News Summary
As Halloween approaches, families in the Washington, DC area can enjoy a variety of festive events leading up to October 31. From haunted houses and science activities to cozy mini-vacations, there is something for everyone. Highlights include interactive experiences at the LEGO Discovery Center, spooky science fun at the Children’s Science Center Lab, and the ever-popular Boo at the Zoo. Local parks also host Halloween-themed train rides and mini-golf, ensuring adventures across the board. Families can partake in free storytimes, crafts, and an array of fall festivals, creating unforgettable memories this spooky season.
Washington, DC – Exciting Halloween Events Thrill Families Across the Area
As Halloween approaches, the Washington, DC area is buzzing with festive activities for families leading up to October 31. A variety of events are available, ranging from haunted houses to themed science activities, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy this spooky season.
One of the highlights is the Thomas Jefferson Community Theatre in Arlington, VA, which is presenting “The Best Haunted House Ever” until October 6. Admission is priced at $13 for children and $16 for adults, making it a manageable outing for families with children aged 6 and older.
Throughout October, the LEGO Discovery Center features “Brick-or-Treat: Monster Party”. This delightful event runs until October 31, with admission starting at $25, and includes interactive experiences like a Potion Kitchen and a special Halloween build activity.
The Children’s Science Center Lab is also celebrating Halloween with a Haunted Lab that hosts spooky science activities from October 4 to 26. Families can enjoy the fun for just $15 per admission.
For those who enjoy train rides, the “Eye Spy” Halloween Trains operate at Cabin John and Wheaton Regional Parks every weekend in October, with rides costing $6 each.
Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg, VA, and Perryville, MD, offers a Halloween-themed getaway, featuring special activities until October 31, with varying admission prices making it a unique option for families looking to enjoy a mini-vacation.
Numerous fall festivals are also taking place across the DC area, many of which include Halloween-themed fun running until early November, with diverse admission prices to suit all budgets. Families can also take advantage of free Halloween-themed storytimes and crafts for children available at DC Public Libraries throughout the month.
Families can try their luck at Goblin Golf at Burke Lake Park, which runs on weekends from October 4 to 19 and costs $10 for a Halloween-themed mini-golf experience. For those looking for a cinematic experience, the Boardwalk Halloween Movie Series at Yards Park in DC will screen family-friendly Halloween movies from October 10 to 24, with free admission.
The Maryland Science Center in Baltimore is hosting “Spooky Science” events on October 11, with tickets priced at $26.95 for adults and $20.95 for ages 3-12. The Pumpkin Patch Express on the East Broad Top Railroad takes place on select dates in October, with ticket prices ranging from $22 to $32.
The National Zoo offers its popular “Boo at the Zoo” event from October 17-19, with admission at $25 for members and $35 for non-members, promising a fun time for animal lovers and Halloween enthusiasts alike.
The Adventure Park at Sandy Spring features “Halloween Glow in the Park” experiences from October 17 to November 1, with a $56 admission fee. Meanwhile, Soul Strolls at Congressional Cemetery will explore fascinating stories from the past on multiple dates, priced at $40 for adults and $30 for ages 5-14.
The Puppet Co. in Glen Echo Park presents “Jenny the Cat: A Halloween Adventure”, running from October 18 to November 3 with tickets priced at $16. On the same day, Halloween in the Garden at Annmarie Sculpture Garden charges $5 online or $10 at the gate.
Families can look forward to the GMU Center for the Arts Family Halloween Concert on October 18, with tickets ranging from $24-45, recommended for children aged 2-8. Additionally, the Spooky Pooch Howl-o-ween Celebration at Hillwood Museum & Gardens will take place on October 18 with an admission fee of $13 for adults.
A Family Costume Party at the Children’s Science Center Lab will occur on the same day, requiring a $15 entry fee. Several other events throughout DC and its suburbs, such as PumpkinPalooza, the High Heel Race, and trick-or-treating at historic sites, are set to provide festive activities for families leading up to Halloween.
As the month progresses, various customs and events for Halloween and DÃa de los Muertos will continue after October 31, including the “Not-So-Scary” Halloween Concert and Pumpkin Chunkin’ events. Families are encouraged to take part in this lively array of experiences for a memorable Halloween season.
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Additional Resources
- Kid Friendly DC: Halloween Events 2025
- Hill Rag: Halloween Events on the Hill
- Northern Virginia Magazine: Best October Events
- Forbes: Dog Halloween Events in NYC
- Westchester Magazine: Halloween Events
- Wikipedia: Halloween
- Google Search: Halloween events in Washington DC
- Google Scholar: Halloween celebrations
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Halloween
- Google News: Halloween Washington DC events
Author: STAFF HERE WASHINGTON DC
WASHINGTON DC STAFF WRITER The WASHINGTON DC STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWashingtonDC.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Washington, DC, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and regional news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the National Cherry Blossom Festival, Kennedy Center Honors, and the Washington Auto Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Washington Board of Trade and Destination DC, plus leading businesses in government contracting and technology that power the local economy such as Lockheed Martin and Amazon. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into the dynamic landscape of the Washington metropolitan area.
