Halloween brings out the kid in all of us. There are so many fun family Halloween events in the Twin Cities that are coming up! Today, we’ll sum up the best events and activities in and around the Minneapolis/St. Paul area.
And if you’re looking for more family outing ideas, don’t forget to join Twin Cities Kids Club
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Halloween Events for the Whole Family in the Twin Cities
Sundays at the Landmark Center: Great Pumpkin Halloween Celebration
Where: The Landmark Center, 75 Fifth Street West, St. Paul, MN
When: October 24th, 1 PM – 3 PM
Admission: Free
The Landmark Center brings so much to the Twin Cities, including music, theater, and special events. Stop in on October 24th between 1:00 and 3:00 PM to enjoy the Great Pumpkin Halloween Celebration.
Enjoy crafts, treats, a costume parade, and even live entertainment. There will be something for everyone! And it’s free!
Tour the Scarecrows of Waconia
Where: all over the Twin Cities
When: October 14th to the 24th
Admission: Free
There will be over fifty scarecrows in Waconia this October. Follow the map to find them all. Then, use your ballot to vote for your favorite. Just drop it off at any of the participating businesses.
The Fall Festival at Wargo Nature Center
Where: Wargo Nature Center, 7701 Main St, Lino Lakes, MN
When: October 16th, 2 PM – 4 PM
Admission: Free
The Wargo Nature Center has something for everybody, from classes to equiPMent rentals to self-guided tours.
The Fall Festival will feature freshly pressed cider and pioneer games to get your kiddos’ imaginations moving. There will also be plenty of self-guided activities for you and your family to enjoy.
ArBOOretum
Where: The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum in Chaska, on the Dahlberg Terrace in front of the Oswald Visitor Center
When: October 31st, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Admission: Arboretum admission is free for members and children ages 15 and younger. The non-member fee is $15. The arboretum is included with regular admission.
Your kiddos will love showing off their Halloween costumes at the Ar-boo-retum! And don’t forget to bring your camera. There are so many opportunities for great shots. Can you picture your little pumpkins posing in the World of Pumpkins and Scarecrows?
You can even reserve a time slot online to maximize your Halloween fun schedule!
Here are some other events at this location:
- Scarecrows in the Garden happening from Sept. 18th – Oct. 31st, 2021.
- World of Pumpkins Display happening from October 5th -November 4th.
- You can visit the AppleHouse. Open daily from 10:00 AM -6:00 PM through Nov. 5th.
Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular at the Minnesota Zoo
Where: The Minnesota Zoo, 13000 Zoo Blvd, Apple Valley MN
When: October 1st – November 7th
Admission: Adults $24, Seniors and Children age 3 – 12 $20, Children ages 2 or under get in free.
2021 will be the third year the zoo has hosted this astounding display of pumpkin carving. There are literally thousands of carved and lit jack-o-lanterns displayed along the quarter-mile nature trail.
Plan to take about ten minutes to walk to the start of the trail after entering the zoo. Most visitors take about 45 minutes to walk the pumpkin-y path.
You will need to get tickets in advance for this event. Make your reservation here. Zoo members get $2 off general admission tickets.
The Great Pumpkin Fest
Where: Valleyfair
When: Every Weekend October 2nd -31st, 2021 Saturdays 2–6 PM Sundays 12–6 PM
Admission: $65 at the gate or $38 if you buy your tickets online
It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown! Valleyfair brings the classic Peanuts gang to life for your kiddos to enjoy. Your little ones will love the not-so-scary Halloween activities for kids at The Great Pumpkin Fest!
You’ll find carnival rides, live entertainment, and other activities at The Great Pumpkin Fest. Enjoy Trick or Treat Street, Peppermint Patty’s Corn Maze, Sally’s Craft Corner, the Great Pumpkin Parade, and more!
Halloween Haunt at ValleySCARE
Where: Valleyfair
When: October 2-30, 2021 Fridays & Saturdays Only from 7:00 PM – Midnight
Admission: $47 per person at the gate or $38 each when you purchase online
First things first: the Halloween Haunt is NOT FOR LITTLE KIDS. This event is rated PG-13, and really, it isn’t meant for kids under 13 years of age.
If you have older kids, they will be thrilled with all the scary Halloween fun at ValleySCARE.
There are dozens of rides, haunted mazes, scare zones, and monsters prowling the park. This event is not for the faint of heart!
