Halloween 2024 in Washington, D.C.

Halloween in Washington, DC, is eagerly anticipated by both children and adults alike, offering a diverse range of festive activities and events. From neighborhood gatherings to citywide celebrations, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Haunted houses, ghost tours through historic neighborhoods, and themed nights at local bars and clubs provide ample opportunities for diverse Halloween celebrations. Whether you're seeking family-friendly fun or adult-oriented thrills, Washington, DC, offers a rich tapestry of Halloween experiences to explore and enjoy.

Laurel's House of Horror (September-November, 2024, Select Dates)

Celebrate the chilling allure of Halloween at Laurel's House of Horror, opening its doors for the season on Friday the 13. Nestled within the historic "Old Movie Theater" at Laurel Centre Mall, this top-rated haunted attraction spans an impressive 28,000 square feet, making it the largest indoor haunt in the region. Originally abandoned and now infamous for its paranormal activity, the theater has drawn attention from groups like Chesapeake Ghost Hunters and Charm City Paranormal, documenting eerie encounters within its walls. Visitors can expect unforgettable experiences, from immersive haunted house attractions to horror-themed escape rooms, available year-round on select dates. For those daring enough, real paranormal investigations offer a chance to explore the haunted theater after hours.

17th Street High Heel Race (Tuesday, October 29, 2024)

One of the standout events is the DC High Heel Drag Queen Race. This annual tradition takes place in late October at 9 pm along 17th Street between R Street NW and P Street NW. According to the organizers, the race attracts a large crowd of spectators and features participants dressed in extravagant costumes racing down the street in high heels. The event lasts approximately 10 minutes and is geared towards an adult audience, making it a vibrant and entertaining spectacle.

Halloween at the Smithsonian's National Zoo (October 18–20 and 25, 2024)

The Smithsonian’s National Zoo offers a thrilling Halloween experience, perfect for both adults and families. This season, visitors can explore themed exhibitions featuring creepy creatures like spiders, bats, and snakes, alongside exciting events that bring Halloween to life in unique ways.

For families, the Boo at the Zoo event takes place on October 18, 19, and 20 from 6 pm to 8:30 pm. This family-friendly celebration features over 30 trick-or-treat stations, a dance party, and karaoke. Children can explore the Zoo’s animal exhibits, where creatures interact with Halloween-themed enrichment like jack-o’-lanterns. Visitors can also enjoy spooky displays along the Zoo’s main walkway. Tickets for Boo at the Zoo cost $25 for members and $35 for non-members, with early entry starting at 5 pm for members. Parking is $30 per vehicle.

For adults, the Night of the Living Zoo returns on Friday, October 25, offering a spine-chilling evening from 7 to 11 pm. Guests can enjoy an open cocktail bar, mesmerizing circus acts, ghoulish scenes along the Zoo’s main walkway, and live music from DJs. Additional entertainment includes palm readers, fire eaters, illusionists, and even flash tattoos (available for purchase). The Reptile Discovery Center will be open from 7 to 9 pm for after-hours animal viewing. Tickets, priced at $55 for members and $65 for non-members, provide access to the event, drinks, and food for purchase, with proceeds supporting the Zoo’s conservation efforts. Guests must be 21 or older to attend, and parking is $30 per vehicle.

Halloween Bar Crawl in Washington D.C. 2024

For those looking to experience the vibrant nightlife of Washington D.C. during Halloween, the Halloween Bar Crawl is a must-attend event. Scheduled for October 19, October 26, and October 31, 2024, the event features top-rated bars offering exclusive access, special drinks, and food deals. Tickets are available at $9.99 per person for groups of 4 or more under the Group Rate deal, or $13.99 for individual tickets. Check-in points, located at Hard Rock Cafe from 4pm to 8pm, provide participants with VIP wristbands for entry to multiple venues. As the organizers claim, the event is expected to draw thousands of attendees, all dressed in creative and spooky costumes, contributing to the Halloween spirit.

Fright Fest (Select Nights from September 7 to November 3)

Experience the ultimate Halloween thrills at Six Flags America's Fright Fest, located conveniently near Washington, DC in Maryland. After sunset, the park transforms into a realm of terror with haunted attractions, scare zones, and exhilarating rides in the dark. Dare to enter the Haunted Houses like CarnEvil, Nightmare at Crack Axle Canyon, Skull Manor, and Hell Block VI, where only the bravest survive encounters with escaped monsters and terrifying scenarios. Explore Scare Zones such as Dead in the West in Ghost Town and Dark Oaks Cemetery and don't miss Events & Shows like The Awakening and Fears Unleashed, where nightly horrors come to life, promising spine-chilling experiences for all who attend.