Halloween is a big holiday for children as they pick out costumes and prepare for trick-or-treating. But, throughout October, families can participate in all sorts of events to make this fun holiday last longer than just a day. Here are eight family events to mark the season.
Punkin Chunkin
October 21 – Free Entry
Watch giant pumpkins get launched through the air on a real trebuchet at Heartwood Acres. Allegheny County Parks and SHARP Robotics put on the whole family event. There will be a medieval sword fight, face painting, balloon art, games, and crafts to carry on the excitement. Plus, come hungry: there will be an array of local food trucks.
Trunk-or-Treat Car Cruise
October 21 and 22 – Free Entry
Get a chance to collect candy well in advance of the 31st…from car cruisers. Kids can dress up in their costumes and explore decorated vehicles. There are plenty of opportunities to trunk-or-treat with two different events at South Park Pool Parking Lot and then at Heartwood Acres.
Owl-O-Ween
October 21 and 22 – Included with General Admission
If you’ve been wanting to visit the National Aviary, here is a chance to do it spookily. Kids are encouraged to wear their costumes and participate in the parade. Then, they’ll make an owl craft before trick-or-treating in the facility. The best part about this event is the chance for an owl meet-and-greet in the theater for no additional cost.
Zoo Boo
October 21, 22, 28, 29 – Included with General Admission
Trick-or-treat through the zoo and visit animals that will be enjoying their own Halloween treats. On top of the regular zoo activities this special Halloween event includes contests and fun for the family. There are crafts, a dance party, a costume contest, and a parade to end the day.
Sensory-Friendly Trick or Treat
October 27 – $16
Carnegie Museum of Natural History provides an opportunity for trick-or-treating and museum exploration all in sensory-friendly conditions. Guests can attend a seasonal story time or meet live animals with reduced audio and visual elements. This is an all-ages event, so it’s not just for children either.
Cereal Cinema: A Nightmare Before Christmas
October 28 – $16 per person
Watch a movie in the morning with an all-you-can-eat cereal bar provided by Row House Cinema. Get into the Halloween spirit right before the big day by joining Jack Skellington for his big takeover of Christmas while munching on Froot Loops.
Halloween: Candyland Adventure
October 28 – Free Entry
Join the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh in a family Halloween immersive event based on the Candyland board game. Enter a life-size board game with vibrantly decorated pathways. Many game stations throughout the board have chances to win prizes and sweets. It’s another chance to dress up in costume and get in the spirit.
Halloween Fun Cruise
October 28 – $32 for Adults, $20 for Children
Your family can explore all of Pittsburgh right from the Three Rivers for two hours. Board the Gateway Clipper for an afternoon of dancing, meeting characters, winning prizes, and trick-or-treating. A snack bar and additional activities will be available for an additional cost.
Story by Kylie Thomas
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