Halloween in Boston: Parties, Attractions & Tours 2024
The historical city comes alive with old legends and dark stories
Dates: late September–late October
Boston's Halloween celebrations span the entire month of October, offering a wealth of spooky and entertaining activities. As one of the oldest cities in the U.S., Boston provides unique experiences such as trick-or-treating in Beacon Hill, ghost hunting in Ship Harbor, and chilling encounters at Barrett's Haunted Mansion. Visitors can also explore some of the country's oldest graveyards, perfect for a shiver-inducing experience, and find excellent spots for Halloween costume shopping. Whether seeking thrills or historical intrigue, Boston promises a memorable Halloween experience for all.
Halloween Zoo Howl in Franklin Park Zoo (October 26-27, 2024)
Franklin Park Zoo transforms into a Halloween haven during the Halloween Zoo Howl, making it a popular destination for families in New England. The event features costumed characters, a trick-or-treat trail with tasty treats, arts and crafts stations, and a kids' costume contest. Attendees can enjoy music from a live DJ, explore educational stations promoting eco-friendly practices, and see how the animals join in on the Halloween fun. Admission prices are Adult $19, Senior $23.35, Child $15, with children under 2 enjoying free entry.
Barrett's Haunted Mansion (September 21–November 2, 2024, on selected days)
Barrett's Haunted Mansion in Abington, a renowned haunt in New England, offers two terrifying attractions: The Haunted Mansion and The Sanctuary, designed to intensify your fears. Dare to enter the dark corridors where creatures lurk and a single light source guides your way? This spine-chilling experience is strictly for visitors 16 and older; parental permission is required for those under 18. Additional attractions include Condemned, Bite and Fright, Lights on Tour Behind the Screams, Darkness Unleashed, and Devil's Night. General admission is $40 per person, promising a night of unforgettable frights and thrills.
Official Halloween Bar Crawl (October 19, 25, 26, & 31, 2024)
Get ready for the ultimate Halloween experience in Boston with the official Halloween Pub Crawl! As one of North America's top bar scenes, Boston transforms into a vibrant hub where partygoers in scary, sexy, and wild costumes hop from bar to bar, enjoying drinks and creating unforgettable memories. The event spans over 4+ venues with free entry, including a thrilling after-party. Tickets are $11.99 and include a pub crawl wristband, a custom digital map, and access to generously low drink specials and holiday-themed drinks. Food specials, live music, DJs, and a photographer/videographer ensure every moment of this festive night is captured in style.
Beacon Hill with a BOO! (October 27–November 2, 2024)
Join Boston By Foot for a Halloween tradition unlike any other! Explore Beacon Hill, the perfect place to embrace the darker side of All Hallow's Eve. On this tour, uncover chilling stories that reveal a new perspective on this serene residential neighborhood, where tales of murder and mayhem lurk beneath the surface—Experience Beacon Hill's transformation with elaborate Halloween decorations and crowds of costumed trick-or-treaters. Tickets are $20, offering a spine-tingling journey through Boston's haunted history.