Halloween Activities for the Whole Family in HBG

Halloween is fast approaching, and Harrisburg is all set to celebrate this ghoulish holiday with a range of exciting events. Whether you're a thrill-seeker, a family looking for some spooky fun, or someone who enjoys the more lighthearted aspects of Halloween, there's something for everyone in Harrisburg. Check out some of the top Halloween events in the city below:

Midtown CinemaAAH! (all month long)

For movie buffs, the Midtown Cinema offers special Halloween film screenings. Enjoy classic horror movies, cult favorites, and family-friendly spooky films in this intimate and charming theater. It's the perfect way to unwind and get into the Halloween mood.

Organ Spooktacular: The Masquerade Ball (Oct 20)

Arts on the Square presents a rousing Halloween treat, Organ Spooktacular: The Masquerade Ball on Friday, October 20, at 7:30 p.m. at Market Square Church, 20 S. Second St. This popular event is a mixture of spooky and fun organ music on Harrisburg's newest pipe organ.

In addition to the sounds of the mighty pipe organ from Canonico and organ scholar Ethan Draper, the program includes dances by students of The Studio in Enola; songs by Harrisburg baritone Jordan Markham; and musical numbers by The Market Square Singers.

Event goers are asked to dress for a masquerade ball or wear an eye mask and join in the fun!

Harrisburg's Historic Cold Cases (Oct 20)

True crime enthusiasts, unite! Historic Harrisburg Association invites you to immerse yourself in the mysteries of "Harrisburg's Historic Cold Cases" as we kick off the Halloween season.

Come out on October 20th from 6-9 PM for a spine-tingling 3rd in the Burg event. As you explore this bone-chilling exhibit, enjoy complimentary refreshments and engage in conversations with the exhibit curators. Delve into the enigmatic cold case mysteries that have gripped Harrisburg for over a century, with real crime scene photographs, witness interviews, and clues to challenge your detective skills.

This spooktacular event is free to the public! 

Bonus: Check out the Landmark Tour: “Notorious Notables,” a guided tour of Harrisburg Cemetery on Saturday, October 21  November 4. (updated 10/20/23)

Night at the Nature Center (Oct 21)

Embark on a captivating after-hours adventure at the Olewine Nature Center during the Night at the Nature Center on October 21st. Watch in amazement as the exhibit hall critters come to life before your eyes. Kids will have the opportunity to meet these animated animals, partake in various activities such as making s'mores by the campfire, sipping apple cider, engaging in a fun craft, and enjoying a not-so-scary Halloween story.

We encourage everyone to don their favorite animal costume or a Halloween outfit. And of course, don't forget your trusty trick or treat bag! Space is limited, so be sure to register in advance for one of the three available timeslots.

Bonus: Join a Naturalist for a chance to learn about some nocturnal animals to help you get into the Halloween spirit at Kids Discover: Spooky Species on October 28.

Murder at the Malt Shop (Oct 22)

Transport yourself to a night of intrigue with "Murder at the Malt Shop" on October 22nd. It's a night of "Who did it?" where everyone is a suspect. Dress in your finest 50's attire, whether it's your favorite old letter sweater or a classic poodle skirt. Enjoy a delectable steak or chicken dinner. Reservations and tickets are required to ensure the headcount for this unforgettable event.

Court Street Cabaret (CSC): Halloween Edition (Oct 26)

Join us for an evening of hauntingly beautiful melodies and spook-tacular entertainment featuring your beloved CSC performers. This one-night extravaganza is dedicated to Halloween-themed Broadway and pop tunes, hosted by the dynamic duo Alexis Campbell and TJ Creedon. Get ready for a mesmerizing transformation of The Court Street Cabaret lounge into a haunted haven, complete with specialty potions for you to sip while you settle in for the performance.

Whether you're a musical theater aficionado or just someone who loves a good Halloween celebration, this Court Street Cabaret promises to be the ideal way to kickstart your spooky season. Get your tickets here.

Bonus: See the Exorcist, playing now through October 31

Halloween Bash at the Brownstone (Oct 25)

Bonus: Watch Halloween movies at the Bandshell

Mad Scientists Trick-Or-Treat Trail (Oct 28)

Prepare to be amazed  as you traverse the Mad Scientists Trick-Or-Treat Trail on October 28, 2023, from 9:30 am to 11:45 am at the Whitaker Center. This thrilling trail includes a variety of eerie experiment stations hosted by brilliant scientists who've gone a little mad, featuring:

• Specimen Viewing hosted by Charles Darwin
• Lava hosted by Ruth Benerito
• Jumping Ghosts hosted by Scientist Ben Franklin
• Make-and-Take Rockets hosted by Mary Jackson

As part of the trail, you can also explore Halloween-themed Scratch Coding and Minecraft activities. It's an educational and spooky adventure perfect for the whole family!

For a full list of all the happenings in Harrisburg, visit our calendar of events.