Halloween is coming up fast and that means candy and costumes galore. However, if you’re looking to celebrate with the family a bit differently, why not pack your bags and hit the road? In fact, there are plenty of family friendly events you can visit in New England to get into the Halloween spirit.
1. Connecticut
Located in East Hampton, Pumpkintown is a family friendly Halloween village that includes hayrides, a shop, and fun characters. It’s open everyday from 10am to 5pm until October 31st. Pricing varies during the week, weekends, and holidays, but a portion of the proceeds does go to the Sandy Peszynski Breast Cancer Foundation.
The Farmington Miniature Golf & Ice Cream Parlor is holding its annual Halloween golf event from October 19th to the 29th. Admission is only $10 dollars a person, and is open Thursdays from 4pm to 9pm, Fridays from 4pm to 9pm, Saturdays from 11am to 9pm, and Sundays from 11am to 8pm. Proceeds will benefit the Farmington Valley Visitor Association, and you can volunteer to be a costumed actor at this event!
2. Maine
Take a visit to Portland, ME and hop aboard the pumpkin train. This event is hosted by the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Co. & Museum and operates the train October 21st, 22nd, 28th, and 29th. Trains run on the hour from 10am to 3pm.
Additionally, all guests receive hot cider and cookies. Children can also roam the museum and decorate a free miniature pumpkin. The cost is $10 for adults, $9 for seniors, $6 for children, and kids 2 and under are free.
3. Massachusetts
Edaville Family Theme Park in Carver, MA is hosting a Not So Spooky Halloween. Families can come dressed in costume, trick or treat, and admission includes all attractions and rides in the park. This event runs every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday until October 29th and hours are 10AM to 8PM.
Take a trip to Salem, MA for a true Halloween experience! There’s a lot to do there this time of year, but why not take your family to a dinner theater? Meals are included in the ticket price, and this show is family friendly, so you won’t have to worry about the kids getting too spooked. The dinner encourages the audience to play along and use clues to figure about a suspect. Tickets are limited, so make sure you plan ahead.
4. New Hampshire
This is a free event that the people of Plainfield, NH partake in every October. You can drive around and see hundreds of clever characters made from pumpkins. Plus, while you’re in the area you can enjoy the local restaurants and shops.
DeMeritt Hill Farm in Lee, NH hosts a bunch of events this time of year. Their most famous event is the Haunted Overload, which runs through October day and night. Pricing is affordable and daytime haunts are more suitable for younger children.
This farm also offers storybook hayrides. Families can go on a scenic journey, listen to stories, and children receive free candy and a pumpkin after the ride.
5. Rhode Island
Hosted at Rhode Island’s famous Roger Williams Park Zoo, this event runs from October 5th until November 5th. Over 5,000 pumpkins are hand carved and illuminated on a walking trail, it’s a sight to see and prices vary. The trail opens after dusk. So, spend the day at the zoo and then check out the incredible trail of pumpkins at night.
6. Vermont
Located in Burlington, VT the Halloween Express Train runs the weekend before Halloween. Children and their families can enjoy family friendly parties, costumed characters, snacks, and stories. The train goes into Shelburne and back. The event runs from 8AM to 7PM on Saturday and Sunday.
The Halloween Monster Bash takes place in Newport, VT on October 28th from 12:30PM to 3PM. Events include a parade, costume contest, trick or treating, hayrides, a haunted house, and a carnival. Enjoy the day in Vermont with your family while checking out this community event.
So, before the month is over and the winter chills sink in, why not make a few trips around lovely New England in the spirit of Halloween? Don’t forget to check out the fall foliage while you’re at it! Are you and your family doing anything special this Halloween? We’d love to hear about it in the comments below.
