Where to find Halloween and fall fun in the D.C. area

Hard to believe it’s already mid-October. That means the fall festivals, corn mazes, ghost tours, and other seasonal fun events have long been in full swing. It also means Halloween is right around the corner. 

Looking for something to do with the kids? Maybe some old-fashioned fun? Perhaps something a little ghoulish? Here are some ideas of the many things there are to do in the D.C. area to celebrate Halloween.

Boo at the Zoo

A perennial classic in the District, the National Zoo’s “Boo at the Zoo” event takes place one weekend every year. Featuring over 40 treat stations, pumpkin carving demos, “scary-oke”, and other entertainment. Kids get all sorts of goodies at the treat stations, but the zoo hasn’t forgotten the adults. They are offered food and craft beer tastings. Check the zoo’s website for dates, times, entertainment, and admission prices for the current year.

District Wharf

Having made its debut in D.C. during fall 2017, the District Wharf opened with new restaurants, shopping, entertainment, and one-stop family night out. It looks as if they’ll be offering various special events throughout the year. In 2017, “Pumpkin Palooza” is being held. See the headless horseman, enjoy pumpkin-themed activities, such as pumpkin bowling, pumpkin pie-eating contest, pets’ costume contest, live music, and more. It’s too early to say whether or not this will be an annual event, but chances are there will be some family-friendly event offered.  

Update Oct. 2018: I don't see this event on the current calendar. Maybe next year?

Update Sept. 2019: Looks like the calendar changes from year to year. Check the Wharf’s website to see what’s on their schedule.

Trick-or-Treat at Mount Vernon

A newer tradition at Mount Vernon is trick or treating with other “spook-tacular” activities. The kids can wear their costumes (there is a contest for best George and Martha costumes with prizes), participate in a parade around the mansion and go trick-or-treating. Other fun includes a wagon ride, special scavenger hunt, and crafts. Visitors can also enjoy 18th-century entertainment and watch demonstrations highlighting life in Colonial days. See Mount Vernon's website for current dates and times. Event takes place rain or shine.  

Fall festivals at historic properties

Many of the area's historic properties offer family fun during October. I invite you to check out my post highlighting some of the perennial events you can find in the region. Celebrate the season and learn some history in the process!

Family fun on the local farms

Northern Virginia has many farms that convert their fields to fall family fun. Each farm offers something a little different but some of the attractions include pumpkin picking, hayrides, giant slides, corn mazes, and much more. I’ve explored several the farms (this post goes into far more detail about family fun on the local farms) but I know there are others and that’s without even looking into Maryland.

Looking for something else? Maybe a ghost tour? I have a post that outlines all sorts of cool events highlighting numerous family fun events (and some freakishly-scary stuff!)

See what's planned across the region. Additionally, the Fairfax County Park Authority offers numerous fall family fun events throughout the county (many of these events require registration).  

Happy Halloween!