Halloween in Rochester, NY, promises to be an exciting and enchanting experience in 2024. As the autumn leaves change colors and the air grows crisp.
The city prepares for a festive season filled with thrilling events and activities. From haunted attractions to community gatherings, Rochester offers a wide array of experiences for all ages.
When Is Halloween in Rochester, NY?
Halloween is celebrated annually on October 31st. In 2024, this beloved holiday falls on a Thursday, creating opportunities for both midweek celebrations and weekend events.
Throughout October, Rochester will host a variety of Halloween activities, allowing everyone to participate in the seasonal fun.
Halloween events in Rochester, NY
As the spooky season approaches, Rochester, NY, is gearing up for a fantastic array of Halloween events in 2024.
The city will be buzzing with excitement, offering a variety of activities that cater to all ages, from thrilling haunted attractions to family-friendly festivals.
1. Halloween Fest at Lincoln Hill Farms
- Date: Fridays and Saturdays, October 4-26
- Time: Various times
- Venue: Lincoln Hill Farms
- This festive event turns the farm into a Halloween wonderland with decorations, themed activities, and entertainment for all ages. It’s perfect for families seeking a blend of autumn charm and Halloween fun.
2. Pumpkins in the Park
- Date: October 26
- Time: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Venue: Yellow Jacket Racing
- Participants can enjoy a festive 5K through a beautifully decorated park followed by pumpkin decorating contests and other family-oriented activities. It’s a fun way to stay active and indulge in the Halloween spirit.
3. Seneca Park Zoo: Spooktacular
- Date: October 17-19
- Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Venue: Seneca Park Zoo
- This event transforms the zoo into a spooky landscape, offering trick-or-treating among the exhibits and lots of Halloween-themed educational content, making it both fun and informative for children.
4. The Enchanted Forest
- Date: October 19
- Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Venue: RMSC Cumming Nature Center
- The Enchanted Forest is a night-time event where families can walk through a lit forest trail, meet various mythical creatures, and enjoy storytelling, adding a magical touch to the Halloween season.
5. Trick-or-Treating in the Historic Village
- Date: October 26-27
- Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Venue: Genesee Country Village & Museum
- Children can trick-or-treat in a safe and historical environment where they’ll receive goodies from costumed characters in authentic 19th-century homes and shops.
6. Halloween at the Market
- Date: October 27
- Time: 4:30 PM – 7:30 PM
- Venue: Rochester Public Market
- This community event includes trick-or-treating at market stalls, a costume parade, and various Halloween-themed activities, making it an ideal outing for families looking to celebrate in a bustling public setting.
7. Dinner and Ghost Stories
- Date: October 6, 13, 20, 27
- Time: Evening
- Venue: Union Tavern
- Enjoy a unique dining experience where guests can hear ghost stories from Rochester’s past, combined with a themed dinner, providing an eerie yet enjoyable evening for adults.
8. Mansion Mysteries
- Date: October 5, 12, 19, 26
- Time: Evening
- Venue: Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park
- This event offers a mystery dinner theatre set in the historic mansion, where guests can participate in solving a spooky mystery throughout the evening.
9. Toddler Trick-or-Treat
- Date: October 31
- Time: Morning
- Venue: The Strong Museum of Play
- Tailored for young children, this event allows toddlers to trick-or-treat in a safe and fun environment, with plenty of games and activities designed for little ones.
10. Dave & Boo-ster’s Halloween Party
- Date: October 31
- Time: All day
- Venue: Dave & Buster’s
- A family-friendly event where kids and adults can enjoy Halloween-themed arcade games and menu items in a lively and festive atmosphere.
11. Haunted Stroll
- Date: October 27
- Time: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Venue: Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Historic Park
- Join the Haunted Stroll for an eerie evening through the historic gardens and mansion. Participants can expect to hear ghost stories and tales of the mansion’s haunted history, creating a unique blend of education and entertainment.
12. Villains Family Fun Music Brunch
- Date: October 27
- Time: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Venue: OFC Creations Theatre Center
- This fun-filled brunch features family-friendly music and entertainment, allowing children to meet their favorite characters while enjoying delicious food. It’s a perfect way for families to celebrate Halloween in a lively atmosphere.
13. Halloween Family Brunch Cruise
- Date: October 27
- Time: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
- Venue: Colonial Belle
- Enjoy a scenic cruise on the water while indulging in a festive Halloween brunch. Families can dress up in costumes and enjoy themed activities onboard, making it a memorable Halloween experience.
