by Erie, Pennsylvania — Halloween 2026 is bringing seasonal celebrations, spooky attractions and family-friendly activities to Erie as residents prepare for the holiday on Saturday, October 31. Located along the shores of Lake Erie, the city offers opportunities to enjoy autumn festivals, pumpkin-themed activities, costume contests and Halloween entertainment for visitors of different ages.
From children’s trick-or-treating events to haunted experiences for thrill-seekers, families can plan an October outing that matches their interests. The final weekend of the month is especially convenient for those looking to combine Halloween celebrations with seasonal activities around the city.
1. ZooBOO at the Erie Zoo
One of Erie’s popular seasonal attractions, ZooBOO, offers families a chance to celebrate Halloween with spooky decorations, candy stations and themed entertainment. The event runs nightly from October 15 through October 30, 2026, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Visitors can explore the zoo’s Halloween displays, hear jokes and stories from the Talking Pumpkins, enjoy the Spooky Jukebox and ride the Eerie Train Express. Children can dress in costumes and collect treats at designated booths.
The event also features a sensory-friendly evening designed for guests who prefer fewer flashing lights, loud noises and overstimulating activities. Since ZooBOO ends on October 30, families planning to attend should check ticket availability in advance.
2. Haunted Mini Golf and Zombie Laser Tag
For families and groups seeking a spooky activity before Halloween night, Adventures Erie is hosting Haunted Weekends through October 30, 2026.
The attraction combines an 18-hole haunted mini-golf course with zombie-themed laser tag. Fog effects, spooky lighting, Halloween decorations and costumed characters create an entertaining experience without relying heavily on graphic horror.
Activities are scheduled for Fridays and Saturdays from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m., with the last tickets sold at 10 p.m. Haunted mini golf is listed at $15, zombie laser tag at $15 and a combination ticket at $25.
The attraction welcomes all ages, although younger children may find some of the jump scares frightening.
3. Eerie Stories, Legends and Lore Ghost Tour
Visitors interested in Erie’s darker history can join the Eerie Stories, Legends and Lore Ghost Tour. The guided walking experience explores stories connected to local battles, shipwrecks, reported hauntings and historical mysteries.
Tours are scheduled through October 31, 2026, with evening walks lasting approximately 90 minutes. The experience begins at Flagship City Food Hall and provides an opportunity to learn about Erie’s past while exploring downtown after dark.
Tickets are listed at $20 for adults and $10 for children, with children aged four and younger admitted free. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
4. Spooky Trolley Ride
The Spooky Trolley offers another way to experience Halloween in downtown Erie. Scheduled for Saturday, October 31, from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m., the seasonal ride provides a themed outing for visitors who want to explore the city during Halloween evening.
The trolley experience can be a fun option for couples, friends and families looking for something different from traditional trick-or-treating. Visitors should confirm departure arrangements and ticket availability before arriving.
5. Ghostlight Halloween 5K
Runners and outdoor enthusiasts can celebrate Halloween with the inaugural Erie Playhouse Ghostlight Halloween 5K on Saturday, October 31, from 9 a.m. to noon.
The race welcomes runners of different ability levels and takes participants through downtown Erie. It offers an active way to begin Halloween before the day’s costume celebrations and evening activities.
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Participants should check registration requirements, race-day arrangements and any costume guidelines before attending.
6. Pumpkin Smash Weekend at Port Farms
Families looking for daytime fall entertainment can visit Port Farms for Pumpkin Smash Weekend on October 31 and November 1, 2026.
The seasonal celebration includes pumpkin bowling, pumpkin painting, a pumpkin destruction zone and scheduled giant pumpkin drops. On October 31, the farm is scheduled to operate from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Visitors wearing Halloween costumes on October 31 can receive discounted admission, according to the event announcement. The farm’s activities make it an option for families who want to combine Halloween celebrations with traditional autumn fun.
Which Halloween event in Erie would you choose this year? Share your favorite spooky attractions and fall traditions in the comments.
