Ultimate Guide to Halloween Events in Orlando 2024: From Family-Friendly Fun to Frightful Festivities

As a local realtor who loves everything about Orlando, I'm thrilled to share this ultimate guide to Halloween events in Orlando for 2024. From the family-friendly delights at Disney World to spine-chilling experiences at Universal, there's something for everyone to enjoy this Halloween season. Whether you’re a local looking for new adventures or a visitor planning your fall vacation, this guide will help you discover the best events and experiences to make your Halloween unforgettable. Top Theme Park Halloween Events in Orlando Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Disney World Disney World is renowned for its magical celebrations, and Halloween is no exception. Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is the perfect event for families and kids of all ages. Held on select nights through October 31, this event features trick-or-treating throughout the Magic Kingdom, the delightful "Mickey’s Boo-To-You Halloween Parade," and the spectacular "Disney’s Not-So-Spooky Spectacular" fireworks show.  Costume Tips: Disney encourages costumes, but remember to check the guidelines to ensure your outfit is allowed. For more details, visit [Disney World's official site] Universal Orlando's Halloween Horror Nights For those who crave a true fright, Universal Orlando's Halloween Horror Nights is an iconic event that cannot be missed. This year, from August 30 to November 3, you can brave 10 haunted houses, 5 scare zones, and live entertainment that promises to keep you on edge all night long.  Highlight: The haunted houses feature new themes each year, with 2024 showcasing experiences like "A Quiet Place," "Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire," and "Universal Monsters: Eternal Bloodlines." Insider Tip: "Tickets are sold separately from regular theme park admission, and they tend to sell out fast. Learn more and secure your tickets early [here]. SeaWorld’s Howl-O-Scream and Spooktacular SeaWorld offers two different Halloween experiences. "Howl-O-Scream" is perfect for thrill-seekers, with haunted houses, scare zones, and chilling shows held on select nights through November 2. Alternatively, "Spooktacular" is a daytime event that caters to families, featuring trick-or-treating, costumes, and character encounters. Good to Know: Howl-O-Scream is not included with regular admission, so be sure to buy tickets ahead of time [here](https://seaworld.com/orlando/events/howl-o-scream/). Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Howl-O-Scream Just a short drive from Orlando, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s Howl-O-Scream offers an intense Halloween experience. Celebrating its 25th anniversary, the event includes multiple haunted houses, scare zones, and themed shows.  Why Visit? Busch Gardens offers a mix of world-class roller coasters with terrifying Halloween fun. The event runs select nights through November 2, and a separate ticket is required. For more information, visit their [official page]. Unique Halloween Events and Experiences in Orlando A Petrified Forest (Altamonte Springs) A Petrified Forest provides an outdoor haunted trail experience like no other. With three unique scare trails and several special nights, including "Total Eclipse Nights," where you're given only a glow stick to light your way, this is an attraction for those who love nature and scares.  Special Events: They also host a "Kids Day" and an accessible night for guests with special needs. Learn more about their offerings and plan your visit [here]. Vampirates: The Haunting Search for Neptune’s Treasure For a unique twist on Halloween, join the crew of the Pirates Dinner Adventure for "Vampirates: The Haunting Search for Neptune’s Treasure." This dinner show combines aerial artistry, swordplay, and dynamic duels with a spooky pirate theme, making it perfect for families and adventure lovers alike. Pro Tip: Book your tickets in advance to ensure a spot, as this event is top-rated during the Halloween season. More details are available [here]. Nosferatu – Orlando’s Own Adult Vampire Experience If you're looking for something exclusive and strictly for adults, "Nosferatu" at the Renaissance Theatre Company offers an immersive vampire-themed experience. You’ll journey from room to room with unique scenarios playing out around you, creating a one-of-a-kind adventure. Event Details: Tickets start at $35, and this is strictly an 18+ event. Discover more about the show and buy your tickets [here](https://rentheatre.com/nosferatu). Family-Friendly Halloween Events in Orlando Boo at the Zoo (Brevard Zoo) Perfect for families with young children, "Boo at the Zoo" offers trick-or-treating, face painting, and Halloween-themed photos in a fun, safe environment. This event runs on select dates through October and is included with regular zoo admission. Insider Tip: Arrive early to avoid the crowds, and check out the event details [here]. Creatures of the Night (ZooTampa) ZooTampa’s "Creatures of the Night" is another family-friendly event featuring spooky characters and Halloween-themed experiences. This year’s theme, "Testudians," is all about aliens disguised as reptiles! Fun Fact: ZooTampa also features conservation-friendly candy and a variety of Halloween activities for kids. Get your tickets [here]. Gators, Ghosts, and Goblins (Gatorland) Known as the Alligator Capital of the World, Gatorland offers "Gators, Ghosts, and Goblins," a family-friendly Halloween event that includes interactive characters, themed areas, and educational fun for all ages. Event Perk: Regular park admission includes all Halloween activities. Find out more [here]. Conclusion Orlando transforms into a Halloween haven every fall, with events catering to all ages and interests. Whether you're looking for a scare, a family-friendly outing, or a unique date night, Orlando has it all. Start planning to make the most of the season and experience the best Halloween events the city offers! FAQ Section 1. What are the best family-friendly Halloween events in Orlando?   - Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, SeaWorld’s Spooktacular, and Boo at the Zoo are excellent choices for families. 2. Which Halloween events in Orlando require advanced tickets?   Most theme park events, such as Halloween Horror Nights and Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, require advanced tickets. Special experiences like "Nosferatu" also require pre-booking. 3. Are there any free Halloween events in Orlando?   - Community events like Avalon Park’s Spooktacular, Zombietoberfest, and movie screenings at Enzian Theater offer free admission. 4. What are the age recommendations for Halloween Horror Nights?   - Halloween Horror  Nights are recommended for ages 13 and up due to its intense scare factor. 5. Where can I find Halloween-themed cocktails in Orlando?   - Several local bars offer themed drinks, including JoJo's Pumpkin Patch, Propagate Social House, and the Beetlejuice Pub Crawl.  

