Get ready to embrace the spooky season in Austin! Halloween is just around the corner, and it’s the perfect time to gather your family, put on your costumes, and dive into the best family-friendly Halloween activities near Austin. From haunted houses to pumpkin patches, this vibrant city offers a plethora of exciting options to make this Halloween unforgettable. So, whether you’re searching for thrilling scares or delightful treats, we’ve got you covered. Let’s explore the top family-friendly Halloween activities in Austin that will leave you screaming with delight!

About Austin

Austin is the capital of Texas and the fourth-largest city in the state. It is known for its vibrant music scene, outdoor activities, and cultural attractions.

Halloween Activities

1. Pumpkin Patch Fun: Explore local pumpkin patches near Austin for a festive Halloween experience.

Pumpkin Picking and Carving

1. Sweet Berry Farm Pumpkin Patch

Location: Marble Falls, TX
Dates: October 1st – November 7th, 2023
Description: Explore acres of pumpkins at Sweet Berry Farm, perfect for picking the ideal canvas for your Halloween masterpiece. Don’t miss their charming hayrides and corn mazes!

2. Crow’s Nest Farm

Location: 10300 Taylor Ln, Manor, TX
Dates: October 1st – October 31st, 2023
Description: Visit Crow’s Nest Farm for a rustic pumpkin-picking experience. This charming farm is perfect for families seeking a tranquil fall adventure.

3. Evergreen Farms

Location: 242 Monkey Rd, Elgin, TX
Dates: October 1st – October 31st, 2023
Description: Evergreen Farms is a hidden gem for pumpkin enthusiasts. Enjoy a wagon ride, a petting zoo, and, of course, a fantastic selection of pumpkins.

4. Pumpkin Carving 101

Location: Your own home!
Date: Anytime
Description: Get creative with pumpkin carving at home. Use our DIY pumpkin carving guide here to transform your pumpkins into spooky works of art.

2. Haunted House Adventuress: Discover spooky haunted houses in and around Austin for a thrilling scare.

Spooky Haunted Houses:

1. House of Torment

Location: 2632 Ridgepoint Dr, Austin, TX
Dates: September 24th – November 6th, 2023
Description: Get ready for heart-pounding scares at the House of Torment. On certain nights, they offer a family-friendly experience with fewer frights, making it perfect for kids.

2. Scare for a Cure Haunted House

Location: 14219 Littig Rd, Manor, TX
Dates: October 20th – October 31st, 2023
Description: Scare for a Cure is not just a haunted house; it’s a charitable event dedicated to fighting cancer. Enjoy spooky thrills while supporting a great cause.

3. Boo at the Zoo

Location: Austin Zoo, 10808 Rawhide Trail, Austin, TX
Dates: October 20th – 22nd, 2023
Description: Boo at the Zoo offers a delightful family event with safe scares, close animal encounters, and plenty of trick-or-treat stations. It’s Halloween fun in a unique setting.

4. House of Torment – Kid’s Night

Location: 2632 Ridgepoint Dr, Austin, TX
Dates: October 29th, 2023
Description: House of Torment presents a special Kid’s Night on October 29th. It’s a chance for younger visitors to enjoy the thrills with age-appropriate scares.

5. Pioneer Farms Haunted Trail of Lights

Location: Pioneer Farms, 10621 Pioneer Farms Dr, Austin, TX
Dates: October 20th – October 21st, 2023
Description: Experience the eerie yet family-friendly Haunted Trail of Lights at Pioneer Farms. It’s a unique Halloween adventure your family won’t forget.

Austin’s Trick-or-Treating Hotspots:

1. Cedar Park – The Halloween Capital of Texas

Location: Cedar Park, TX
Date: October 31st, 2023
Description: Cedar Park proudly holds the title of “The Halloween Capital of Texas.” Each year, the neighborhood transforms into a Halloween wonderland. Visit Cedar Park Halloween Guide for details on their annual Spooktober event.

