Top 10 Halloween Festivals and Events in the U.S
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Loading... - DENNIS JAMIESON
- 06 Nov 2024
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Halloween in the United States transcends traditional trick-or-treating and haunted houses, evolving into a vibrant celebration filled with festivals and events that capture the spirit of the spooky season. From parades to pumpkin displays, these festivities offer unique experiences for all ages. Here are the top 10 Halloween festivals in the U.S. that you won't want to miss.
1. Festival of the Dead – Salem, Massachusetts
Salem, known for its infamous witch trials, is a quintessential Halloween destination. The Festival of the Dead invites visitors to explore the mysteries of the afterlife, featuring psychic mediums and lively events like the Witches Ball, where attendees don their best costumes for a night of music and celebration.
2. Thriller Parade and Halloween Festival – Lexington, Kentucky
Every Halloween, downtown Lexington transforms into a scene reminiscent of "The Walking Dead." The Thriller Parade showcases hundreds of participants dressed as zombies, dancing and shuffling to Michael Jackson's iconic "Thriller," creating a lively and unforgettable atmosphere.
3. Spooktacular Hot Air Balloon Festival – Scottsdale, Arizona
The Spooktacular Hot Air Balloon Festival offers a unique Halloween experience with over 20 hot air balloons lighting up the night sky. These balloons serve as trick-or-treat stations, and families can enjoy rides while kids play in the free Kids Zone, complete with inflatable bounce houses and slides.
4. Sea Witch Festival – Rehoboth Beach, Delaware
The Sea Witch Festival features the impressive 20-foot face of Sally the Sea Witch, attracting around 180,000 costumed attendees. The festival includes fun activities like a broom-throwing contest and a dog costume parade, making it a delightful event for all ages.
5. Emma Crawford Coffin Races and Festival – Manitou Springs, Colorado
Inspired by the legend of Emma Crawford, this unique festival involves teams racing homemade coffins through the streets of Manitou Springs. While the event is entertaining, it also serves as a tribute to Emma's life, blending humor with local history.
6. The Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze – Croton-on-Hudson, New York
At Van Cortlandt Manor, visitors can marvel at approximately 7,000 hand-carved pumpkins displayed in a stunning setting. The Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze features a mesmerizing tunnel of jack-o-lanterns illuminated by blue lights, creating a magical autumn experience.
7. Night of 1,000 Jack-o'-Lanterns – Chicago, Illinois
The Chicago Botanic Garden hosts the Night of 1,000 Jack-o'-Lanterns, where guests can admire artistically carved pumpkins while enjoying seasonal treats. Attendees are encouraged to wear costumes for an even more enchanting Halloween experience.
8. Krewe of Boo – New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans celebrates Halloween with the lively Krewe of Boo parade, featuring giant paper mache creatures and candy giveaways. Participants can also join the New Orleans Zombie Run, where they dress as zombies and try to evade roller-skating "living dead" chasers.
9. The Village Halloween Parade – Manhattan, New York
The Village Halloween Parade is a must-see event in New York City, showcasing a mix of weird, scary, and whimsical elements. The parade features giant puppets, marching bands, and a plethora of creative costumes, making it a highlight of the Halloween season.
10. Terror on Tillson Street – Romeo, Michigan
For those who love extravagant Halloween decorations, Terror on Tillson Street is a spectacle not to be missed. This neighborhood transforms into a Halloween wonderland, attracting around 80,000 visitors each year to see elaborate displays, including a killer clown house and a spooky pirate ship.
These top 10 Halloween festivals and events across the U.S. offer a diverse range of experiences that celebrate the spooky season in style. Whether you're drawn to parades, pumpkin displays, or unique local traditions, there's something for everyone to enjoy this Halloween!