MORE

Discover the Best Pumpkin Patches in Tampa Bay Fl

Must-Visit Pumpkin Patches around Tampa Bay Fl  Enjoying Fall in Tampa Bay As the weather starts to cool down, Tampa Bay residents can enjoy the fall season at local pumpkin patches and events. From hayrides to corn mazes, there are plenty of activities to get into the autumn spirit. Whether you're looking for the perfect pumpkin or just want to soak in the seasonal atmosphere, Tampa Bay has something for everyone. For a more low-key experience, consider visiting a pumpkin patch during the week, or if you're looking for a lively outing, head out on the weekends. With so many options for fall fun, Tampa Bay is the perfect place to embrace the changing seasons and create lasting memories with loved ones.   1. Hyde Park Village Pumpkin Patch First up, let's start with the Hyde Park Village Pumpkin Patch. This is a favorite among locals because it's right in the heart of Hyde Park Village. You can stroll around the shops, grab a cup of hot cider, and pick out the perfect pumpkin. The patch is open from October 7th to the 28th. If you want to avoid the crowds, visit Monday to Thursday from 3 pm to 6 pm, but if you're looking for a more lively experience, head over on a weekend from 10 am to 6 pm. 2. Fox Squirrel Corn Maze Next, we have the Fox Squirrel Corn Maze. This one is great for those who love a little adventure with their pumpkins. The Fox Squirrel Corn Maze is open from September 27th to October 26th, from 10 am to 5 pm. It’s located at 6151 Varn Rd and offers much more than just pumpkins. They have a giant corn maze, hayrides, and even a corn cannon. It’s perfect for kids and anyone who enjoys a bit of fall fun. 3. DK Farms Fall Festival Another must-visit is the DK Farms Fall Festival. This one has a great small-town feel and is packed with activities. From October 5th to the 27th, you can visit DK Farms every day from 10 am to 3 pm. They have pony rides, a petting zoo, and, of course, a beautiful pumpkin patch. You’ll find it at 1750 Lake Ave SE, and it's a great spot to spend a sunny fall afternoon. 4. Seminole Heights Great Pumpkin Patch Then there's the Seminole Heights Great Pumpkin Patch. Located at 6111 North Central Avenue, this patch is open from October 4th to the 30th. This is a great neighborhood patch where you can pick out a pumpkin, grab some fresh popcorn, and enjoy the crisp fall air. It's a more relaxed spot, perfect for a quick visit or an afternoon of browsing. 5. Pumpkin Patch at Armature Works Don't forget about the Pumpkin Patch at Armature Works. This patch is part of the larger Armature Works Fall Fest, which happens on the last two weekends of October at 1910 N Ola Avenue. This spot is fantastic because it combines the charm of a pumpkin patch with the bustling energy of the Armature Works area. There are food trucks, live music, and plenty of photo ops with giant pumpkins! Bonus: Bearss Groves And speaking of giant pumpkins, you have to check out Bearss Groves. Located at 14316 Lake Magdalene Blvd, Bearss Groves typically starts its pumpkin fun the first week of October. They bring in one of the largest pumpkins in America, weighing in at a whopping 1,500 pounds! It's a sight to see, and they also have a lovely selection of smaller pumpkins for decorating or carving. So there you have it, some of the best pumpkin patches to visit in Tampa Bay this fall! Whether you’re looking for a place to snap some photos, pick out the perfect pumpkin, or just enjoy the beautiful fall weather, Tampa Bay has you covered.    

MORE