The autumn season is upon us and with that comes Halloween time. One thing is certain, there is no shortage of Halloween activities in Central Florida. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor, we’ve compiled some of the best events to celebrate this time of year. Regardless if you’re looking for family-friendly entertainment or more intense scares, the Orlando area has something for everyone.
Disney After Hours Boo Bash
For those who are like me and aren’t big fans of scary things, Disney has the season covered. Disney’s After Hours Boo Bash is a family-friendly limited ticket event taking place on select nights now through October 31. Boo Bash includes Halloween-themed character cavalcades, special performances, low wait times for rides, trick-or-treating, and complimentary snacks. For detailed information, check out The DIS article on the event here. This event is separate from regular park admission.
Universal Halloween Horror Nights
If you’re looking for more of a scare, you can check out Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights. Starting September 2 and running select nights through October 31, this event is sure to terrify you. The experience is complete with Haunted houses, scare zones, roaming hordes, live shows, special foods and merchandise. Horror Nights is more geared towards adults and those who can handle real scares (not myself). If you can handle it, head over to uofan.com for the latest details. This event is separate from regular park admission.
Howl-O-Scream Busch Gardens, Tampa
Another adult-oriented theme park event is Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream. Similar to at Universal, you’ll find haunted houses and roaming hordes plus roller coasters in the dark. Howl-O-Scream is happening on select nights September 9-October 31st. This event is separate from regular park admission. Visit the Howl-O-Scream page for more details.
Sesame Street Halloween Kids’ Weekends
If you were hoping for something for your children at Busch Gardens, they are also offering Sesame Street Halloween Kids’ Weekends. Taking place Saturdays and Sundays during the day October 24-30, this event is included in park admission. Activities include trick-or-treating, a special show, character appearances, and more. For more information, check out Busch Garden’s website.
Howl-O-Scream, Sea World
For the first time, Howl-O-Scream is also coming to Sea World. Since Busch Gardens and Sea World are both own by Sea World Parks and Entertainment, I imagine Howl-O-Scream is a similar event just in a different location. Sea World’s version will also take place September 9- October 31 on select nights. You can learn more by visiting Sea World’s event page.
Sea World Spooktacular
Just like Busch Gardens, Sea World also has a more family-oriented seasonal offering. Spooktacular takes place on weekends September 17-October 31. Here, you’ll find similar events to those offered at Busch Gardens: trick-or-treating, Sesame Street character experiences, and more. This event is also included with park admission. You can head over to Sea World’s website for more information.
Brick or Treat, Legoland
Another event included with regular park admission is Legoland’s Brick or Treat. This kid-friendly experience is available weekends September 24- October 30. Like similar events, it features trick-or-treating, characters, and other surprises. Legoland’s website has all the details.
Screamin’ Green Hauntoween, Crayola Experience
This offering put on by the Crayola Experience in Orlando is available September 24- October 31. During Hauntoween, you’ll enjoy themed crafts, trick-or-treat (on weekends), over 28 hands-on attractions, and more. This is definitely an event for the whole family. You can check back on the Crayola Experience site for more details as they become available.
Boo on Broadway, Kissimmee
Boo on Broadway is a single-day free family event located at Kissimmee Main Street. Taking place October 28 from 6pm-9pm, you’ll find trick-or-treating, be able to visit Adventures in Booville, and see a variety of entertainment. More information will be provided on the Kissimmee Main Street event page.
The Haunted Road, Orlando
The Haunted Road is a contactless alternative to the traditional haunted house. This drive-through experience can be found select nights September 21- November 6. There is also an add-on experience called The Barnyard which includes a haunted house, live entertainment, market place, and dining. Visit The Haunted Road Website for tickets and more information.
A Petrified Forest, Altamonte Springs
A Petrified Forest features outdoor Scare Trails. They offer a variety of different options on select nights throughout October. Show Nights gives you access to all three scare trails. These are recommended for ages 13 and up. However, children under 13 are allowed if accompanied by an adult. Total Eclipse Nights are for ages 18+ and offer a little more intense scares. Make-A-Wish Kid’s Day is for all ages and Special Needs Nights offers lower crowds and a catered timeline for those who need it. A Petrified Forest has everything you need on their site to purchase tickets and plan your trip.
Spooky Empire, International Drive
Spooky Empire is a Horror Convention occurring October 21-23 at the Hyatt Regency on International Drive in Orlando. This event has grown significantly since its inception in 2003. For tickets and details about this convention, visit the Spooky Empire site.
Scream-A-Geddon, Dade City
Scream-A-Geddon has six attractions in one location. This horror filled experience will take place select nights in September and every night in October. Tickets start at around $26.95. You can visit their page to purchase tickets and find more information.
Scream n’ Stream, The Floridia Mall
Like The Haunted Road, Scream n’ Stream is another haunted driving experience. This one, however, comes with a good cause. Ticket sales for Scream n’ Stream will benefit the Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida helping families in need put food on their tables. This experience is located at the Oveido Mall and will run throughout September and October on primarily weekends. Check out the Scream n’ Stream website for the latest details.
Halloween Lights at Jeater Bend, Celebration
In case you thought the Christmas Lights at Jeater Bend were great, they have Halloween lights too! If you’ve never seen it, this festive street in Celebration, Florida puts on a fantastic holiday light display. It’s a great family-friendly and free experience. You can stay up to date on the lights by following their Facebook Page.
After compiling this list, I realize there really is so much to do in the Orlando and Central Florida area, especially when it comes to holiday events. If you are ready to make the move to Florida and take advantage of all the great entertainment opportunities, our Moving to Orlando REALTORS are here to help you navigate the market. Take a moment to fill out our contact form, and someone will be in contact with you!