2. Mueller Community

Location: Mueller, Austin, TX
Date: October 31st, 2023
Description: The Mueller community is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and Halloween spirit. Streets are filled with elaborately decorated homes and welcoming neighbors eager to hand out treats.

3. Hyde Park

Location: Hyde Park, Austin, TX
Date: October 31st, 2023
Description: Hyde Park is famous for its historic charm, and Halloween is no exception. Stroll through the tree-lined streets and enjoy the festive decorations and friendly residents.

4. Circle C Ranch

Location: Circle C Ranch, Austin, TX
Date: October 31st, 2023
Description: Circle C Ranch boasts wide sidewalks and well-lit streets, making it a safe and delightful spot for trick-or-treating. Many homeowners go all out with creative displays.

5. Allandale

Location: Allandale, Austin, TX
Date: October 31st, 2023
Description: Allandale’s tree-lined streets and close-knit community create a perfect trick-or-treating environment. Be sure to explore this charming neighborhood.

6. Safety Tips for Trick-or-Treating

Location: Everywhere
Date: Always
Description: Remember, safety is paramount. Check out the CDC’s Halloween Safety Tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable trick-or-treating experience for your family.

Austin’s Costume Contests and Parades

1. Chuy’s Halloween Parade

Location: Downtown Austin, TX
Date: October 29th, 2023
Description: Chuy’s Halloween Parade is a beloved Austin tradition. Dress up your family and pets in creative costumes and join the parade down Congress Avenue. Visit Chuy’s Parade Info for details and registration.

2. Boo at the Central Market

Location: Central Market, North Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX
Date: October 28th, 2023
Description: Central Market’s annual “Boo at the Central Market” is a family-friendly extravaganza. Join the costume contest, enjoy live music, and trick-or-treat throughout the market.

3. SoCo Pumpkin Fest

Location: South Congress Avenue, Austin, TX
Date: October 21st – 22nd, 2023
Description: South Congress Avenue comes alive with the SoCo Pumpkin Fest. Enjoy costume contests, pumpkin decorating, live music, and much more. It’s a vibrant celebration of Halloween!

4. Safety Tips for Costume Contests and Parades

Location: Everywhere
Date: Always
Description: Remember, safety is essential during costume contests and parades. Keep an eye on your little ones and adhere to Halloween Safety Tips.

Austin’s Fall Festivals and Carnivals

1. Austin City Limits Music Festival

Location: Zilker Park, Austin, TX
Dates: October 6th – 8th and 13th – 15th, 2023
Description: The Austin City Limits Music Festival isn’t just about music. It’s a festival that captures the essence of fall with local food vendors, art installations, and a family-friendly atmosphere.

2. Pecan Street Festival

Location: East Sixth Street, Austin, TX
Date: September 24th – 25th, 2023
Description: The Pecan Street Festival is a beloved tradition in Austin. Explore over 300 artisan vendors, enjoy live music, and savor delicious food from local vendors.

3. Texas Renaissance Festival

Location: Todd Mission, TX (near Austin)
Dates: October 8th – November 27th, 2023 (Weekends)
Description: Venture back in time at the Texas Renaissance Festival. This immersive experience includes jousting, artisans, and delicious turkey legs—a true taste of autumn.

4. Hutto Olde Tyme Days

Location: Downtown Hutto, TX
Date: October 21st – 22nd, 2023
Description: Hutto Olde Tyme Days is a charming festival featuring carnival rides, live entertainment, a car show, and plenty of classic fair food.

5. Viva La Vida Festival

Location: Mexic-Arte Museum, Austin, TX
Date: October 29th, 2023
Description: The Viva La Vida Festival celebrates Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) with art, music, traditional ofrendas (altars), and cultural performances.

6. Safety Tips for Fall Festivals and Carnivals

Location: Everywhere
Date: Always
Description: As you enjoy fall festivals and carnivals, keep safety in mind. Read these Fall Festival Safety Tips to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience for your family.

Embrace the Beauty of Fall!

