Houston offers a variety of Halloween activities for all ages. Explore downtown around Old Market Square or visit the Kemah Boardwalk, where weekends in October are filled with Halloween-themed events, including live music and trick-or-treating at Boardwalk stores. The Houston Arboretum & Nature Center also provides a great setting for fall festivities with its family-friendly Halloween Trail.
Haunted Houses
Haunted houses and scares are a Halloween staple, and Houston delivers with thrilling options. The Terror Dome is renowned as one of the scariest haunted houses in the city, featuring pyrotechnics, special effects, and actors designed to heighten your fear. At Houston Scream Fest, you can engage in paintball battles with zombies, explore a mysterious castle, and navigate a chilling asylum, all complemented by terrifying live entertainment. Additionally, Phobia Haunted Houses offers a spine-tingling experience across its 30-acre park, including eight distinct haunts such as Simon Fowler Woods, Mind Control, ClaustroPhobia, Darke Institute, and Dawn of the Machine.
Zoo Boo (September–October 2024, TBA)
Every October Houston Zoo hosts family-friendly costumed event for ghouls of all ages. Kids can see a Giant Pumpkin, ride a Spooky Train, walk through the Lantern Tunnel as well as the Wildlife Carousel, which transforms into a spooktacular Scary-Go-Round. Photo options, Harvest Barn, and a short story from the Friendly Dragon are also part of the experience.
Día de Los Muertos (November 2, 2024)
Multinational Houston always hosts a large celebration during Día de Los Muertos. It includes the evening parade through Downtown as well as a vibrant festival at Sam Houston Park. The parade features dozens of floats and groups in traditional costumes. The celebration, which honors the loved ones who have passed away, is free for the public. Take advantage of multiple arts and traditions exhibits, delicious holiday foods, and cultural performances.
BIZZARRO Houston Halloween Fest (October 31-November 3, 2024)
This fall, BIZZARRO! Halloween Fest Houston promises a thrilling experience over three nights with a lineup full of international flair and Houston's award-winning party atmosphere. Hosted at some of the city's most popular venues—including Bauhaus, NOTO, Richs, and Play (formerly Kiki)—the festival will feature an exciting mix of international debuts and returning favorites. For those looking to immerse themselves fully in the festivities, a VIP Weekend Pass is available for $49, while single-day passes can be purchased for $15. Get ready for a weekend of unforgettable beats and vibrant performances at BIZZARRO! Halloween Fest Houston.
