The BEST Halloween Events for Kids in Tampa Bay + MORE Fun!

The BEST Halloween Events for Kids in Tampa Bay + MORE Fun!

Spooky SZN is here which means it’s time for us to share our annual list of our favorite Halloween events for kids in Tampa Bay!! Get ready to round up your little ghouls and goblins for a spooktacular day or night out in Tampa Bay at one of these awesome Halloween events. And, don’t forget — we’ve curated a list of awesome pumpkin patches in Tampa Bay including fall festivals.

*We’ll continue to update this post as events are announced.

Featured Halloween Events:

 

HALLOWEEN WALK the LIGHTS at SunKissed Acres, Dover

  • Dates: Thursday, October 5 – Sunday, October 29, 6:30pm – 9:30pm
  • Cost: $8 in advance, $9 at the door; Kids 2 and under, FREE
The BEST Halloween Events for Kids in Tampa Bay + MORE Fun!
The 1/3-mile walking trail features hundreds of themed lighted displays!

A Shimmering Lights Fall Festival for the whole family! Happening Thursday-Sunday nights in October, come walk the 1/3-mile walking trail featuring hundreds of themed lighted displays! Plus, outdoor movies, a light maze, scavenger hunt, games, face painting and FOAM play nights. They won’t make you landlubbers scrub the deck, but you may have to walk the plank!

 

Spooktacular at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay 

  • Dates: Saturdays and Sundays September 9 – October 29, and October 30 – 31, from 12pm – 4 pm.
  • Cost: Included with theme park admission
  • Includes trick-or-treating.
best Halloween events for kids in Tampa bay Kandy the Witch at Busch Gardens Spooktacular
There are several trick-or-treat stations at Spooktacular at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, including photo opportunities with Kandy the Witch!

Spooktacular returns this year after it debuted at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay last year. Kids can meet Kandy, the witch-in-training who is still learning her magic, and even go trick-or-treating. Be sure to snap some cute pictures at the photo ops and with Kandy and her friends. Kids can also snuggle up on the bench for a “Room on the Broom” storytime, and kiddos 13 and younger can even take part in the Spooktacular Costume Parade—this is an adorable opportunity to let your child shine and show off their costumes.  We’ve got even MORE details about Spookacular at Busch Gardens here.

 

Brick or Treat Monster Party at LEGOLAND Florida

  • Dates: Weekends September 16-October 29, 2023 (September – Saturdays only)
  • Cost: Included with daily admission
  • Includes trick-or-treating
Brick-or-Treat presents Monster Party
The spooky characters you’ll encounter at Brick-or-Treat at LEGOLAND Florida!

Don’t miss this Halloween party built just for kids at LEGOLAND Florida Resort in Winter Haven. Kids can enjoy spooky LEGO building activities (they might even learn some cool LEGO building tricks from the pros!), trick-or-treating in the new candy zones, new event-exclusive character meet-and-greets, along with the V.I.M. (Very Important Monster) Dance Party, new fireworks, and more! You can even climb aboard The Disco Dragon coaster for a groovy Halloween monster jam. We’re dishing on all the details here: Brick or Treat at LEGOLAND Florida: Here’s what to expect in 2023  

 

Creatures of the Night at ZooTampa at Lowry Park

  • Dates: Select Nights from September 29-October 29, 2023
  • Cost: $5 reservation fee for Zoo Members and “Pay for a Day” ticket holders which you’ll get back as a voucher and it’s $35.95-$45.95 for general admission tickets

Tampa Bay’s number-one family Halloween event returns this October! Creatures of the Night at ZooTampa is full of eerie family fun for everyone! Ghouls and goblins of all ages can enjoy howling outdoor experiences, mischievous characters, creepy culinary treats, and much more! NEW this year: The Vampire Ball with hosts Count Chirop and Countess Tera. There will also be a new Vikings Victory Party, Troll Cave, Howliday House Light Show, and Spider Queen Dining Hall Oasis. Head on over here to see what it was like at ZooTampa’s Creatures of the Night in 2023.

 

Halloween Spooktacular at Clearwater Marine Aquarium

  • October 27-31, 2023, from 3 pm-7 pm 
  • Location: 249 Windward Passage, Clearwater
  • Cost: Included with daily admission

Dive into a family-friendly Halloween Spooktacular at Clearwater Marine Aquarium with spooky decorations and activities for all ages October 27 through October 31. Guests can enjoy underwater pumpkin carving, a trail of creepy creatures, mazes and more. Visit CMA on Oct. 31 from 3pm-7pm for an evening of eerie excitement, featuring a live DJ, costume contest and trick-or-treat candy stations for kids! This is a great alternative to Halloween night trick-or-treating in a neighborhood.

 

Worth the Drive: Cowboy Adventure Park at Westgate River Ranch

  • Dates: Now open on select dates
  • Cost: Tickets start at $15 

Calling all families and adventure enthusiasts! Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey at the Cowboy Adventure Park, where fun knows no bounds.

With over 15 exciting activities designed especially for kids, this family-friendly fair promises an action-packed day filled with laughter and thrills. Kids can test their cowboy skills on the mechanical bull, conquer new heights on the rock climbing wall, and bounce to their heart’s content on gigantic bounce pads.

