are $10 for general admission, $5 for kids 10 and under.

Harvest Festival at Reading Terminal Market

When: Saturday, October 19 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: 12th and Arch Streets, Philadelphia

Filbert Street will be transformed into a beautiful harvest scene full of hay and a pumpkin patch. Sample local foods of the Pennsylvania harvest, live music, arts & crafts, hay rides, an outdoor beer garden, & more! Rain or shine! Filbert Street is under cover. The event to free to enter. Food & drink is pay as you go.

East Passyunk Witch CRAFT Beer Crawl (Photo provided by Aversa PR)

East Passyunk Witch CRAFT Beer Crawl

When: Wednesday, October 23 from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Where: East Passyunk Avenue
Let East Passyunk Avenue cast its spell on you during the 10th Annual Witch CRAFT Beer Crawl.  Up to 500 witches will enjoy seasonal craft beers bubbling up in cauldrons at more than a dozen bars and restaurants. Tickets are $6.66 and include $4.00 craft beers, a witch hat and a Witch CRAFT stamp card. Earn a stamp by purchasing a craft beer, food or other beverage at participating locations. Collect five or more stamps to be entered to win a gift certificate prize package worth $300.00+. Keep a keen eye and ear out for music, entertainment, and other surprises on the Avenue, food specials, a costume contest and much more. Proceeds benefit EPABID’s cleaning and greening programs. For more information call 215-336-1455 and follow @eastpassyunk on Instagram. Register in advance at www.visiteastpassyunk.com or that night at Garage Passyunk (1231 East Passyunk).

The Franklin Institute’s Science After Hours: Wizard School

When: Thursday, October 24 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Where: 222 N. 20th Street, Philadelphia

Class is in session at The Franklin School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. From potions to fantastic beasts—the magic is real as The Franklin Institute transforms into a wonderland of science on this enchanted evening. This event is for ages 21+. Tickets are $25 for Non-Members and $20 for Members.

DCP Theatre Presents Frankenstein

DCP Theatre Presents Frankenstein

When: Show runs October 25 through November 9; Oct 25, 26, 31, Nov 1, 2, 7, 8, 9 at 8 p.m. and October 27 and November 3 at 2 p.m.
Where: DCP Theatre, 795 Ridge Road, Telford

The production team that brought you Sherlock Holmes: The Final Adventure brings the horrifying tale of Frankenstein to life on the DCP stage! A faithful adaptation of the original novel by Mary Shelley, the story of Victor Frankenstein and his obsession with the re-animation of the human body will make your blood run cold. Dr. Frankenstein’s experiment is successful, and the power which he yields is great, but it doesn’t take long before he realizes the terrible consequences of his arrogant actions. His creature, which first brought a brilliant new perception of life, is only capable of devastating the lives around him. Please note: This production includes strobe lights, fog, gunshots and violent scenes that may be uncomfortable for some audience members.

There will be special showing of Frankenstein in honor of Halloween on October 31st. Tickets are $18 per person. They are available at the door, online at www.dcptheatre.com or by calling (215) 234-0966. Groups of 10 or more may contact the box office by emailing boxoffice@dcptheatre.com for a reduced rate.

East Passyunk Spooky Saturday (Photo provided by Aversa PR)

East Passyunk Fall Fest and Spooky Saturday

When: Saturday, October 26 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: East Passyunk Avenue around the Singing Fountain and along the Avenue
East Passyunk Avenue Business Improvement District (EPABID) presents a full day of spooktacular fun with free activities for kids, adults and even fido too! Family activities include costume contests (for children and dogs), pumpkin decorating, arts and crafts, storytime reading, live music, scarecrow scavenger hunt, trick or treating, pet treats and more. For the grown-ups, enjoy live music, 40+ craft and arts vendors, fall fare, spirited cocktails, and more. Businesses between the Singing Fountain and McKean Street will open doors to trick or treaters. Most activities will be held at the Singing Fountain (EPA and Tasker), with select activities to be held at Mifflin Triangle (EPA and Mifflin) and a scarecrow scavenger hunt all along the Avenue.

South Street Pumpkin Fest (Photo provided by Aversa PR)

South Street Pumpkin Fest

When: Saturday, October 26 from noon to 5 p.m.
Where: Headhouse Square (2nd and Lombard)

Philadelphia’s largest Halloween festival and trick or treating program is back! South Street Headhouse District (SSHD) presents tricks and treats for adults and children of all ages during South Street Pumpkin Fest. PumpkinFest features live music, shopping, seasonal bites and brews, straw bale maze, live performances, horse and wagon hay rides, face painting, pumpkin decorating and more. South Street businesses will open their doors for trick or treating (children 12 and under). PumpkinFest is free, with food, drink and shopping pay-as-you-go.