Anoka; The Halloween Capital of the World
Where: Anoka, MN
When: October 1st, 2021 – October 31st, 2021
Admission: No charge to wander around, but there are fees for various activities.
Why is Anoka considered the Halloween Capital of the World™?
Anoka, Minnesota, claims to be the first city in the United States to put on a Halloween celebration for the local kids. The town children pulled a number of pranks, from turning out cows to roam on Main Street to tipping over outhouses.
The people decided the best way to rid themselves of the pranks was to provide a diversion for the kids. So, they organized a costume parade and a block party. The event has grown bigger and better ever since.
Anoka is a wonderful, family-friendly outing for Halloween fun. You’ll find lots of interesting shops, great food, and too many Halloween events to count!
Here’s a rundown of everything going on in the Halloween capital of the world:
- October 1st – October 23rd – Coloring Contest Free
- October 3rd Pumpkin Weigh-Off, Scarecrow Contest, Adult Pumpkin Carving Contest from 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- October 19th: Movie Night: Night at the Museum 2 from 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
George Green Park at DUSK. Items to bring; chair, blanket, snacks.
- October 23rd: Children’s Pumpkin Carving Contest from 1 PM – 2:30 PM
Children ages 3 to 12.
- October 23rd: Light Up the Night Parade from 7:00 PM-8:00 PM
This crowd favorite has a full line-up of colorfully lit parade floats. The parade starts at 7:00 PM at the corner of 1st Ave, and Main St. The spaces along Main St. can be reserved after 4:00 PM.
- October 29th: Preschool Costume Contest from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Everybody wins at this costume contest! There will be special treat bags for each participant.
All pre-kindergarten children are welcome at this event, plus one adult allowed per registration.
- October 29th, Big Parade of Little People from 1:15 PM – 2:30 PM
Enjoy as Anoka’s local school children march through the historic downtown area. Watch the marching bands and enjoy all the costumes!
- October 30th: Spooktacular Carnival 2021 at Anoka Middle School from 10 AM – 1:00 PM
The carnival is recommended for kids ages 3-12 and features games, prizes, face painting, crazy hair, a bouncy house, and more! Tickets are 25 cents each or 5 for $1.
You can also bring in a food donation for the local food shelf and receive a free ticket—limit 5 free tickets.
There will be various food options to choose from, including pizza, hot dogs, chips, and beverages.
After the carnival, go enjoy the parade, which passes by off of 5th Avenue.
- October 30, 1:00 PM-3:00 PM, Grande Day Parade
The parade starts at 1:00 PM at State Street and Main Street. The 1.5-mile route follows Main Street to 5th Avenue. It finishes at South Street/ Military Road.
Screamin’ Green Hauntoween
Where: Bloomington at Mall of America
When: September 25th through October 31st
Admission: $25.99 at the gate or $22.99 online
Find some spooky family fun at the Screamin’ Green Hauntoween! The mall that has everything will have an extra dose of Monster-ific fun this month. Come out and enjoy a themed scavenger hunt, character photo ops, and more, ALL included with admission. Your kids will get their Halloween-fill exploring 26 creative attractions at Crayola Experience Mall of America!
Oh, and take note: while they would love it if you dress up, no costume masks are allowed.
Fun Halloween Events by Region
If you want to keep your windshield time to a minimum, we’ve got you covered! Next, take a look at the family-friendly fall festivities in your corner of the Twin Cities.
Minneapolis/St. Paul
Farmer Ken & Jan’s Pumpkin Patch
Where: Como-Harriet Streetcar Line, Minneapolis
When: October 16th and 17th, 12:30–4 PM.
Admission: $3/ride pp, under 3 free, pumpkins $6/each.
Palace Halloween Party
Where: Palace Community Center,
When: October 22nd from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Admission: FREE
Enjoy a fun Halloween party with fun games and spooky crafts. Kids of all ages are welcome and this event is FREE to attend!
Transylvania Trolley
Where: Como-Harriet Streetcar Line, Minneapolis
When: October 23rd, 12:30 PM – 4:00 PM
This Halloween trolley ride is free of tricks. Wear your costume and get a treat! 12:30-4PM. $3/pp, under 3 are free.
Hazel Park Trunk or Treat Drive Thru
Where: Hazel Park Rec Center, St. Paul
When: October 26th, 2021, from 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Admission: FREE
The vehicle line for this event starts at Case Avenue. Families can drive up to each table in their vehicle to receive a festive treat bag and special surprises. No registration is required for this event.
