Food & Drink
Halloween Events in the Seattle Area
From pub crawls to pumpkin fests, there are some great Halloween events throughout October
By Danny Calkins September 29, 2015
When Pope Gregory III designated November 1 as All Saints Day in the 8th century to honor fallen saints and martyrs, he probably didn’t envision the night before—dubbed All Hallow’s Eve—blossoming into the raucous, indulgent and oftentimes scandalous celebration we know and love today as Halloween.
But truth be told, the pope laid the groundwork for one of my favorite holidays and for that I am forever grateful, especially since Halloween isn’t just a one-day celebration anymore. There are some great events—pumpkin fests, pub crawls and 5Ks—happening throughout October that make for a scary good time.
If you’re looking for some great places to trick or treat, read Where to Trick or Treat this Halloween.
BRING THE KIDS
Zoo Boo at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium
October 17-18 (10 a.m.-4 p.m.)
Prices Vary
Two years ago I was a polar bear for Halloween and I couldn’t help but think to myself, “What would a bear think about my costume?” Would it feel insulted or flattered?
Zoo Boo is your chance to put on your best costume—it doesn’t have to be animal-related, but coming in costume gets you $2 off general admission—and discover some amazing, family-friendly exhibits.
October 10, 7-10 p.m.
Prices Vary
More like the Lantern FUN 5K! This nighttime jaunt around Magnuson Park is a great way to burn some calories before over-indulging in candy during the weeks leading up to Halloween. Tickets get you a commemorative 2015 race bib, an official moisture-wicking race shirt, glow gear, entrance to the after-party and your very own LED lantern that you can re-gift for Christmas two months later.
October 2-31 (Fridays-Sundays)
Prices Vary
If clinging to dear life while upside down on a roller coaster doesn’t give you a scare, visit Fright Fest’s two haunted houses. Admission to the event also grants you access to more than 20 amusement rides and Booville—a scare-free zone with a giant inflatable slide, face-painting, photo booths and more for kids 12 and younger.
Days and times vary
$18
This event, hosted by Thomas Family Farm, combines the thrill of fending off an army of evil zombies without the actual threat of being eaten alive. Grab a paint gun and fire away at the approaching undead—and very brave (unarmed) volunteers.
October 24 (9:30 a.m.)-October 25 (3 p.m.)
Free with zoo admission
You haven’t lived until you’ve seen a hippo devour a pumpkin. Discover a repertoire of animal behavior at this family-friendly event as hippos, bears, elephants, monkeys, and other animals crunch, smash or stomp on pumpkins.
October 31, 4-8 p.m.
Free
This fourth annual indoor event is fun for children (ages 10 and younger) and a welcome respite for parents who normally endure freezing temperatures following their tykes around town for some trick-or-treating. It is a safe, warm and cozy opportunity for kids to dress up and enjoy the Halloween experience, while probably learning a thing or two as well.
October 31, 10 a.m.
Prices Vary
Don’t let the name fool you, there’s nothing to be afraid of at this 5K fun run and 4K walk to benefit the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. There’s also a free kids dash for children 12 and younger.
October 24, 3 p.m.
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