When Halloween hits, the top destination in Texas turns up the spook factor like nowhere else! This state is famous for its larger-than-life Halloween celebrations that draw in crowds who crave a mix of legends and wild festivities.
Why?
Texas is steeped in ghostly history, from the Alamo’s haunted whispers to the chilling tales of the Marfa Lights. For locals, Halloween isn’t just a day; it’s a weeks-long party that blends Southern hospitality with a hint of the supernatural.
Expect to see trick-or-treaters decked out in cowboy hats paired with devil horns or boots with bat wings.
And the food? Think pumpkin tamales and spicy ‘witches’ brew’ chili that’ll warm your soul.
The season kicks off in early October and rolls through to Dia de los Muertos in November, with about 800,000 tourists flocking in annually to get their scare on.
For Texans, Halloween is a mix of tradition, culture, and a darn good time! If you think you can handle those Boo-tiful Festivities, keep reading!
1) Enjoy the Spook in the Capital city, Austin
Halloween in Austin is a spooktacular experience packed with thrilling events. Start your October festivities at the Halloween Trail of Lights at Zilker Park.
The park transforms into a glowing wonderland with light displays, haunted houses, and ghostly fun for all ages.
It’s a must-see destination in Texas for families and those looking to get in the festive spirit!
Next, head to The 6th Street Halloween Bash—Austin’s famed nightlife district goes all out with costume contests, live music, and a vibrant parade of ghoulishly dressed revelers.
It’s the place to see and be seen in your most creative costume.
For a more eerie experience, check out the House of Torment. This haunted house is known for its bone-chilling scares and immersive horror scenes that will make you jump out of your skin.
It’s a perfect destination to visit in Hawaii for thrill-seekers and horror fans!
Lastly, don’t miss the Mighty Texas Dog Walk, where dogs in their Halloween best strut their stuff in this heartwarming and whimsical event. It’s a great way to enjoy the festive spirit and support local charities.
Austin’s Halloween scene is all about fun, fright, and fantastic memories!
2) Go on Ghostly Adventures of San Antonio
If you’re visiting the snowy gem of Texas which is San Antonio during the haunted season, here’s a quick guide to four spine-tingling events you won’t want to miss.
First up, the Aloha Haunted Lagoon at Antonio Bay. This eerie boat ride takes you through dark waters, where you’ll encounter ghostly apparitions, cursed spirits, and the haunting legend of the Night Marchers.
If you’re brave enough, you’ll love the thrill of the unknown around every corner.
Next, head to the Spooktacular Luau, where the traditional Hawaiian luau gets a spooky twist.
Dance with the spirits, enjoy eerie fire dances and savor a feast fit for the undead. The night culminates in a terrifying tale told by the island’s best storytellers.
For the daring highlight in Hawaii for Halloween, the Antonio Haunted Plantation offers a walk through a real haunted sugar plantation.
This experience isn’t for the faint of heart, as the spirits of the past come alive to tell their tragic stories.
Finally, the Keiki Halloween Parade is perfect for families. Kids can dress up, collect candy, and march through the town center, where festive decorations add a dash of spooky cheer to the island’s aloha spirit.
Halloween in Antonio is a bewitching blend of island culture and spine-chilling fun—don’t miss out!
3) Houston, Haunts in the Heart of H-Town
Houston is a top lakey place in Texas where the Halloween scene is buzzing with excitement and variety. Start your spooky adventures at the Houston Zoo’s Zoo Boo.
The zoo is transformed with festive decorations, special themed events, and a family-friendly atmosphere perfect for young goblins and their parents.
For a frightful thrill, check out Phobia Haunted Houses. It is a top spot in Texas for Halloween, known for its heart-pounding scares and elaborate haunted experiences.
If you’re up for some wild fun, visit Downtown Houston’s Halloween Pub Crawl. This event takes over several bars and clubs, offering costume contests, drink specials, and a lively party atmosphere that stretches across the city’s vibrant nightlife.
Finally, the Houston Heights Boo Bash is a hit with families. It features a parade, live entertainment, and a variety of kid-friendly activities, making it a perfect spot for a community Halloween celebration.
With these spooky festivities, Houston is an iconic site fof Halloween that offers a thrilling blend of scares and fun for all ages this Halloween season!
4) Enjoy Big D’s, Dallas Haunted Delights
Dallas’ exciting adventures transform into a spooky wonderland every October that offers a thrilling array of Halloween events for visitors and locals.
Start your adventure at the Dallas Arboretum’s “Dallas Blooms“, where the garden is decked out in ghoulish glory with over 90,000 pumpkins.
For a spine-chilling experience, head to the Reindeer Manor in nearby Red Oak. This haunted house boasts multiple terrifying sightseeing location in Texas, from haunted trails to spine-tingling mazes.
Be prepared for a frightful night!
If you’re in the mood for something less scary but equally festive, check out the Deep Ellum Halloween Parade. This vibrant event features a lively procession of costumed revelers, street performers, and live music, all amidst the backdrop of Dallas’ eclectic Deep Ellum neighborhood.