North Commons Halloween Trick Or Treat
Where: North Commons Park, Minneapolis
When: October 28th, 2021, from 4:00 – 6:00 PM
Admission: FREE
Make the North Commons Trick or Treat event a stop on your trick or treat route! You can pick up some treats and take a sweet picture with your family at the fun and festive photo stop.
MJM Halloween Bash
Where: Merriam Park Recreation Center, St. Paul
When: October 28th, 2021, from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Admission: FREE
At the MJM Halloween Bash, there will be a petting zoo, jump castle, haunted house, food, and lots more! Don’t be scared, come party and wear your very best costume for the costume contest! No registration is required for this event.
Bike-O-Ween
Where: Lake Nokomis, Minneapolis
When: October 30th
Admission: $5 per person
Bring your bike, get a decorating kit and try out the Bike Skills Course.
Treats include donut holes, hot coffee, and juice boxes for all! Masks are encouraged. Please register for a specific time slot here. 9, 10, or 11 AM.
Family Funday: Animal Masquerade Party
Where: Kroening Interpretive Center – Minneapolis
When: October 31st, 1 PM – 3 PM
Admission: FREE
Are your little party animals ready for the animal costume party? Come dressed as your favorite animal!
Enjoy an afternoon of nature games and fun. Visit the petting zoo and explore outside! And if you’re seeking more thrills, try the adventure course!
Kids get to make a nature mask to create and bring home.
Please note, registration is REQUIRED. Pre-registration is encouraged, as there are a limited number of spots available. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
North Metro
Spooky Sanborn
Where: Sanborn Park, Robbinsdale
When: October 8th from 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Admission: Free
Bring the whole family and enjoy trunk-or-treat, spooky games, some not-so-scary stories, contests, treats, and tons more. At the end of the night, there will be a free showing of the film HOCUS POCUS! Bring lawn chairs or blankets to catch the movie! This is a free event, and costumes are welcome! No registration is required to attend.
Trick or Trot
Where: New Hope City Hall
When: October 9th from 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
Admission: $10 per person
Trick or Trot is for kids ages 3 – 12. Trick or treat along the lighted trail at Civic Center Park. Enjoy face painting, pumpkin decorating, a costume contest, DJ music, carnival games, a scavenger hunt, and hot beverages. They’ll be showing the movie “Hotel Transylvania” starting at 7 PM. Wear your Halloween costume and tennis shoes, Register by October 1st. For ages 3-12 years old.
Flashlight Storybook Trail – She Wanted to be Haunted
Where: Bassett Creek Park, Crystal
When: October 16th, 6 PM – 8 PM
Admission: FREE
Enjoy the self-guided flashlight reading! This delightful story has a lyrical twist on the question of how to be your very best self. FREE event!
Boo Bash
Where: Brookview Community Center in Golden Valley
When: October 20th from 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Admission: $20
Enjoy some messy Halloween fun with paint and clay as you make a black cat, ghost, or jack-o-lantern.
Children are invited to wear their costumes to class and must be accompanied by a caregiver. For ages 1.5-5 years old. $20.00
Halloween Hike at Quaking Bog
Where: Quaking Bog – Wirth Lake Beach, Golden Valley
When: October 22nd, 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM
Admission: $15 per person
Hike through Quaking Bog. Kids 7-12 will enjoy the spooky games, a scavenger hunt, and festive treats.
Osseo Lions Halloween Event
Where: Central Avenue, Osseo
When: October 23rd from 11:00 am – 12:00 PM
Admission: FREE
Trick or treat up and down Central Avenue in Osseo and end the adventure at Boerboom Park for more fun and games.
Pumpkin Night in the Park
Where: Springbrook Nature Center, Fridley
When: October 23rd, 5 PM – 9 PM
Admission: $10 each
Enchanted trails, costumed characters, kids dance, 1,000 glowing pumpkins, and food. There will be no ticket sales at the gate this year, so plan to buy your tickets in advance here.
Robbinsdale Give & Get Trick or Treat
Where: Businesses on West Broadway (There will be a Pumpkin Display in the window of businesses participating)
When: October 28th, 2021, from 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Admission: FREE
Kids up to age 12 can dress up and trick-or-treat at local businesses on Broadway with the donation of a non-perishable food item.