The excitement doesn’t stop there; let your little ones channel their inner racecar driver on the tractor racetrack and explore the twists and turns of the pumpkin maze.  Learn more about the Westgate River Ranch Cowboy Adventure Park here for upcoming dates and times.


MORE of the BEST Halloween Events for Kids in Tampa Bay

*Listed in order of launch date. 

 

 

Halloween Spooktacular at Dinosaur World

  • Dates: September 23-October 31, daily
  • Cost: park admission

Dinosaur World is getting into the Halloween spirit by decorating the park for the season! No extra ticket is required–just come and enjoy the decor and, of course, the dinosaurs!

 

Spooky Train Rides and Scary Trail at the Concourse in Shady Hills

A haunted pirate shipwreck is heading to Sparkman Wharf with an evening of plenty of photos, live music, silly spooks for the kids, festive food and drinks, and MORE! This is a free community event. Some of the cool photo opportunities include a pirate jail, a siren’s sea swing, and the TAMPA sign will be decked out for the holidays too! 

 

Spooky Season Theme Day at Great Explorations Children’s Museum

  • Friday, October 27, 2023, from 10:30 am-4:00 pm
  • Location: 1925 4th Street North, St. Petersburg
  • Cost: Museum admission, $12 for adults and $15 for kids ages 1-17

Great Explorations Children’s Museum in St. Pete is hosting a day filled with Halloween-themed activities for kids including games, arts, and crafts. Costumes are encouraged, but make sure kids can see out of face masks so they can enjoy all the fun!

 

Trick-or-Treat Trail at Largo Central Park

  • Date: October 27, 2023, 5:30 pm 
  • Location: 201 Highland Ave, Largo, FL
  • Cost: Free

Bring your kiddos dressed in their Halloween costumes for a night of trick-or-treating around Largo City Hall. Bags and candy will be provided. This is an outdoor event. Adults can also take home a Trick-or-Tree at the end of the event to plant at home. Learn more at playlargo.com.

 

Owl-O-Ween at McGough Nature Park 

  • October 27, 2023, from 5:30 pm-9 pm
  • Location: 11901 146th St., Largo, FL 33774
  • Cost: $5 for ages 4 and up. Kids 3 and younger are free.

For a spooky good time, bring the family out to McGough Nature Park for a night to explore a spooky nature trail, candy scavenger hunt, animal shows, and more! Tickets are $5 per person. You can learn more and book your tickets by visiting playlargo.com.

 

MOSI’s Spooktacular Science: A Halloween Extravaganza! 

  • October 27 from 6 pm-8 pm
  • Location: 4801 E. Fowler Ave. Tampa
  • Cost: FREE

Gather your costumes and head to MOSI for this members-only eerie event! MOSI will be transformed into a haunted wonderland where science meets the supernatural. There will be interactive experiments, spooky exhibits, and trick-or-treat adventures.  

 

Fright Nights at Folly Farm in Safety Harbor

  • October 27 & 28, 2023 from 6 pm-10 pm 
  • 1538 Dr. MLK North, Safety Harbor
  • Cost: $7 for haunted trail

The city of Safety Harbor has scheduled two nights of frightful fun at Folly Farm Nature Preserve. There will be a haunted trail you can explore, fall-themed activities, a campfire, children’s activities, and more!

 

Guppyween at the Florida Aquarium

  • October 28 and 29, 2023 during Aquarium hours
  • Sensory-Friendly Guppyween: October 28 from 8 am-9:30 am
  • Cost: Museum admission

Guppyween returns to the Florida Aquarium for a weekend filled with Halloween-themed activities, trick-or-treating, animal encounters, costumed divers, and even underwater pumpkin carving!

 

7th Annual Trick or Treat on the Riverwalk in Tampa and Lighted Boat Parade

  • October 28, 2023, from 4 pm-7 pm
  • Downtown Tampa Riverwalk
  • Cost: FREE

Trick or treating on the Riverwalk is back where kids and their families can visit more than 50 different treat stations while enjoying other fun activities including the annual Halloween Lighted Boat Parade which starts at 6:30pm, benefiting the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation.

 

Zephyrhills Halloween Howl

  • Date: October 28, 2023 from 5 pm-9 pm
  • Location: Zephyr Park: 38116 5th Ave. in Zephyrhills
  • Cost: Free to attend

Head to Zephry Park for an evening of spooktacular activities and treats, a haunted house and haunted forest, games, live entertainment, and more. You can start the celebration early over at Wizard Fest in Downtown Zephyrhills at the Clock Plaza from 11 am -3 pm on the same day for vendors, scavenger hunt, raffles, and more.

 

4th Annual Spooky Stroll with TRIBE Seminole Heights

  • October 28, 2023, from 6 pm-9 pm
  • Seminole Heights Garden Center, Tampa
  • Cost: $1 per person 

This beloved annual event will sell out fast, so be sure to purchase your tickets in advance to secure your spot. TRIBE Seminole Heights’ Spooky Stroll features tons of family-friendly fun including costumed characters, trick-or-treat stations, a pumpkin patch, a creepy house tour, fun games, and MORE! In the past, it has taken about 60-90 minutes to complete the stroll.

 

Boo Brunch on Yacht Starship in Tampa

  • October 29, 2023, from 12 pm-2:30 pm
  • 603 Channelside Drive, Tampa
  • Cost: Tickets start at $34.95 for kids and $54.95 for adults

This Halloween-themed Boo Brunch cruise is a family-friendly adventure with fun costume contests, tricks and treats, a brunch buffet, and more. Each child will receive a complimentary pumpkin at the end of the cruise along with a cute photo opportunity before boarding.