Lastly, the Trick or Treat Street at Klyde Warren Park is perfect for families. Enjoy safe trick-or-treating, festive games, and a pumpkin patch, all while soaking up the park’s lively atmosphere.
Dallas knows how to celebrate Halloween with a blend of scares and smiles, making it a must-visit for the season!
5) Saddle Up for Scares in Fort Worth
Fort Worth, also the romantic escape for couples, knows how to turn the Halloween spirit with an array of exciting events and activities.
Kick off your spooky adventure at the Fort Worth Zoo’s Boo at the Zoo. This family-friendly event features trick-or-treat stations, a haunted maze, and themed animal encounters.
For a more spine-chilling experience, head to the Haunted House at the Fort Worth Stockyards. Set in the historic Stockyards district, this haunted house promises a thrilling scare with its settings and ghostly surprises.
More activities to enjoy in Texas for Halloween is the Sundance Square’s Halloween Parade. This vibrant parade showcases elaborate costumes, lively floats, and festive music, making it a delightful event for all ages.
Lastly, the Pumpkin Patch at Fort Worth Botanic Garden offers a charming, less spooky experience. Wander through rows of pumpkins, participate in fun crafts, and enjoy seasonal activities in a beautiful garden setting.
Halloween is an excellent opportunity to enjoy Fort Worth’s weather and lively downtown atmosphere!
6) Ghoulish Fun by the Sea in Galveston
Galveston is an excellent romantic place to be for a Halloween full of coastal charm and spooky excitement.
Start with the Galveston Historic Downtown Ghost Tour. This guided tour takes you through the city’s historic streets, sharing tales and ghostly legends that bring the past to life in a spine-chilling way.
For a festive, family-friendly experience, check out Galveston’s Island’s Haunted Mansion. This attraction is decked out with spooky decor and offers a haunted house experience that’s just the right mix of scary and fun for all ages.
Don’t miss the Annual Halloween Bash at Moody Gardens. This event features a variety of must do activities in Texas for Halloween, including a haunted house, pumpkin decorating, and themed attractions throughout the gardens.
It’s a great way to enjoy Halloween with a touch of nature.
Finally, the Trick-or-Treat Trail at the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier is perfect for families. This event offers trick-or-treating along the pier, carnival rides, and games, all set against the backdrop of the Gulf of Mexico.
With these events, Galveston blends Halloween thrills with coastal beauty for a memorable celebration.
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7) Experience Desert Frights in El Paso
El Paso brings Halloween to life with a mix of events and festive fun at famous venues of Texas.
Begin with the El Paso Zoo’s “ZOOscary event. This family-friendly celebration features trick-or-treating, themed animal encounters, and spooky decorations throughout the zoo.
It’s a great way to enjoy the Halloween season while exploring wildlife.
For a more intense fright, head to The Haunted House at the El Paso County Coliseum. This iconic site in Texas for Halloween is known for its elaborate setups and terrifying scares.
The Spooky Science Halloween at the El Paso Museum of Science is perfect for families looking for educational fun. This event combines Halloween with science exhibits, hands-on activities, and interactive displays that are both spooky and educational.
Finally, don’t miss the Dia de los Muertos Festival at San Jacinto Plaza. Although not strictly Halloween, this vibrant celebration blends traditional Mexican Day of the Dead customs with Halloween festivities, featuring colorful altars, music, and dance.
El Paso’s Halloween events offer a blend of fright, family fun, and cultural richness, making for an exciting and diverse experience.
8) Get Chills on the Coast in Corpus Christi
Apart from romantic things for couples, Corpus Christi offers a delightful mix of Halloween activities that can make many generations excited.
Start your spooky season at the Haunted House at the Texas State Aquarium. The annual event transforms the aquarium into a haunted adventure, featuring spooky sea creatures and decorations for a uniquely aquatic Halloween experience in Texas.
For family-friendly fun, check out the Pumpkin Patch at Heritage Park. This festive event features a wide array of pumpkins, hayrides, and fun crafts for kids.
The Corpus Christi Parks & Recreation’s Halloween Festival is another highlight, offering a range of activities from trick-or-treating to costume contests and live entertainment. It’s a great opportunity to experience the local community spirit.
Finally, the Haunted Trail at the South Texas Botanical Gardens promises a spine-tingling experience with its haunted trail filled with ghoulish surprises and spooky scenery set among the beautiful gardens.
Corpus Christi’s Halloween events combine coastal charm with spooky fun, making it a fantastic destination for a seasonal getaway.
9) Go Wicked in Waco Halloween
Waco is another highlight of Texas that has many exciting Halloween events to keep its visitors occupied throughout October.
Start with the Cameron Park Zoo’s Zoo Boo. This annual event transforms the zoo into a Halloween wonderland with trick-or-treating stations, themed animal encounters, and fun activities that are perfect for the whole family.
