by New York City, NY — Halloween celebrations are taking over New York City as families, costume lovers and visitors prepare for the final days of October. With Halloween falling on Saturday, October 31, 2026, the city has a packed calendar of neighborhood festivals, free family activities, haunted attractions and late-night costume parties.
From Brooklyn’s community celebrations to Manhattan’s Halloween events and Queens’ family activities, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the season. Several events are scheduled for October 24–25, while additional celebrations are planned for October 28–31.
Free Halloween Events in NYC This Weekend
Families looking for Halloween events in New York City this weekend have several options.
Halloween Fest at Fort Greene Park is scheduled for Saturday, October 24, from noon to 4 p.m. at Monument Plaza in Brooklyn. The free event includes spooky stories, face painting, family-friendly games and other seasonal activities. No RSVP is required. A rain date of October 25 is listed by the city.
Another option is NYC’s Trick-or-Streets program, which turns selected streets and plazas into car-free spaces for Halloween celebrations. Events across the five boroughs include community activities, games, entertainment and trick-or-treating opportunities.
On Saturday, October 24, participating locations include Water Street Open Street on Staten Island, the Bronx Halloween Parade on Westchester Avenue, and Halloween activities on Ditmars Boulevard in Queens. Their hours vary by location, so families should check the individual event listing before traveling.
Halloween Events in Manhattan
Manhattan has several options for people looking for Halloween activities before October 31.
On Wednesday, October 28, the Canal Street Open Street and Division Plaza program is scheduled from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. as part of the city’s Trick-or-Streets celebrations. The event is organized in partnership with local community groups.
The Seaport district also has seasonal activities, including a pumpkin-themed photo installation and Halloween programming at participating venues. Visitors planning a trip should confirm each attraction’s operating dates and any reservation requirements.
Families should distinguish free public activities from private ticketed events, particularly when planning a full day around Lower Manhattan.
Brooklyn and Queens Halloween Celebrations
Brooklyn and Queens have multiple neighborhood events scheduled during the final week of October.
In Brooklyn, the city’s Trick-or-Streets calendar includes a Halloween celebration on President Street on October 24, from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., as well as events on Franklin Avenue, Roebling Street and Fifth Avenue later that day.
Queens also has several scheduled activities. The Austin Street Open Street event in Forest Hills is listed for Sunday, October 25, with programming from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. Other neighborhood celebrations are scheduled in areas including Ditmars Boulevard and Woodhaven.
These events can be useful for families seeking community-based Halloween activities without planning a trip into Manhattan.
Halloween Events in NYC on October 30
Friday, October 30, brings more Halloween activities across the city.
At the Shirley Chisholm Recreation Center in Brooklyn, a Halloween Hallow Gala is scheduled from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. The family event includes a haunted house, carnival activities, arts and crafts, games, music, pumpkin decorating and costume and dance contests.
Queens also has the Mad Monster Lab Haunted House and Fall Festival at Bowne Park Field House, scheduled from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Activities include seasonal crafts, games, inflatables and a haunted maze.
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These recreation-center events provide options for families who want to celebrate before Halloween night itself.
New York City’s Village Halloween Parade
One of the city’s best-known Halloween traditions is the Village Halloween Parade, scheduled for Saturday, October 31, at 7 p.m. in Greenwich Village.
The annual parade features elaborate costumes, giant puppets and theatrical performances along Sixth Avenue. Spectators can watch from the route, while people interested in participating should check the official parade guidance for current entry and lineup information.
Because the event attracts large crowds, visitors should plan their transportation and arrival time in advance.
Halloween Parties and Nightlife in NYC
Adults looking for Halloween nightlife can find costume parties, themed gatherings and late-night events across Manhattan and other boroughs.
Several private Halloween parties are advertised for October 29 through November 1, including rooftop events, masquerade-themed parties and nightlife gatherings. Many are restricted to guests aged 21 and older, and tickets or reservations may be required.
Check the age restrictions, venue rules, ticket availability and event start times before making plans.
What to Know Before Attending Halloween Events
Event schedules can change because of weather, capacity limits or organizer updates. Families should verify the latest details before leaving home, especially for outdoor events.
For free community celebrations, check whether registration is required and whether activities are suitable for younger children. For private parties and ticketed attractions, confirm prices and entry rules directly with the organizer.
With celebrations spread across all five boroughs, New York City offers plenty of options for Halloween weekend. Whether you’re looking for free family activities, neighborhood trick-or-treating, a parade or a costume party, checking the event details ahead of time can help you make the most of October 24–31.
Which New York City Halloween event are you planning to attend this year? Share your plans or local event recommendations with other readers.