 

Halloween on Central in St Pete 2023

  • October 29, 2023 from noon-5:00 pm
  • Central Ave in St. Pete between MLK and 31st St S
  • Cost: Free

22 blocks are closed to cars and motor vehicles from noon-5 pm for this this family event will be filled with a parade of costumes, street performers, entertainment, and tons of Halloween fun! 

 

For even MORE Halloween Fun, check out our Ultimate Guide to Fall Events in Tampa Bay here.


The BEST Halloween Events for Teens 

Best haunted house in Tampa Bay Howl-O-Scream Busch Gardens Tampa Bay 2021
Image Credit: Howl O Scream, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Howl-O-Scream at Busch Gardens 

  • Dates: Select Nights September 8-October 31, select nights
  • Location: Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
  • Cost: Tickets start at $44.99

Scream and Shout. Let it all out! Experience thrills around every corner at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. Meet up with hundreds of roaming creatures, terrifying outdoor scare zones, and returning favorite haunted houses including the “Witch of the Woods” The Forgotten!  There will also be live, interactive entertainment and Tickets are a must to secure your spot! 

 

Scream-A-Geddon in Dade City

  • Dates: Select nights September 24-November 4, 2023, Select Nights
  • Location: 27839 St. Joe Rd., Dade City, FL 33525
  • Cost: Tickets start at $29.95

It’s officially that time of year! Scream-A-Geddon is returning to Dade City to terrify guests once again with haunted house attractions and creepy crawlies wandering the grounds to give you your first frights of the season. There are a total of SIX attractions to terrify you including NEW ones. *Please don’t bring little kiddos to this—it’s quite intense and there’s no pumpkin patch here.

 

Sir Henry’s Haunted Trail in Plant City

  • Dates: September 29-November 4, 2023 on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights
  • Location: 2837 S Frontage Rd in Plant City
  • Cost: Tickets start at $27

For an extra spooky night filled with terrifying thrills, head to Sir Henry’s Haunted Trail in Plant City! There are three haunted trails, laser tag, and even an escape room. The haunted trails are not appropriate for kids under age 12, so leave the little ones at home.

 

Tampa Theatre Ghosts of Tampa Tour

  • Dates: October 13-31, 2023, various times
  • Cost: See website for details

Tampa’s most historic (and haunted!) movie palace is offering 90-minute tours where you’ll learn the haunting tales of the spirits that are said to still roam the historic theater.  For more information, prices, and times, visit tampatheatre.org.

 

UNDead in the Water- American Victory Ship in Tampa

  • Dates: September 22-October 28, 2023 on  select nights
  • 615 Channelside Drive, Tampa, FL
  • Cost: $22-$24 (plus tax) general admission, military discounts available

UNDead in the Water is back at Sparkman Wharf! Traverse multiple decks of this historic WWII cargo ship armed only with nerves of steel and a will to survive.  Avoid being eaten by the infected zombie stowaways while the Ripper Squad Decontamination Crew fights for humanity’s very survival! Alas, no pumpkin patch here.  This is best for kids older than 11 years old due to the fright factor.

Check out even MORE Scary Halloween Events and Haunted Houses in Tampa Bay and Beyond here!


Halloween Costume Ideas

Our team is sharing some of our favorite DIY Halloween costume ideas. 


Halloween Treats and Spooky Snack Ideas

Halloween snack ideas
Two ingredient Halloween donuts by Jenny P of @lunchboxmafia.

Need some spooky inspiration for your child’s lunch box? Jenny P of @lunchboxmafia is dishing some ghoulishly good Halloween party snacks that also double as fun lunchbox additions! For a healthy twist, check out Ginain Grayes of @cookprayslay’s Healthy Halloween Snack Ideas


Halloween Science Experiments

ghost eggs science experiment
Ghost eggs science experiment.

Glazer Children’s Museum shared some really cool spooky science experiments you can do at home for extra thrills including how to make ghost eggs!


Tell a Halloween Joke!

Funny Halloween Jokes for Kids
Images courtesy of iStock by Getty Images.

Q: Who won the skeleton beauty contest? A: No body!

We’ve got even more ghoulishly good Halloween jokes for kids to keep your kiddos laughing all day long!

 

 

 

  • Dates: October 6-29, 2023, select days between 6:15 pm9:45 pm
  • Location: Convention Center/ Marriott Water Street (Stop 7 location)
  • Cost: $35 for adults, $20 for children ages 2-12 (includes all-day hop on/hop off)

Join Pirate Water Taxi’s crew for an entertaining evening with tales of ghosts along the Hillsborough River. Each tour will be led by two dead-lightful docents who will tell eerie stories of Tampa’s past. Haunted River Tours are family-friendly, and all ages are welcome! Tours last 45-50 minutes.  Kids can even pick up a pumpkin at the floating pumpkin patch during the cruise!

 

Haunted Woods at Hillsborough River State Park

  • Dates: October 20-21, 2023 from 6 pm-10 pm
  • Location: Hillsborough River State Park
  • Cost: $10 for ages 13 and older

The Hillsborough River State Park Preservation Society is hosting a haunted trail at the park along with a costume contest, live music, and treats as an alternative to trick-or-treating! Learn more about the Haunted Woods at Hillsborough River State Park here.