Austin’s fall festivals and carnivals offer a vibrant mix of entertainment and cultural experiences. Plan your outings, savor autumnal delights, and make cherished memories with your family. It’s time to celebrate the beauty of fall in Austin!

Austin’s Halloween Movie Nights

1. Blue Starlite Mini Urban Drive-In

Location: Multiple Locations in Austin
Dates: Throughout October 2023
Description: The Blue Starlite Mini Urban Drive-In brings Halloween classics to life in a nostalgic drive-in setting. Snuggle up in your car and enjoy movies like “Hocus Pocus,” “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” and “Ghostbusters.”

2. Movies in the Park – Halloween Edition

Location: Various Parks in Austin
Dates: Select Fridays in October 2023
Description: Austin Parks and Recreation hosts “Movies in the Park – Halloween Edition.” Gather your picnic blanket, some snacks, and enjoy family-friendly Halloween films in picturesque park settings.

3. Community Cinema: “Psycho”

Location: Community First! Village, Austin, TX
Date: October 28th, 2023
Description: Community Cinema at Community First! Village presents an outdoor screening of Alfred Hitchcock’s “Psycho.” Enjoy a spooky movie night while supporting a great cause.

4. Halloween Movie Nights at The Haunting of Blanton

Location: The Blanton Museum of Art, Austin, TX
Dates: October 20th – 27th, 2023
Description: The Blanton Museum invites you to “The Haunting of Blanton.” Enjoy eerie art installations and outdoor movie screenings, including the silent film classic “Nosferatu.”

5. Sound & Cinema: “The Rocky Horror Picture Show”

Location: Long Center for the Performing Arts, Austin, TX
Date: October 11th, 2023
Description: The Sound & Cinema series presents “The Rocky Horror Picture Show.” Get ready for a night of interactive fun, costumes, and the cult classic.

6. Safety Tips for Halloween Movie Nights

Location: Everywhere
Date: Always
Description: When attending outdoor movie screenings, keep safety in mind. Read these Outdoor Movie Night Safety Tips for a secure and enjoyable experience.

Dive into Spooky Cinema!

Austin’s Halloween Movie Nights offer a unique blend of cinematic magic and the enchantment of the great outdoors. Grab your popcorn, your coziest blanket, and prepare for thrilling nights of Halloween classics. It’s time to dive into spooky cinema under the Austin night sky!

Austin’s Spooky Storytelling

2. Austin Public Library’s Ghost Stories

Location: Various Austin Public Library branches
Dates: Select Dates in October 2023
Description: The Austin Public Library hosts ghost story sessions for all ages. Gather around as skilled storytellers spin tales of the supernatural and the unexplained.

3. Spooky Tales at Pioneer Farms

Location: Pioneer Farms, 10621 Pioneer Farms Dr, Austin, TX
Dates: October 13th – 14th, 20th – 21st, 27th – 28th, 2023
Description: Experience spine-tingling narratives at Pioneer Farms. Their “Spooky Tales” event combines historical storytelling with ghostly encounters.

4. Scream Hollow Wicked Halloween Park

Location: Scream Hollow, Smithville, TX (near Austin)
Dates: September 17th – November 5th, 2023
Description: Scream Hollow is not just a haunted house; it’s a place where legends and lore come to life. Explore haunted trails and hear terrifying stories amidst a creepy atmosphere.

5. Austin Ghost Tours

Location: Downtown Austin, TX
Dates: Ongoing throughout the year
Description: Austin Ghost Tours offers year-round spooky adventures in the heart of the city. Join their experienced guides as they share tales of Austin’s haunted history.

6. Safety Tips for Spooky Storytelling Events

Location: Everywhere
Date: Always
Description: While enjoying spooky storytelling, keep safety in mind. Check out these Event Safety Tips to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience.

Dive into Chilling Narratives!

Austin’s Spooky Storytelling events offer a thrilling journey into the world of the supernatural. Whether you’re by a campfire or in a theatrical setting, prepare to be captivated by tales that will haunt your imagination. It’s time to dive into chilling narratives in the heart of Austin!