Halloween at the Lake
Where: Parkers Lake Playfield, Plymouth
When: October 29th, 2021, from 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Admission: FREE
Halloween at the Lake brings together the Plymouth Parks and Recreation, Police, and Fire departments. This event features first responder vehicles for children to view, as well as treats and tons family-friendly fun!
Little Goblins Costume Party
Where: Wargo Nature Center, Lino Lakes
When: October 29th, 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Admission: $10
Lots of fun for kids age 8 and less! There will be plenty of themed carnival games and crafts, refreshments, and a special photo backdrop for unforgettable pictures.
The Wargo Nature Center staff will be leading a flashlight hike to look at the stars!
Parents and guardians are encouraged to dress up too! Just keep it kid-friendly; no costumes with weapons. Important note: All children must be accompanied by an adult. **Pre-registration is required.
Not-So-Spooky Mystery: Who Is the Scariest Animal in the Woods?
Where: Eastman Nature Center, Maple Grove
When: October 30th
Admission: $8 for ages 2 and up
Enjoy a little theater! The animals can’t decide who is the “scariest” creature living in the woods. Engaging characters and puppets lead the audience along a trail to a surprising discovery.
Kids get “Not so spooky” treats when they reach the end of the learning trail. Check out the outdoor photo stations and experience the candy cannon! Costumes encouraged.
Reservations are required at least one week prior to the event.
Kids Halloween Party
Where: Pinehaven Farm, Wyoming
When: October 30th and 31st, 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Admission: $14 per person
There will be a scavenger hunt for children ages 3 to 12, where they will find treats and trinkets. Children under the age of 3 can join in if you buy a Trick or Treating bag for $3 at admissions. Wearing costumes is highly encouraged. 10 AM to 3 PM, Pre-purchased tickets required.
Tamarack Trick or Treat
Where: Tamarack Nature Center, White Bear Lake
When: October 3oth
Admission: $7.50 per child, $3.50 per adult.
This is a family-friendly, non-scary event for pre-k through elementary kids with a parent. Play in Discovery Hollow, participate in games and activities, see the animals, and get treats. Start times: 3:00, 3:30, 3:40, or 4:00 PM Activities take approximately 75 minutes to complete. Registration is required.
The South Metro
Pumpkins on the Plaza
Where: Nolan Mains in Edina
When: October 9th, 10 AM – 2 PM
Admission: Free!
Come enjoy pumpkin painting, make luminary lanterns, and hear stories, music, and more!
Make sure to stop at the story circle from 10–11 AM. The Edina and Southdale Libraries have picked some excellent stories to share! Free beverage samples will be available from Clean Juice. And check out the shops and restaurants in the 50th & France District!
Harvest to Halloween at the Barn
Where: Riley Lake Park, Eden Prairie
When: October 16th, 2021, from 4:00 – 8:00 PM
Admission: FREE
Decorate pumpkins, take horse-drawn wagon rides, dance at a glow-in-the-dark dance party in the barn, take a story stroll, participate in a scavenger hunt, and do other family activities. Some activities include art stations, a scavenger hunt, and a Trail of Treats.
Ghostly Gathering
Where: Veterans Memorial Community Center – Inver Grove Heights
When: October 22nd, 2021 6 PM – 8 PM
Admission: $8/child (Registration is required by Monday, October 18th.)
This is a Family-friendly, non-scary event for kids ages 2-12, with trick-or-treating, activities, photo booth, and a DJ. Make sure to register by Monday, October 18th, to get in on this Halloween fun.
Scary Skate
Where: Veterans Memorial Community Center (West Rink) – Inver Grove Heights
When: October 23rd from 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Admission: Free for VMCC Members, $4 Non-member, $2 skate rental
Skate the night away in your costume at this frightfully fun event!
Halloween Trail Walk
Where: Viking Lakes, 2685 Vikings Circle, Eagan
When: October 30th, 11 AM – 3 PM
Admission: $5 per child
Explore the “Legends Crossing” while you trick or treat around stations and play fun Halloween games. A local DJ will be playing music. $5/child; Adults free with food donation. Pre-registration required.
Severs Fall Festival
Where: 3121 150th Street West, Shakopee
When: September 10th – October 31st
Admission: $17 per person
Fall Festival and pumpkin patch. You’ll find the Midwest’s biggest corn maze here!
