8 Spooktacular Events to Check out in Westchester

The ghosts and goblins are out in full force as Westchester goes gonzo for pumpkin day!

Planning to stop by any of these spooktacular events? Photo by Tom Nycz for Historic Hudson Valley

’Tis the season for all things spooky, kooky, and spectacular throughout Westchester. Here’s where to celebrate.

The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze

Croton-on-Hudson; hudsonvalley.org

A yearly draw that never grows old, explore the 18th-century landscape at Van Cortlandt Manor (now through November) while marveling at more than 7,000 illuminated jack-o’-lanterns, all designed and hand-carved by artisans on-site — complete with synchronized lighting and original music. Prepare to be impressed by the new edition of the absolutely gourd-geous New York City skyline. Advance tickets required.

Jack O'Lantern Haunt
The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze in Croton-on-Hudson is a must-visit spooktacular event. Photo by Tom Nycz for Historic Hudson Valley

The Haunt at Rocky Ledge

White Plains; hauntatrockyledge.com

- Advertisement -

Take a walk on the spooky side through the woods to a pair of hair-raising haunted houses and Westchester’s only haunted cornfield on weekend nights, October 4 to November 2, during this yearly nightmarish, but fun, event.

Hudson Horrors

Rye; hudsonhorrors.com

During weekends in October, a visit to beloved Playland will scare the pants off you way faster than that first drop on the Dragon Coaster. Buckle up for a physically, emotionally, and psychologically immersive and interactive experience via live theater, storytelling, music, special effects, and spooky scents. Best for visitors ages 16 and up.

Hulda’s Night

Sleepy Hollow; visitsleepyhollow.com

Travel to the past (October 19–22 & 26–29) for an unforgettable night in the woods of Rockefeller State Park Preserve, with storytellers to enchant you with local legends and lanterns to guide you through the dark. Best for kids ages 10 and up.

- Partner Content -

The Rocky Horror Picture Show

Peekskill & Pelham

Dress up like your favorite character, prime your pipes, and don’t forget the rice, TP, and rubber gloves for a viewing of this outrageous cult classic on October 29 at Paramount Hudson Valley Theater (Peekskill) and at The Picture House (Pelham) on October 30 and 31.

Sleepy Hollow Haunted Hayride

Sleepy Hollow; visitsleepyhollow.com

Climb aboard this annual fright ride and rumble into the night following Ichabod Crane’s exact escape route from the Headless Horseman on October 21 and 22. If you live to tell about it, stop by the block party on Beekman Avenue for live music, family entertainment and activities, street vendors, and more.

Lyndhurst After Dark

Tarrytown; lyndhurst.org

- Advertisement -

New this Halloween, historic Lyndhurst Mansion welcomes guests at nightfall, October 27 to 30, for a tour that will discuss the darker side of history through those who resided at this renowned Gothic Revival country estate. Expect seasonal decorations and special collection items that speak to the superstitions of the time.

Tarrytown Halloween Parade

Tarrytown; visitsleepyhollow.com

The 20th annual Halloween Parade steps off from Patriot’s Park at 5:30 p.m. on October 29 (rain date: October 30), marching south along Broadway before ending up at Tarrytown’s Main Street for a block party with a DJ, live music, performers, outdoor dining, and more.

Related: Croton’s Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze: What You Need to Know

Our Westchester Home Builders Awards take place on April 4!

Our Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Forum is March 14!

Unveiled: A Boutique Bridal Brunch is February 25!

Our Best of Westchester Elimination Ballot is open through March 6!

Holiday flash sale ... subscribe and save 50%

Limited time offer. New subscribers only.