 

Haunted Hikes at Boyd Hill Nature Preserve

  • Date: October 20, 2023 from 7:20 pm-9:30 pm (Family-friendly hike)
  • Location: Boyd Hill Nature Preserve, 1101 Country Club Way S, St. Petersburg
  • Cost: $10 for adults, $5 for kids

Boyd Hill Nature Preserves is hosting a spooky evening with Haunted Hikes with a family-friendly night on October 20. You and the kids will be guided on a hike filled with eerie stories and thrills. On October 21, they’ll host a hike for those 18 years old and older called Terror in the Woods that will turn up the spook factor!

 

Stranger Springs at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park

  • October 20, 21, 28 & 28, 2023 from 7 pm-11 pm
  • Location: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, 6131 Commercial Way, Spring Hill
  • Cost: Tickets are $10, kids 5 and younger are free

Weeki Wachee Springs will transform with Stranger Things-inspired twist featuring the ‘Stranger Springs’ underwater show, The Weeki Lab escape room, Shadow Monster Maze, Stranger Lights, and more!

 

Tampa Bay History Center’s A Night at the Museum

  • Sunday, October 22, 2023, from 4 pm-7 pm
  • Location: 801 Water Street, Tampa
  • Cost: Ticket prices: $16.95 for adults; $14.95 for college students; $14.95 for seniors (60+); $12.95 for children and youth (4-17); free for children ages 0-3. History Center members receive a 15% discount.  
  • *Includes trick-or-treating

Trick-or-treat your way through the Tampa Bay History Center galleries in search of sweet rewards on Sunday, Oct. 22. Plan for an evening of games, crafts, costume characters, and more! Timed tickets are available now and children age 3 and younger are free.

 

Haunted Tales of Tampa Bay Cruise with Tampa Bay Watch

  • October 22, 28, and 29, 2023 from 6 pm-7 pm
  • Cost: Tickets start at $16 for children 13 and under, $24 for adults, children 3 and younger are free

Tampa Bay Watch is hosting Haunted Tales of Tampa Bay cruises that will tell you all about the creepy animals that call the bay home and even some ghostly tales of the city. Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center is hosting even more spooky Halloween-themed activities for kids throughout the month. You can learn more here.

 

Pied Piper’s 2nd Annual Haunted Carnival at Armature Works in Tampa

  • October 26-29, 2023 at various times 1910 N Ola Avenue, Tampa 
  • Cost: 


The Haunted Carnival will host a costume contest, where the winner will be awarded $10,000 in cash and prizes. Participants can enter to win on Friday and Saturday from 4-10 p.m. or Sunday from 4-8 p.m. And a dog costume contest on Thursday at 4 p.m.

 

Haunted Wharf at Sparkman Wharf in Tampa

  • Dates: October 27 and 28, 2023 from 5:30 pm-10 pm
  • 615 Channelside Drive, Tampa
  • Cost: FREE

A haunted pirate shipwreck is heading to Sparkman Wharf with an evening of plenty of photos, live music, silly spooks for the kids, festive food and drinks, and MORE! This is a free community event. Some of the cool photo opportunities include a pirate jail, a siren’s sea swing, and the TAMPA sign will be decked out for the holidays too! 

 

Spooky Season Theme Day at Great Explorations Children’s Museum

  • Friday, October 27, 2023, from 10:30 am-4:00 pm
  • Location: 1925 4th Street North, St. Petersburg
  • Cost: Museum admission, $12 for adults and $15 for kids ages 1-17

Great Explorations Children’s Museum in St. Pete is hosting a day filled with Halloween-themed activities for kids including games, arts, and crafts. Costumes are encouraged, but make sure kids can see out of face masks so they can enjoy all the fun!

 

Trick-or-Treat Trail at Largo Central Park

  • Date: October 27, 2023, 5:30 pm 
  • Location: 201 Highland Ave, Largo, FL
  • Cost: Free

Bring your kiddos dressed in their Halloween costumes for a night of trick-or-treating around Largo City Hall. Bags and candy will be provided. This is an outdoor event. Adults can also take home a Trick-or-Tree at the end of the event to plant at home. Learn more at playlargo.com.

 

Owl-O-Ween at McGough Nature Park 

  • October 27, 2023, from 5:30 pm-9 pm
  • Location: 11901 146th St., Largo, FL 33774
  • Cost: $5 for ages 4 and up. Kids 3 and younger are free.

For a spooky good time, bring the family out to McGough Nature Park for a night to explore a spooky nature trail, candy scavenger hunt, animal shows, and more! Tickets are $5 per person. You can learn more and book your tickets by visiting playlargo.com.

 

MOSI’s Spooktacular Science: A Halloween Extravaganza! 

  • October 27 from 6 pm-8 pm
  • Location: 4801 E. Fowler Ave. Tampa
  • Cost: FREE

Gather your costumes and head to MOSI for this members-only eerie event! MOSI will be transformed into a haunted wonderland where science meets the supernatural. There will be interactive experiments, spooky exhibits, and trick-or-treat adventures.  

 

Fright Nights at Folly Farm in Safety Harbor

  • October 27 & 28, 2023 from 6 pm-10 pm 
  • 1538 Dr. MLK North, Safety Harbor
  • Cost: $7 for haunted trail

The city of Safety Harbor has scheduled two nights of frightful fun at Folly Farm Nature Preserve. There will be a haunted trail you can explore, fall-themed activities, a campfire, children’s activities, and more!

