Atlanta is a great place to visit for Halloween, as there are tons of festivals and activities: from scary shows and haunted houses to kids parades and fright fests at amusement parks. Halloween season also offers excellent food, nature, and perfect weather for discovering Atlanta.
Little 5 Points Halloween Festival & Parade (October 19–20, 2024)
The Little 5 Points Halloween Festival and Parade stands as Atlanta's premier Halloween extravaganza. Running from noon to 6 pm along Moreland and Euclid Avenues, this free, family-friendly affair boasts a plethora of live entertainment, an art market, delectable food trucks, and a lively beer garden. The highlight of the day is undoubtedly the Halloween costume parade, which kicks off at 4 pm and marches along Euclid Avenue. Witness the streets come alive with hundreds of zombies, ghouls, and fairies, accompanied by vibrant marching bands and live music. Drawing a crowd of about 35,000 attendees annually, the Little 5 Points Halloween Festival & Parade reigns as the biggest—and spookiest—Halloween celebration in the Southeast. With its origins tracing back to parades in the 70s and music-based events in the 90s, this signature event has been a beloved tradition since 2001.
Pumpkin Festival at Stone Mountain Park (September 14–November 3, 2024)
The annual Pumpkin Festival at Stone Mountain Park is a beloved event among kids and parents in Atlanta, running from Friday to Sunday, 2 pm to 9 pm. During the day, enjoy a host of park attractions, exciting games, entertaining shows, and a thrilling carnival at the expo, complete with fantastic prizes. Kids can delight in Story Time with tales from Mother Goose and join Spookley the Square Pumpkin for a lively Dance-A-Long Party Parade. As night falls, don't miss the Glow-a-Long Party Parade, featuring the World's Largest Pumpkin Drone & Light Show and a family-friendly nighttime entertainment event boasting thousands of carved jack-o-lanterns. Admission tickets range from $34.99 for children to $39.99 for adults, promising a day filled with Halloween fun for the whole family!
Boo at the Zoo (October 19, 20, 26 and 27, 2024)
Boo at the Zoo is Zoo Atlanta's beloved seasonal festival, held every October. This fun-filled family Halloween event, set in Zoo Boo Town, promises an array of kid-friendly activities. Children can unleash their creativity with pumpkin carvings, enjoy delightful train rides, meet beloved storybook characters, and navigate through an inflatable corn maze. Witness the excitement as animals receive their special Halloween treats, and don't forget to dress up in your finest costumes! Don't miss the chance to greet the Komodo dragon, Gila monster, and hooded vultures. Boo at the Zoo is free for Zoo Atlanta Members and children under 3; it's also included with general admission. Join the festivities from 9 am to 3 pm and create unforgettable Halloween memories with your family!
Netherworld Haunted House (September–November 2024, on selected days)
Netherworld stands as one of the United States' most esteemed haunted houses, earning its reputation as a must-visit attraction during the Halloween season in Atlanta. Located in Stone Mountain, this renowned haunt offers an array of thrilling experiences. Dive into the heart-pounding adventure of "Escape the Netherworld," a series of exhilarating and challenging games crafted by the masterminds behind the world-famous Netherworld Haunted House. Explore the Monster Museum, featuring rare movie props, captivating monster displays, enjoyable photo opportunities, and a collection of Netherworld memorabilia. Open nightly during haunt operation; you can delve into this unique exhibit for just $5. General Admission Timed Entry Tickets are available, priced from $25 to $40, ensuring an unforgettable and spine-tingling experience for all who dare to enter.
13 Stories Haunted House (August 31–September 13, 2024
Prepare for spine-chilling thrills at 13 Stories Haunted House, hailed as one of the Top 10 Scariest Haunted Houses by USA Today. Situated in Newman, just 40 miles from Atlanta, this haunting destination boasts FOUR full haunted attractions under one roof. Experience the terror of 13 Stories Haunted House, brave the dizzying heights of Vertigo, confront your fears in Clown Haus Returns, and explore the chilling depths of The Ruins. Open from 7 pm to 10 pm, admission is priced at $20.00, promising an unforgettable night of fear and excitement for all who dare to enter.
Other Tours and Events
Lawrenceville Ghost and Haunted Cemetery Tours run throughout October in Lawrenceville. Tours depart and end at Aurora Theatre. Experience a nighttime walk and a chilling story about the paranormal. Atlanta Horror Film Festival is another must-see event that runs from October 4-6 at Synchronicity in Atlanta, where you can see dozens of independent films celebrating the horror genre. Atlanta Horror Film Festival is held during the Atlanta Film Series, a showcase of independent films designed to spotlight every genre of cinema imaginable.
Food Events
Finally, there are plenty of Halloween-themed food events and parties. During the day, visit Sunday Supper South at Ponce City Market to sample award-winning Southern cuisine masterpieces. At night, stop by the Day of the Dead Halloween Party held at the Roof at Ponce City Market. Or wash down all your fears at Boos and Brews, the annual costumed Halloween beer festival.
