New York City transforms into a massive playground during the Halloween season, offering visitors and residents a mix of spooky storytelling, carnival fun, and free cultural events suitable for all ages. Forget the scares and embrace the seasonal spirit with these five fantastic, family-friendly events across Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the historic South Street Seaport.
Seaside Spooks: South Street Seaport Museum
The historic South Street Seaport Museum offers several themed ways to celebrate the chilling histories of Lower Manhattan and New York’s waterfront.
Sinister Secrets of the Seaport Walking Tour
Running October 1 through 30, the “Sinister Secrets of the Seaport” is a 90-minute walking tour that explores the darker histories of the South Street Seaport Historic District and surrounding Lower Manhattan. The engaging tour guides share true historical stories of scandalous and dubious events ripped from 1790s and 1990s headlines. The experience, which includes a complimentary soft drink or alcoholic beverage at a local bar, also features an interactive “Ear for Crime” game with a prize for the winner. Registration is required for the tours, which run on various dates, including Saturday, October 18, and Wednesday, October 29.
Halloweekend at the Seaport Museum
On Saturday, October 25, the Seaport Museum hosts a “Halloweekend” event with free museum admission from 11 AM to 5 PM. Families can participate in a spooky scavenger hunt titled “Sailors’ Superstitions” aboard the tall ship Wavertree. Successful ghost hunters who collect all the superstitions will earn a special treat. This free admission day grants access to all museum exhibitions and historic ships at Piers 16 and 17.
Uptown Thrills and Cultural Fun
Beyond Manhattan’s downtown, the boroughs are hosting vibrant community celebrations, perfect for family outings.
Harlemween: The First & Largest Uptown Festival
The iconic arches on West 133rd Street in Harlem will be home to Harlemween: The Night Before the Night on Thursday, October 30, starting at 4 PM. As the first and largest Halloween festival in Harlem and Uptown, the free, all-ages event is a blend of a block party and a costume carnival, featuring live bands, local food vendors, and a large dance party.
Halloween Harvest Festival in Queens
Socrates Sculpture Park in Queens hosts the free Halloween Harvest Festival on Saturday, October 25, from 12 PM to 5 PM. The beloved community event features family-friendly workshops, pumpkin decorating, and a community fair. A major highlight is New York’s second-largest dog costume contest, co-presented with Chateau le Woof. RSVP for the free event here.
Brooklyn and Manhattan Park Adventures
Haunted Halloween Labyrinth
On Halloween night, Friday, October 31, Brooklyn Bridge Park transforms the Pier 3 Labyrinth into a free, walk-up “Haunted Halloween Labyrinth.” This slightly spooky experience is designed to be family-friendly and is perfect for youngsters. Costumes are encouraged, and candy will be handed out while supplies last. Get your free tickets here.
Randall’s Island Park Boo Bash
Randall’s Island Park hosts its free, family-friendly Halloween Boo Bash on Saturday, October 25, from 12 PM to 3 PM. Families are invited to wear costumes and join in themed activities, crafts, and music in the White Garden. The event also includes storytelling and treats from a local bakery.