 

Guppyween at the Florida Aquarium

  • October 28 and 29, 2023 during Aquarium hours
  • Sensory-Friendly Guppyween: October 28 from 8 am-9:30 am
  • Cost: Museum admission

Guppyween returns to the Florida Aquarium for a weekend filled with Halloween-themed activities, trick-or-treating, animal encounters, costumed divers, and even underwater pumpkin carving!

 

7th Annual Trick or Treat on the Riverwalk in Tampa and Lighted Boat Parade

  • October 28, 2023, from 4 pm-7 pm
  • Downtown Tampa Riverwalk
  • Cost: FREE

Trick or treating on the Riverwalk is back where kids and their families can visit more than 50 different treat stations while enjoying other fun activities including the annual Halloween Lighted Boat Parade which starts at 6:30pm, benefiting the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation.

 

Zephyrhills Halloween Howl

  • Date: October 28, 2023 from 5 pm-9 pm
  • Location: Zephyr Park: 38116 5th Ave. in Zephyrhills
  • Cost: Free to attend

Head to Zephry Park for an evening of spooktacular activities and treats, a haunted house and haunted forest, games, live entertainment, and more. You can start the celebration early over at Wizard Fest in Downtown Zephyrhills at the Clock Plaza from 11 am -3 pm on the same day for vendors, scavenger hunt, raffles, and more.

 

4th Annual Spooky Stroll with TRIBE Seminole Heights

  • October 28, 2023, from 6 pm-9 pm
  • Seminole Heights Garden Center, Tampa
  • Cost: $1 per person 

This beloved annual event will sell out fast, so be sure to purchase your tickets in advance to secure your spot. TRIBE Seminole Heights’ Spooky Stroll features tons of family-friendly fun including costumed characters, trick-or-treat stations, a pumpkin patch, a creepy house tour, fun games, and MORE! In the past, it has taken about 60-90 minutes to complete the stroll.

 

Boo Brunch on Yacht Starship in Tampa

  • October 29, 2023, from 12 pm-2:30 pm
  • 603 Channelside Drive, Tampa
  • Cost: Tickets start at $34.95 for kids and $54.95 for adults

This Halloween-themed Boo Brunch cruise is a family-friendly adventure with fun costume contests, tricks and treats, a brunch buffet, and more. Each child will receive a complimentary pumpkin at the end of the cruise along with a cute photo opportunity before boarding.

 

Halloween on Central in St Pete 2023

  • October 29, 2023 from noon-5:00 pm
  • Central Ave in St. Pete between MLK and 31st St S
  • Cost: Free

22 blocks are closed to cars and motor vehicles from noon-5 pm for this this family event will be filled with a parade of costumes, street performers, entertainment, and tons of Halloween fun! 

 

For even MORE Halloween Fun, check out our Ultimate Guide to Fall Events in Tampa Bay here.


The BEST Halloween Events for Teens 

Best haunted house in Tampa Bay Howl-O-Scream Busch Gardens Tampa Bay 2021
Image Credit: Howl O Scream, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Howl-O-Scream at Busch Gardens 

  • Dates: Select Nights September 8-October 31, select nights
  • Location: Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
  • Cost: Tickets start at $44.99

Scream and Shout. Let it all out! Experience thrills around every corner at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. Meet up with hundreds of roaming creatures, terrifying outdoor scare zones, and returning favorite haunted houses including the “Witch of the Woods” The Forgotten!  There will also be live, interactive entertainment and Tickets are a must to secure your spot! 

 

Scream-A-Geddon in Dade City

  • Dates: Select nights September 24-November 4, 2023, Select Nights
  • Location: 27839 St. Joe Rd., Dade City, FL 33525
  • Cost: Tickets start at $29.95

It’s officially that time of year! Scream-A-Geddon is returning to Dade City to terrify guests once again with haunted house attractions and creepy crawlies wandering the grounds to give you your first frights of the season. There are a total of SIX attractions to terrify you including NEW ones. *Please don’t bring little kiddos to this—it’s quite intense and there’s no pumpkin patch here.

 

Sir Henry’s Haunted Trail in Plant City

  • Dates: September 29-November 4, 2023 on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights
  • Location: 2837 S Frontage Rd in Plant City
  • Cost: Tickets start at $27

For an extra spooky night filled with terrifying thrills, head to Sir Henry’s Haunted Trail in Plant City! There are three haunted trails, laser tag, and even an escape room. The haunted trails are not appropriate for kids under age 12, so leave the little ones at home.

 

Tampa Theatre Ghosts of Tampa Tour

  • Dates: October 13-31, 2023, various times
  • Cost: See website for details

Tampa’s most historic (and haunted!) movie palace is offering 90-minute tours where you’ll learn the haunting tales of the spirits that are said to still roam the historic theater.  For more information, prices, and times, visit tampatheatre.org.

 

UNDead in the Water- American Victory Ship in Tampa

  • Dates: September 22-October 28, 2023 on  select nights
  • 615 Channelside Drive, Tampa, FL
  • Cost: $22-$24 (plus tax) general admission, military discounts available

UNDead in the Water is back at Sparkman Wharf! Traverse multiple decks of this historic WWII cargo ship armed only with nerves of steel and a will to survive.  Avoid being eaten by the infected zombie stowaways while the Ripper Squad Decontamination Crew fights for humanity’s very survival! Alas, no pumpkin patch here.  This is best for kids older than 11 years old due to the fright factor.