14. Monster Mash Dance Party
- Date: October 31
- Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Venue: The Boys & Girls Club of Rochester
- This lively dance party invites kids to show off their costumes while dancing to fun Halloween-themed music. It’s a great way for children to celebrate the holiday in a safe and enjoyable environment.
15. Halloween Karaoke Night
- Date: October 31
- Time: 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Venue: 1000 Club Rd, Rochester, NY
- Celebrate Halloween with a spooky karaoke night, where attendees can sing their favorite Halloween songs. It’s a fun way for adults and teens to engage in the holiday spirit while enjoying the company of friends.
16. Pumpkin Parade
- Date: October 28
- Time: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
- Venue: Rochester City Hall
- This annual parade showcases creatively carved pumpkins and festive displays from local residents and artists. It’s a great family outing to appreciate the creativity and community spirit that Halloween brings.
17. Haunted History Tour
- Date: October 1-31
- Time: Various times
- Venue: Downtown Rochester
- This month-long tour explores the haunted history of Rochester, featuring stops at various historic sites. It’s a perfect blend of history and Halloween for those interested in the spooky stories of the city.
Overview Of Halloween Events In Rochester NY
Searched 6 sites
Here’s a table of upcoming Halloween events in Rochester, NY, for 2024, including names, dates, times, and venues. The events are based on real data collected from various sources.
Event Name | Date | Time | Venue |
---|---|---|---|
HalloweenFest | October 4-26 | Various times | Lincoln Hill Farms |
Pumpkins in the Park | October 26 | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM | Yellow Jacket Racing |
Seneca Park Zoo: Spooktacular | October 17-19 | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM | Seneca Park Zoo |
The Enchanted Forest | October 19 | 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM | RMSC Cumming Nature Center |
Trick-or-Treating in the Historic Village | October 26-27 | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM | Genesee Country Village & Museum |
Halloween at the Market | October 27 | 4:30 PM – 7:30 PM | Rochester Public Market |
Dinner and Ghost Stories | October 6, 13, 20, 27 | 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM | Union Tavern |
Haunted Stroll | October 27 | 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM | Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion |
Family Fun Day: Trick & Treats | October 27 | 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM | Rochester Museum & Science Center |
Halloween Family Brunch Cruise | October 27 | 11:00 AM | Colonial Belle |
Dinner & Ghost Stories at Union Tavern | Various dates | 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM | Union Tavern Sea Breeze |
Toddler Trick-or-Treat | October 31 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM | The Strong Museum of Play |
Halloween Masquerade | October 31 | 8:30 PM | The Club at Water Street |
Halloween Silent Disco | October 19-20 | 8:00 PM | Montage Music Hall |
Haunted Houses | Various dates | Various times | Multiple Locations |
Pumpkin Carving Competition | October 12 | 1:00 PM | Railroad Street |
BB DANG HALLOWEEN @ Roch Beer Park | October 26 | 7:00 PM | Rochester Beer Park |
Spooky Speakeasy Trivia Night | October 17 | 6:30 PM | ARTISANworks |
Monster Mash Silent Disco | October 25 | 9:00 PM | ARTISANworks |
Family Fun Day at the Museum | October 27 | 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM | Rochester Museum & Science Center |
Halloween Cookie Decorating Class | October 23 | 6:30 PM | Rising Storm Brewing Company |
Howl-o-ween | October 27 | 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM | Country Park |
Halloween Activities in Rochester, NY
As Halloween approaches, Rochester, NY, becomes a festive hub filled with activities that embrace the spirit of the season. From haunted houses to pumpkin patches.
There are plenty of ways for residents and visitors to celebrate. Here’s a look at some of the best Halloween activities to enjoy in Rochester this year.
1. Ghost Tours
Explore the haunted history of Rochester with guided ghost tours that visit some of the city’s most notorious haunted locations.
These tours provide fascinating insights into the local folklore while delivering a few spine-tingling moments. Perfect for history buffs and thrill-seekers alike, ghost tours offer a unique perspective on Rochester’s past.
2. Pumpkin Picking
Visit local pumpkin patches where you can pick your own pumpkins, navigate corn mazes, and enjoy hayrides.
Many farms also host additional activities like petting zoos and fall festivals, making it a fun outing for families. Picking the perfect pumpkin is a Halloween tradition that adds to the festive spirit of the season.
