by Roanoke, Virginia — Halloween 2026 brings opportunities for spooky adventures, family-friendly celebrations and autumn activities across Roanoke and the surrounding Blue Ridge region. With Halloween falling on Saturday, October 31, families can plan a full weekend of costume parties, pumpkin-themed outings, haunted experiences and community trick-or-treating.
Known for its mountain scenery, historic neighborhoods and lively local events, Roanoke offers a seasonal setting for visitors of different ages. Whether you’re planning activities with young children or looking for a scarier Halloween experience, checking local event schedules ahead of time can help you make the most of the holiday.
1. Terror Manor Haunted House
Halloween enthusiasts seeking an intense scare can visit Terror Manor, a seasonal haunted house in Roanoke. The attraction features more than 40 themed rooms filled with elaborate sets, unsettling characters and immersive special effects.
The 2026 season includes Friday and Saturday performances during October. The attraction is located at 805 Norfolk Avenue SW and is better suited to visitors who enjoy frightening experiences than to very young children.
2. Old Southwest Halloween Lantern Parade and Festival
The Old Southwest Halloween Lantern Parade and Festival is a community celebration featuring illuminated lanterns, costumes, art activities and seasonal entertainment.
The 2026 festival is scheduled for Saturday, October 24, from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Activities include art workshops, local vendors, music, dancing and a costume contest around the Alexander Gish House and Highland Park area.
The event offers an opportunity for families and visitors to enjoy Halloween-themed creativity and community spirit before October 31.
3. Trunk-or-Treat at Eureka Park
Families looking for a straightforward Halloween activity can attend Trunk-or-Treat at Eureka Park on Saturday, October 31, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
The community event invites children to wear costumes and collect candy from decorated vehicles. It provides a welcoming environment for families who prefer organized trick-or-treating rather than going door to door.
The event is open to all ages and is a convenient option for families planning their Halloween afternoon.
4. Haunted Rec Center at Grandin Court
The Haunted Rec Center transforms the Grandin Court Recreation Center into a spooky Halloween attraction for older children and adults.
The 2026 event is scheduled for October 28 and 29 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., and October 30 from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Visitors can walk through darkened spaces designed to create a haunted atmosphere.
The attraction is intended for guests aged 16 and older. Admission is free, and advance registration is not required.
5. Zoo Boo at Mill Mountain Zoo
Families can celebrate Halloween at Zoo Boo, a seasonal event at Mill Mountain Zoo featuring animal encounters, candy collection and costume activities.
The 2026 event is scheduled for October 24 and 25, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with last admission at 4 p.m.
Activities include trick-or-treating around the zoo, costume contests, face painting, games and special pumpkin feedings for the animals. Children can enjoy Halloween-themed entertainment while learning about wildlife.
Presale tickets were listed at $13 for adults, $12 for seniors aged 55 and older, and $11 for children ages 3–11. Children aged two and under enter free. Gate prices are higher, so visitors should confirm current ticket availability before attending.
6. Spooky Tours at the Taubman Museum of Art
The Taubman Museum of Art offers another option for visitors who want to combine Halloween with an arts and culture outing.
Spooky Tours are scheduled for October 30 and 31, with activities listed from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. The museum’s Halloween programming gives visitors a chance to explore the venue in a seasonal setting.
Families should check the age suitability, tour format and admission requirements before planning a visit.
7. Spooky Boo Spectacular
The Roanoke City Sheriff’s Office is organizing its annual Spooky Boo Spectacular on Saturday, October 31, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Berglund Center, 710 Williamson Road NE.
The free community celebration features trunk-or-treating, candy for children, hot dogs, chips, drinks, music, games and a best-decorated-trunk contest.
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The event provides a family-friendly way to celebrate Halloween in a supervised community setting. Children can wear costumes and enjoy treats and activities throughout the evening.
8. Halloween Hootenanny
Adults and older Halloween fans can consider Halloween Hootenanny at Twisted Track Brewpub on October 31.
The event is scheduled for 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. and features a live DJ, country line dancing with Salsa Noke and a costume competition. Gift cards are planned for costume contest winners.
The event is listed as free to attend and offers a lively alternative to traditional haunted attractions.
Which Halloween event in Roanoke would you choose this year? Share your favorite activities and Halloween plans in the comments.