Check out even MORE Scary Halloween Events and Haunted Houses in Tampa Bay and Beyond here!


Halloween Costume Ideas

Our team is sharing some of our favorite DIY Halloween costume ideas. 


Halloween Treats and Spooky Snack Ideas

Halloween snack ideas
Two ingredient Halloween donuts by Jenny P of @lunchboxmafia.

Need some spooky inspiration for your child’s lunch box? Jenny P of @lunchboxmafia is dishing some ghoulishly good Halloween party snacks that also double as fun lunchbox additions! For a healthy twist, check out Ginain Grayes of @cookprayslay’s Healthy Halloween Snack Ideas


Halloween Science Experiments

ghost eggs science experiment
Ghost eggs science experiment.

Glazer Children’s Museum shared some really cool spooky science experiments you can do at home for extra thrills including how to make ghost eggs!


Tell a Halloween Joke!

Funny Halloween Jokes for Kids
Images courtesy of iStock by Getty Images.

Q: Who won the skeleton beauty contest? A: No body!

We’ve got even more ghoulishly good Halloween jokes for kids to keep your kiddos laughing all day long!

 

 

 

  • Dates: Select nights September 29-October 28, 2023, from 7 pm-10 pm
  • Location: 11919 Alric Pottberg Rd, Shady Hills
  • Cost: $8 each or $15 for both

Come out to the Concourse forger Spooky Train Rides and Scary Trail! The train is now DOUBLE the length of years past! There will be many activities for the kids so come out and have a spooky time!  

 

Sesame Street Safari of Fun Kids Weekends Halloween Celebration at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

  • Dates: Weekends September 30 through October 29 and then Monday, October 30, and Tuesday, October 31, 2023
  • Cost: Included with theme park admission.

Once kids have experienced Spooktacular, they can head on over to Sesame Street Safari of Fun for a Halloween-themed adventure featuring a sing-along show, Count von Count’s Not-too-Spooky Howl-O-Ween Radio Show, a Dance Party with their favorite characters, and more!

 

Hocus Focus at Fairgrounds St. Pete 

  • Dates: October 5- November 6, 2023, regular business hours
  • Location: 2606 Fairfield Ave S, St. Pete
  • Cost: $35 for Florida residents, $32 for kids ages 4-12

Fairgrounds St. Pete is launching an all-new Halloween event, ‘Hocos Focus’, a limited-time activation that includes an eyeball-themed scavenger hunt, Halloween activations in every exhibit, wearable glowing goodies, games, and more! You can take advantage of $3 off ticket prices during the Hocus Focus Early Bird sale through September 30.

 

Haunted River Tours with Pirate Water Taxi

  • Dates: October 6-29, 2023, select days between 6:15 pm9:45 pm
  • Location: Convention Center/ Marriott Water Street (Stop 7 location)
  • Cost: $35 for adults, $20 for children ages 2-12 (includes all-day hop on/hop off)

Join Pirate Water Taxi’s crew for an entertaining evening with tales of ghosts along the Hillsborough River. Each tour will be led by two dead-lightful docents who will tell eerie stories of Tampa’s past. Haunted River Tours are family-friendly, and all ages are welcome! Tours last 45-50 minutes.  Kids can even pick up a pumpkin at the floating pumpkin patch during the cruise!

 

Haunted Woods at Hillsborough River State Park

  • Dates: October 20-21, 2023 from 6 pm-10 pm
  • Location: Hillsborough River State Park
  • Cost: $10 for ages 13 and older

The Hillsborough River State Park Preservation Society is hosting a haunted trail at the park along with a costume contest, live music, and treats as an alternative to trick-or-treating! Learn more about the Haunted Woods at Hillsborough River State Park here.

 

Haunted Hikes at Boyd Hill Nature Preserve

  • Date: October 20, 2023 from 7:20 pm-9:30 pm (Family-friendly hike)
  • Location: Boyd Hill Nature Preserve, 1101 Country Club Way S, St. Petersburg
  • Cost: $10 for adults, $5 for kids

Boyd Hill Nature Preserves is hosting a spooky evening with Haunted Hikes with a family-friendly night on October 20. You and the kids will be guided on a hike filled with eerie stories and thrills. On October 21, they’ll host a hike for those 18 years old and older called Terror in the Woods that will turn up the spook factor!

 

Stranger Springs at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park

  • October 20, 21, 28 & 28, 2023 from 7 pm-11 pm
  • Location: Weeki Wachee Springs State Park, 6131 Commercial Way, Spring Hill
  • Cost: Tickets are $10, kids 5 and younger are free

Weeki Wachee Springs will transform with Stranger Things-inspired twist featuring the ‘Stranger Springs’ underwater show, The Weeki Lab escape room, Shadow Monster Maze, Stranger Lights, and more!