Austin’s Harvest Festivities

1. Sweet Eats Fruit Farm

Location: Georgetown, TX (near Austin)
Dates: September – November 2023
Description: Sweet Eats Fruit Farm is a haven for harvest lovers. Pick your own apples, explore a challenging corn maze, enjoy pumpkin patches, and embark on hayrides for an unforgettable day.

2. Barton Hill Farms

Location: Bastrop, TX (near Austin)
Dates: Weekends in October 2023
Description: Barton Hill Farms is a picturesque spot for all things fall. Navigate through their elaborate corn maze, pick pumpkins, and savor tasty treats amidst scenic views.

3. Crow’s Nest Farm

Location: 10300 Taylor Ln, Manor, TX (near Austin)
Dates: October 1st – October 31st, 2023
Description: Crow’s Nest Farm invites you to experience the rustic charm of a working farm. Engage in apple picking, explore their corn maze, and take leisurely hayrides.

4. Elgin Christmas Tree Farm

Location: Elgin, TX (near Austin)
Dates: October 7th – October 29th, 2023
Description: The Elgin Christmas Tree Farm transforms into a fall wonderland. Enjoy pumpkin picking, a hay bale maze, farm animals, and scenic hayrides.

5. Cross Plants and Produce

Location: Kyle, TX (near Austin)
Dates: October 1st – October 31st, 2023
Description: Cross Plants and Produce offers a delightful family-friendly atmosphere. Select your perfect pumpkin, wander through a corn maze, and embrace the joy of hayrides.

6. Safety Tips for Harvest Festivities

Location: Everywhere
Date: Always
Description: While enjoying harvest festivities, prioritize safety. Follow these Harvest Festival Safety Tips to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience.

Embrace the Harvest Season!

Austin’s harvest festivities are a celebration of the bountiful season, offering a myriad of family-friendly activities. Gather your loved ones, indulge in farm-fresh delights, and create cherished memories amidst the beauty of autumn. It’s time to embrace the harvest season near Austin!

Austin’s Halloween Crafts and Workshops

1. Crafty Halloween Decorations at Austin Creative Reuse

Location: Austin Creative Reuse, Austin, TX
Dates: Various sessions in October 2023
Description: Join workshops at Austin Creative Reuse to craft Halloween decorations using reclaimed materials. Create eco-friendly and unique spooky decor.

2. DIY Costume Workshops at Stitch Lab

Location: Stitch Lab, Austin, TX
Dates: Multiple dates in October 2023
Description: Stitch Lab offers DIY costume workshops. Learn to design and sew your own Halloween costume under the guidance of skilled instructors.

3. Pumpkin Carving Workshops at The Cathedral

Location: The Cathedral, Austin, TX
Dates: October 14th and 21st, 2023
Description: The Cathedral hosts pumpkin carving workshops. Get expert tips and unleash your creativity on pumpkins for spooky Jack-o’-lanterns.

4. Spooky Crafting at the Dougherty Arts Center

Location: Dougherty Arts Center, Austin, TX
Dates: Various sessions in October 2023
Description: The Dougherty Arts Center offers spooky crafting sessions for all ages. Create Halloween-themed art and crafts to decorate your home.

5. Halloween Costume Making at Upcycle

Location: Upcycle, Austin, TX
Dates: Multiple dates in October 2023
Description: Upcycle hosts Halloween costume making workshops. Transform ordinary materials into extraordinary costumes.

6. Safety Tips for Halloween Crafts and Workshops

Location: Everywhere
Date: Always
Description: When attending craft workshops, prioritize safety. Review these Craft Workshop Safety Tips for a secure and enjoyable experience.

Get Crafty for Halloween!

Austin’s Halloween Crafts and Workshops provide the perfect opportunity to unleash your creativity and bring your Halloween visions to life. Whether it’s spooky decorations or unique costumes, these hands-on sessions ensure you have a memorable and crafty Halloween. It’s time to get crafty for a spooktacular Austin Halloween!