Ardmore Halloween Spooktacular

When: Saturday, October 26 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: Downtown Ardmore

Join local businesses in celebrating Halloween with a mini-parade, candy hunt, and more!

Morgan’s Pier (Photo credit: Credit Jason Melcher)

Morgan’s Pier Halloween Party

When: Saturday, October 26 from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Where: 221 N Christopher Columbus Blvd.

This spooky spectacle features an all-night open bar bash, costume contest, free hot dogs, and festive decor set-up for attendees to help drink the bar inventory dry. Hosted by Brittany Lynn, “The Don” of Philly’s Drag Mafia, Morgan’s Pier Halloween Party features cash prizes. Entry is $55 in advance, $65 at the door. Last year’s Halloween sold out, so it’s recommended to purchase early. Stayed tuned for more ticketing details at https://www.morganspier.com/2019events.

(Photo from Facebook)

Haunted Ship Halloween Party on The Moshulu

When: Saturday, October 26 from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Where: 401 S. Columbus Blvd.

Celebrate Halloween at one of Philly’s most haunted attractions. The party will feature a live jazz band in the ballroom, a Hip-Hop room with DJ Jay-Ski and a DJ dance party on the heated enclosed main deck. VIP tickets are available and feature a 2-hour open bar. Costumes are strongly encouraged but not required. Tickets are $15 for general admission and $35 for VIP. This is a 21 and over event.

Nick’s Bar and Grille Old City Halloween Party

When: Saturday, October 26 from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Where: 16 South Second Street, Philadelphia

Come out for a night of spooks and spirits at Nick’s Bar and Grille’s Annual Halloween Party in Old City! Enjoy a spirited line-up of menu additions, drink specials, costume contest, candy, giveaways, karaoke and more! Party and specials start at 9 p.m. and Karaoke with DJ Lars Peterson. Enter the costume contest to compete for the $100 cash prize at Midnight. Specials include “Monsterella” sticks served with a spicy fra diavolo sauce, “Gouhlash” eggrolls, and “Fun size” spicy shrimp burgers. From the bar, don’t miss Zombie shots (dark rum,brandy, pineapple, fruit juice), discounted Buckets of Beer and Pumpkin-tinis.

Concourse Dance Bar (Photo provided by Aversa PR)

Halloweekend at Concourse Dance Bar

When: Saturday, October 26 from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Where: 1635 Market St.

Kick off your Halloweekend with an awesome party at Concourse Dance Bar! Special guest Drag Queens will host and DJs will be headlining the evening. Don’t miss cash prizes for best costume and drink specials all night long, three bars, ball pit, and more this Halloweekend! Tickets will be available for $10 online before October 26th or $15 at the door.

Piazza Pod Park Halloween Super Saturday

When: Saturday, October 26 from noon to 10 p.m.
Where: 1075 Germantown Avenue
Piazza Pod Park hosts its first annual Halloween Weekend starting with Halloween Super Saturday on Saturday, October 26. Calling all the little ghosts and ghouls! During the day, head to Northern Liberties with the family for the Piazza Pod Park Trick or Treat Party from noon to 4 p.m. Enjoy the haunted DJ playing spooky family favorites on the stage. Wear a costume and trick or treat around the Pods. Make and take your own trick or treat bag for Halloween, enjoy free arts and crafts, enter the children’s costume contest and win prizes! Look for special added vendors for bonus fun! By night, grown-ups will enjoy live music and DJ. Pod Park vendors will be serving up sweets, treats and specials – including bewitched spirits and adult beverages.

5th Annual Mischief at the Mütter

When: Thursday, October 31 from 6:30 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Where: Mütter Museum, 19 S. 22nd Street, Philadelphia

A precarious party full of marvel and fright is brewing at the Mütter for another night. Enjoy tasty drinks from the bar and view the collections, but watch out for the spirits or you may need some protection! Get ready to BoOoO-gie to some spooky sounds from DJ Paul T of DJSC. Don’t miss out on some spectacular performances throughout the evening including the Philadelphia School of Circus Arts Performers and Project Moshen Dance Company. Dare to look behind the veil? Sign up for a tarot reading! Costumes are strongly encouraged. There will be a Mütter Costume Contest with fabulous Mütter prizes! Every ticket includes two complimentary alcoholic beverages and free snacks (popcorn, pretzels, candy). Additional alcoholic beverages may be purchased. Purchase tickets here.

Rosy’s Taco Bar Celebrates Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead)

When: Thursday, October 31 through Saturday, November 2
Where: 2220 Walnut St.

Día de los Muertos—Day of the Dead—is a Mexican holiday that honors deceased loved ones. In celebration, Rosy’s Taco Bar is throwing a three-day fiesta featuring food and bar specials, giveaways, family-friendly activities, live entertainment, late-night fun, and more! BYO costumes and makeup!

We Are Supported By:




Join Our Community. Click here to learn more