 

Tampa Bay History Center’s A Night at the Museum

  • Sunday, October 22, 2023, from 4 pm-7 pm
  • Location: 801 Water Street, Tampa
  • Cost: Ticket prices: $16.95 for adults; $14.95 for college students; $14.95 for seniors (60+); $12.95 for children and youth (4-17); free for children ages 0-3. History Center members receive a 15% discount.  
  • *Includes trick-or-treating

Trick-or-treat your way through the Tampa Bay History Center galleries in search of sweet rewards on Sunday, Oct. 22. Plan for an evening of games, crafts, costume characters, and more! Timed tickets are available now and children age 3 and younger are free.

 

Haunted Tales of Tampa Bay Cruise with Tampa Bay Watch

  • October 22, 28, and 29, 2023 from 6 pm-7 pm
  • Cost: Tickets start at $16 for children 13 and under, $24 for adults, children 3 and younger are free

Tampa Bay Watch is hosting Haunted Tales of Tampa Bay cruises that will tell you all about the creepy animals that call the bay home and even some ghostly tales of the city. Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center is hosting even more spooky Halloween-themed activities for kids throughout the month. You can learn more here.

 

Pied Piper’s 2nd Annual Haunted Carnival at Armature Works in Tampa

  • October 26-29, 2023 at various times 1910 N Ola Avenue, Tampa 
  • Cost: 


The Haunted Carnival will host a costume contest, where the winner will be awarded $10,000 in cash and prizes. Participants can enter to win on Friday and Saturday from 4-10 p.m. or Sunday from 4-8 p.m. And a dog costume contest on Thursday at 4 p.m.

 

Haunted Wharf at Sparkman Wharf in Tampa

  • Dates: October 27 and 28, 2023 from 5:30 pm-10 pm
  • 615 Channelside Drive, Tampa
  • Cost: FREE

A haunted pirate shipwreck is heading to Sparkman Wharf with an evening of plenty of photos, live music, silly spooks for the kids, festive food and drinks, and MORE! This is a free community event. Some of the cool photo opportunities include a pirate jail, a siren’s sea swing, and the TAMPA sign will be decked out for the holidays too! 

 

Spooky Season Theme Day at Great Explorations Children’s Museum

  • Friday, October 27, 2023, from 10:30 am-4:00 pm
  • Location: 1925 4th Street North, St. Petersburg
  • Cost: Museum admission, $12 for adults and $15 for kids ages 1-17

Great Explorations Children’s Museum in St. Pete is hosting a day filled with Halloween-themed activities for kids including games, arts, and crafts. Costumes are encouraged, but make sure kids can see out of face masks so they can enjoy all the fun!

 

Trick-or-Treat Trail at Largo Central Park

  • Date: October 27, 2023, 5:30 pm 
  • Location: 201 Highland Ave, Largo, FL
  • Cost: Free

Bring your kiddos dressed in their Halloween costumes for a night of trick-or-treating around Largo City Hall. Bags and candy will be provided. This is an outdoor event. Adults can also take home a Trick-or-Tree at the end of the event to plant at home. Learn more at playlargo.com.

 

Owl-O-Ween at McGough Nature Park 

  • October 27, 2023, from 5:30 pm-9 pm
  • Location: 11901 146th St., Largo, FL 33774
  • Cost: $5 for ages 4 and up. Kids 3 and younger are free.

For a spooky good time, bring the family out to McGough Nature Park for a night to explore a spooky nature trail, candy scavenger hunt, animal shows, and more! Tickets are $5 per person. You can learn more and book your tickets by visiting playlargo.com.

 

MOSI’s Spooktacular Science: A Halloween Extravaganza! 

  • October 27 from 6 pm-8 pm
  • Location: 4801 E. Fowler Ave. Tampa
  • Cost: FREE

Gather your costumes and head to MOSI for this members-only eerie event! MOSI will be transformed into a haunted wonderland where science meets the supernatural. There will be interactive experiments, spooky exhibits, and trick-or-treat adventures.  

 

Fright Nights at Folly Farm in Safety Harbor

  • October 27 & 28, 2023 from 6 pm-10 pm 
  • 1538 Dr. MLK North, Safety Harbor
  • Cost: $7 for haunted trail

The city of Safety Harbor has scheduled two nights of frightful fun at Folly Farm Nature Preserve. There will be a haunted trail you can explore, fall-themed activities, a campfire, children’s activities, and more!

 

Guppyween at the Florida Aquarium

  • October 28 and 29, 2023 during Aquarium hours
  • Sensory-Friendly Guppyween: October 28 from 8 am-9:30 am
  • Cost: Museum admission

Guppyween returns to the Florida Aquarium for a weekend filled with Halloween-themed activities, trick-or-treating, animal encounters, costumed divers, and even underwater pumpkin carving!

 

7th Annual Trick or Treat on the Riverwalk in Tampa and Lighted Boat Parade

  • October 28, 2023, from 4 pm-7 pm
  • Downtown Tampa Riverwalk
  • Cost: FREE

Trick or treating on the Riverwalk is back where kids and their families can visit more than 50 different treat stations while enjoying other fun activities including the annual Halloween Lighted Boat Parade which starts at 6:30pm, benefiting the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation.

 

Zephyrhills Halloween Howl

  • Date: October 28, 2023 from 5 pm-9 pm
  • Location: Zephyr Park: 38116 5th Ave. in Zephyrhills
  • Cost: Free to attend

Head to Zephry Park for an evening of spooktacular activities and treats, a haunted house and haunted forest, games, live entertainment, and more. You can start the celebration early over at Wizard Fest in Downtown Zephyrhills at the Clock Plaza from 11 am -3 pm on the same day for vendors, scavenger hunt, raffles, and more.