Austin’s Trick or Treat Trails

1. Mueller Lake Park Halloween Trail

Location: Mueller Lake Park, Austin, TX
Date: October 29th, 2023
Description: The Mueller Lake Park Halloween Trail is a spooktacular event featuring a trail filled with candy stations. Little ones can dress up in their Halloween best and enjoy a safe and delightful trick-or-treating experience.

2. Fall Fun Fest at Oak Hill United Methodist Church

Location: Oak Hill United Methodist Church, Austin, TX
Date: October 31st, 2023
Description: The Fall Fun Fest at Oak Hill United Methodist Church is a family-friendly event that includes a Trick or Treat Trail. Kids can explore various candy stations and enjoy games and activities.

3. Round Rock’s Monster Mash

Location: Downtown Round Rock, TX (near Austin)
Date: October 21st, 2023
Description: Round Rock’s Monster Mash features a Trick or Treat Trail as part of its Halloween festivities. Dress up and collect candies along Main Street.

4. Safety Tips for Trick or Treat Trails

Location: Everywhere
Date: Always
Description: Ensure a safe and enjoyable trick-or-treating experience by following these Halloween Safety Tips.

Collect Candy, Create Memories!

Trick or Treat Trails in Austin offer a fantastic opportunity for kids to enjoy the excitement of Halloween while collecting their favorite candies. Dress up in your spookiest or silliest costume, grab your trick-or-treat bag, and embark on these candy-filled adventures. It’s time to collect candy and create cherished Halloween memories!

Tips for a Spooktacular Halloween Experience

Halloween is a time for fun, frights, and creating lasting memories. Whether you’re attending events, going trick-or-treating, or enjoying festive activities, here are some essential tips to ensure your Halloween is both safe and spooktacular.

1. Plan Ahead

Event Research: If you plan to attend Halloween events, research them in advance. Check event details, dates, and any specific requirements or restrictions.
Costume Preparation: Plan your costumes well ahead of time. This allows for any necessary adjustments or repairs and ensures everyone in your group is ready to dress up.
Route for Trick-or-Treating: If you’re going trick-or-treating, plan your route. Choose well-lit neighborhoods and map out the houses you want to visit.

2. Dress to Impress

Comfort is Key: While creativity is encouraged, prioritize comfort in your costume. Ensure it fits well, and you can move easily, especially if you’ll be walking or attending events.
Weather-Appropriate: Consider the weather conditions for the evening. Add layers or choose costumes that can accommodate warmer or cooler temperatures.
Visibility: If your costume includes masks or face coverings, make sure they don’t obstruct your vision. Safety should always come first.

3. Safety First

Travel in Groups: Trick-or-treat or attend events with friends or family. There’s safety in numbers, and it’s more enjoyable when shared with loved ones.
Stay Visible: If you’ll be out after dark, incorporate reflective elements into your costume or carry a flashlight to ensure you’re visible to drivers.
Inspect Candy: For those collecting treats, examine all candy before consuming. Look for tampering or opened packaging and discard any suspicious items.
Follow Health Guidelines: Be mindful of any health guidelines or recommendations, especially if there are specific safety measures in place during the event you’re attending.

Embracing the enchanting world of Halloween in Austin reveals a city that knows how to celebrate this spooky season with creativity and safety in mind. Whether you’re navigating haunted houses, enjoying family-friendly trick-or-treat trails, crafting imaginative costumes, or immersing yourself in cinematic thrills, Austin offers a diverse range of Halloween experiences. The commitment to family-friendly delights, spooky storytelling, harvest-themed magic, and animal encounters ensures that everyone can find their perfect Halloween adventure. As you plan your Austin Halloween, remember to prioritize safety, dress comfortably, and let your imagination run wild. In Austin, Halloween isn’t just a holiday; it’s a spooktacular celebration of creativity, community, and cherished memories.