3. Haunted Houses
For those seeking thrills, Rochester boasts several haunted houses that promise to deliver scares and excitement. Each haunted attraction features elaborate setups and professional actors to create a truly immersive experience.
These haunted houses are ideal for anyone looking to enjoy a heart-pounding night of fright.
4. Halloween Festivals
Join the community at Halloween festivals that feature a mix of games, food vendors, and live entertainment. Many festivals include costume contests and family-friendly.
Activities that engage children and adults alike. Celebrating Halloween in a festival setting creates a lively atmosphere perfect for connecting with others.
5. Costume Parties
Rochester is home to numerous Halloween costume parties at local bars, community centers, and theaters. These parties often feature music, contests, and themed drinks.
Allowing attendees to enjoy a festive night out. Dressing up in costumes adds to the excitement of the evening and enhances the celebratory mood.
6. Trunk or Treat Events
Participate in trunk or treat events hosted by local organizations and churches, where kids can safely collect candy from decorated car trunks.
These events are a great alternative to traditional trick-or-treating and foster a sense of community. Families can enjoy a fun and safe Halloween experience while getting to know their neighbors.
Best Halloween Spots to Visit in Rochester, NY
Rochester, NY, offers a variety of vibrant and engaging spots to celebrate Halloween, each providing unique activities and festive fun. Here’s a guide to the best places to visit during the Halloween season in Rochester, why you should go, and some special tips to enhance your experience.
1. Seneca Park Zoo: Spooktacular
- What to Do: Enjoy the zoo transformed with Halloween decor, special animal enrichment, and trick-or-treating opportunities.
- Why Visit: It’s a fun way to see animals while engaging in safe, Halloween-themed activities suitable for the whole family.
- Special Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and bring a flashlight if attending evening events for a more magical experience.
2. The Strong Museum of Play
- What to Do: Participate in the Toddler Trick-or-Treat event or explore the museum’s interactive exhibits, which are dressed up for Halloween.
- Why Visit: The museum provides a playful and educational environment where children can learn and celebrate the holiday in a stimulating setting.
- Special Tip: Check the museum’s event schedule for special Halloween shows and activities to plan your visit during less crowded times.
3. Rochester Public Market
- What to Do: Attend the ‘Halloween at the Market’ event, featuring a costume parade, pumpkin decorating, and live entertainment.
- Why Visit: It’s a great opportunity to enjoy festive food, shop from local vendors, and participate in community-centered Halloween fun.
- Special Tip: Arrive early to secure a good parking spot and bring reusable bags for treats and shopping.
4. RMSC Cumming Nature Center
- What to Do: Explore ‘The Enchanted Forest,’ a nighttime walk through beautifully illuminated trails with themed displays.
- Why Visit: This event combines nature with the mystique of Halloween, perfect for families and anyone who enjoys the outdoors.
- Special Tip: Dress warmly in layers and bring a camera to capture the illuminated scenery and creative displays.
5. Genesee Country Village & Museum
- What to Do: Trick-or-treating in the historic village offers a unique twist with 19th-century themed costumes and decorations.
- Why Visit: This is a chance to experience history hands-on while enjoying the festive Halloween spirit in an educational context.
- Special Tip: Purchase tickets in advance online to avoid long lines and ensure entry into popular events like haunted walks and storytelling.
Conclusion
Halloween in Rochester, NY, is a vibrant celebration filled with exciting activities, events, and attractions for all ages.
From the enchanting Spooktacular at Seneca Park Zoo to the playful experiences at The Strong Museum of Play, there’s no shortage of ways to immerse yourself in the Halloween spirit.
Families can enjoy community festivals, haunted houses, and interactive experiences that make this holiday special.
FAQs
Key events include the HalloweenFest at Lincoln Hill Farms, Seneca Park Zoo’s Spooktacular, and various community festivals and activities.
Halloween is celebrated on October 31st each year, with numerous events happening throughout October leading up to the holiday.
Yes! Events like the Toddler Trick-or-Treat at The Strong Museum and the Trick-or-Treating in the Historic Village are specifically designed for families.
Costumes are encouraged! Whether you choose something spooky or fun, dressing up adds to the excitement of the holiday.
Check local event listings, community boards, and social media platforms for the most up-to-date information on Halloween happenings.
Popular spots include Seneca Park Zoo and the Rochester Public Market, which host numerous exciting events during the Halloween season.
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