 

4th Annual Spooky Stroll with TRIBE Seminole Heights

  • October 28, 2023, from 6 pm-9 pm
  • Seminole Heights Garden Center, Tampa
  • Cost: $1 per person 

This beloved annual event will sell out fast, so be sure to purchase your tickets in advance to secure your spot. TRIBE Seminole Heights’ Spooky Stroll features tons of family-friendly fun including costumed characters, trick-or-treat stations, a pumpkin patch, a creepy house tour, fun games, and MORE! In the past, it has taken about 60-90 minutes to complete the stroll.

 

Boo Brunch on Yacht Starship in Tampa

  • October 29, 2023, from 12 pm-2:30 pm
  • 603 Channelside Drive, Tampa
  • Cost: Tickets start at $34.95 for kids and $54.95 for adults

This Halloween-themed Boo Brunch cruise is a family-friendly adventure with fun costume contests, tricks and treats, a brunch buffet, and more. Each child will receive a complimentary pumpkin at the end of the cruise along with a cute photo opportunity before boarding.

 

Halloween on Central in St Pete 2023

  • October 29, 2023 from noon-5:00 pm
  • Central Ave in St. Pete between MLK and 31st St S
  • Cost: Free

22 blocks are closed to cars and motor vehicles from noon-5 pm for this this family event will be filled with a parade of costumes, street performers, entertainment, and tons of Halloween fun! 

 

For even MORE Halloween Fun, check out our Ultimate Guide to Fall Events in Tampa Bay here.


The BEST Halloween Events for Teens 

Best haunted house in Tampa Bay Howl-O-Scream Busch Gardens Tampa Bay 2021
Image Credit: Howl O Scream, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

Howl-O-Scream at Busch Gardens 

  • Dates: Select Nights September 8-October 31, select nights
  • Location: Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
  • Cost: Tickets start at $44.99

Scream and Shout. Let it all out! Experience thrills around every corner at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. Meet up with hundreds of roaming creatures, terrifying outdoor scare zones, and returning favorite haunted houses including the “Witch of the Woods” The Forgotten!  There will also be live, interactive entertainment and Tickets are a must to secure your spot! 

 

Scream-A-Geddon in Dade City

  • Dates: Select nights September 24-November 4, 2023, Select Nights
  • Location: 27839 St. Joe Rd., Dade City, FL 33525
  • Cost: Tickets start at $29.95

It’s officially that time of year! Scream-A-Geddon is returning to Dade City to terrify guests once again with haunted house attractions and creepy crawlies wandering the grounds to give you your first frights of the season. There are a total of SIX attractions to terrify you including NEW ones. *Please don’t bring little kiddos to this—it’s quite intense and there’s no pumpkin patch here.

 

Sir Henry’s Haunted Trail in Plant City

  • Dates: September 29-November 4, 2023 on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights
  • Location: 2837 S Frontage Rd in Plant City
  • Cost: Tickets start at $27

For an extra spooky night filled with terrifying thrills, head to Sir Henry’s Haunted Trail in Plant City! There are three haunted trails, laser tag, and even an escape room. The haunted trails are not appropriate for kids under age 12, so leave the little ones at home.

 

Tampa Theatre Ghosts of Tampa Tour

  • Dates: October 13-31, 2023, various times
  • Cost: See website for details

Tampa’s most historic (and haunted!) movie palace is offering 90-minute tours where you’ll learn the haunting tales of the spirits that are said to still roam the historic theater.  For more information, prices, and times, visit tampatheatre.org.

 

UNDead in the Water- American Victory Ship in Tampa

  • Dates: September 22-October 28, 2023 on  select nights
  • 615 Channelside Drive, Tampa, FL
  • Cost: $22-$24 (plus tax) general admission, military discounts available

UNDead in the Water is back at Sparkman Wharf! Traverse multiple decks of this historic WWII cargo ship armed only with nerves of steel and a will to survive.  Avoid being eaten by the infected zombie stowaways while the Ripper Squad Decontamination Crew fights for humanity’s very survival! Alas, no pumpkin patch here.  This is best for kids older than 11 years old due to the fright factor.

Check out even MORE Scary Halloween Events and Haunted Houses in Tampa Bay and Beyond here!


Halloween Costume Ideas

Our team is sharing some of our favorite DIY Halloween costume ideas. 


Halloween Treats and Spooky Snack Ideas

Halloween snack ideas
Two ingredient Halloween donuts by Jenny P of @lunchboxmafia.

Need some spooky inspiration for your child’s lunch box? Jenny P of @lunchboxmafia is dishing some ghoulishly good Halloween party snacks that also double as fun lunchbox additions! For a healthy twist, check out Ginain Grayes of @cookprayslay’s Healthy Halloween Snack Ideas


Halloween Science Experiments

ghost eggs science experiment
Ghost eggs science experiment.

Glazer Children’s Museum shared some really cool spooky science experiments you can do at home for extra thrills including how to make ghost eggs!


Tell a Halloween Joke!

Funny Halloween Jokes for Kids
Images courtesy of iStock by Getty Images.

Q: Who won the skeleton beauty contest? A: No body!

We’ve got even more ghoulishly good Halloween jokes for kids to keep your kiddos laughing all day long!