They also have a corn pit, an extreme corn pit, tire mountain, pig races, plus antique tractors and trucks! Plan on spending at least a few hours at this one. Reserve tickets online.
Scarecrows in the Garden
Where: Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, Chaska
When: September 18th – October 31st
Admission: $15 for ages 16 and up, and children 15 and younger get in free.
Open daily 9 AM-6 PM, Tour the scarecrows created by Bachman’s scarecrow experts. Take a selfie with your favorites! Reserve tickets online.
Westwood Annual Halloween Party
Where: Westwood Hills Nature Center, St Louis Park
When: October 22nd and 23rd, 6:30 – 9:30 PM
Admission: $9 – $12 per person
Come in costumes and enjoy carnival games, trick or treating, and a puppet show! Friday or Saturday. Pre-registration required.
Half-Haunted Halloween
Where: Wood Lake Nature Center, Richfield
When: October 23rd, 2 PM – 6 PM
Admission: $5 per person
Stations include the trick or treat trail, games, a musician, and even a barn dance! Cookies and cocoa are included, too. Purchase tickets for a specific entry time, starting at 2 PM.
Burwell House Spooktacular Festival
Where: Burwell House, Minnetonka
When: October 29th, 2021 from 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Admission: FREE
Be sure to wear your best costume and have a spooky good time going on a festive scavenger hunt, craft activities, fire department inflatable slide, Burwell House Tours, and much more!
Halloween in Excelsior
Where: Downtown Excelsior
When: October 30th from 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Have some fun trick o’ treating, pumpkin decorating, participating in costume contests, and dancing the night away!
Halloween Party
Where: Chanhassen Recreation Center
When: October 30th, 1 PM – 3 PM
Admission: $6 per child
Go on a hayride, enjoy live music, and get your face painted. You’ll find trick or treating, socially distant activities, and refreshments. Pre-register for this event.
Enchanted Forest Halloween
Where: Lowry Nature Center – Victoria
When: October 30th, 3 PM – 8 PM
Admission: $6 per person
Kids (and maybe the grown-ups, too) will love dressing up and trick or treating on the enchanted trail. You’ve probably given your animal friends treats before, but have you ever gotten treats from the animals?
Costumed animals (okay, maybe they’re people in animal costumes) will have lots of treats for trick or treaters. You’ll enjoy carnival games, music from the Roe Family Singers, and the hilarious Mad Scientist. Snack concessions are available for purchase.
Reservations are required by four days prior.
Old-Fashioned Halloween Party
Where: Wood Lake Nature Center, Richfield
When: October 31st from 1 PM – 3 PM
Admission: $5 per person
Part of the Sunday Specials program.
Enjoy old-fashioned games. Hunt (with your eyes only!) for owls, bats, and spiders on a scavenger hunt. And try their old-fashioned refreshments! Costumes encouraged. Limited spaces; pre-registration encouraged.
Up North
Boo at the Zoo
Where: Hemker Park & Zoo in Freeport, MN
When: October 9th, 10 AM – 6 PM
Admission: Arrive in your best Halloween costume. Your admission will be discounted at the door. Discounted admission is $13.00 per person age 2 and up. Children younger than 2 get in free.
Go trick or treating around the zoo! Make sure to wear your Halloween costume. You’ll get to watch the animals get their favorite Halloween treats, too!
14th AnnualGreat Pumpkin Festival
Where: Gregory Park, Brainerd
When: October 16th, 2021 from 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM.
Enjoy hands-on “messy” & experiential learning with pumpkins, pumpkin education, and composting with worms. Paint pumpkin rocks, bounce in a bouncy house and play traditional games like 3-legged race, wheelbarrow race, pumpkin roll, and sack races.
Boo at the Zoo
Where: Lake Superior Zoo, Duluth
When: October 16, 23, & 30, 2021 from 10:00 am – 4:00 PM
Admission: Members/$10, Non-member/ $12 in advance or $14 at the door, kids 2 & under/FREE
Bring the whole family and explore the zoo for the holiday! Enjoy endless trick-or-treating stations, festive Halloween-themed animal treats, food trucks, games & activities, and so much more!
There Is So Much To Do in the Twin Cities!
That is one long list! We hope you will find lots of fun and entertainment for your whole family this Halloween season.
When you’re ready for more ideas, make sure to sign up for Twin Cities Kids Club. We love bringing you the latest news and deals on family fun in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area. Join the Club today!