For a more thrilling experience, visit The Haunted House at the Waco Convention Center. This famous in Texas is known for its elaborate and spooky setups and offers a night of scares and excitement for those seeking a good fright.
The Waco Cultural Arts Fest also gets into the Halloween spirit with its Fright Fest. This festival features live music, arts and crafts, and Halloween-themed entertainment, making it a great way to enjoy the season with local flair.
Finally, the Fall Family Fun Fest, at Waco Brazos Park East offers a blend of fall activities, including a pumpkin patch, hayrides, and a variety of kid-friendly games and attractions.
Waco’s Halloween lineup provides a mix of spooky thrills and family fun, perfect for celebrating the season in this vibrant Texas city.
10) Enjoy Ghostly German Traditions in New Braunfels
Halloween in New Braunfels is a thrilling experience, perfect for those who enjoy a frightfully good time.
Start your spooky adventure at the Gruene Hall for their annual Halloween Bash. This historic dance hall transforms into a haunted haven, where live music and ghoulish costumes blend for a night of eerie entertainment.
Next, head over to the Comal County Fairgrounds for the Scarecrow Festival. As you wander through the creepy collection of handmade scarecrows, keep an eye out for the occasional one that seems to move on its own.
The festival also features haunted hayrides that promise spine-chilling moments.
For a family-friendly scare, the New Braunfels Haunted House offers a spine-tingling walk through meticulously designed scenes that will send shivers down your spine. Don’t miss their special interactive shows that elevate the scare factor.
Finally, if you’re in the mood for something uniquely Texan, check out Historic Main Street’s **Ghost Tours**. These walking tours dive into local legends and ghost stories that make New Braunfels’ past come alive in the most frightening way.
Enjoy your Halloween with the Texas hotspot– if you dare!
11) Benefit from Suburban Scares in Plano
Halloween in Plano is a spooky delight for visitors looking for festive frights. Begin your escapade at the Plano Balloon Festival’s Halloween Extravaganza.
It is held at the Oak Point Park & Nature Preserve and features a spectacular display of glowing hot air balloons, while ghoulish decorations and live performances add a thrilling touch to the night.
Next, head over to the Downtown Plano Arts District for their Spooky Street Festival. With its family-friendly atmosphere, this event boasts costume contests, a haunted house, and live entertainment.
Don’t miss the trick-or-treating along the historic streets, where local businesses hand out goodies and creepy surprises.
For a true scare, visit the Plano Haunted House at the Collin Creek Mall. This haunted attraction offers a chilling walkthrough experience designed to terrify even the bravest souls.
Wrap up your haunted holiday at the Heritage Farmstead Museum’s Harvest Festival. The museum’s grounds are transformed into a Halloween wonderland with a pumpkin patch, hayrides, and ghost stories, providing a festive and slightly eerie end to your spooky adventures.
Enjoy Plano’s Halloween – if you dare to embrace the fright!
12) Book your day at Haunted Halls of Denton
Halloween in Denton is a spine-tingling celebration with something for everyone. Begin your haunting journey at The Denton Haunt. This terrifying attraction features elaborate sets and chilling actors that guarantee a night of fear and excitement.
Next, visit Denton’s Historic Courthouse-on-the-Square for the Haunted Courthouse Tour. This event combines local history with ghostly tales and supernatural lore. The courthouse itself is rumored to be haunted, making the tour all the more thrilling.
For a more family-friendly experience, head to Denton’s Fall Festival at The Denton Civic Center. The festival features pumpkin carving contests, face painting, and a costume parade for kids, all set against a backdrop of festive autumn decorations and spooky fun.
Finally, don’t miss the Denton Downtown Halloween Block Party. Held along the lively streets of downtown Denton, this event offers live music, costume contests, and street performances.
The vibrant atmosphere, combined with a touch of Halloween magic, makes it a perfect ending to your Denton Halloween adventure. Enjoy the thrills and chills!
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13) Spend Time in the Hill Country of Fredericksburg
Fredericksburg’s exciting spots turn Halloween into a charming eerie that is packed with seasonal fun. Start your spooky tour at the Fredericksburg Haunted Tour, which takes you on a candlelit journey through the town’s most haunted spots.
Learn about local ghost stories and historical legends that make Fredericksburg a true ghostly destination.
Next, visit the Fredericksburg Trade Days for their special Halloween Market. Here, you’ll find a spooky selection of crafts, vintage finds, and Halloween-themed goodies.
For family-friendly fright, check out the Rockbox Theater’s Halloween Show. The theater offers a delightful mix of music and spooky fun in a performance that’s sure to entertain all ages.
Finally, the Fredericksburg Pioneer Museum hosts their Haunted Pioneer Village event. Explore the historical village at night, where costumed actors bring the past to life with ghostly reenactments and spine-chilling stories.
It’s a historical twist on traditional Halloween fun that you won’t want to miss. Enjoy your Fredericksburg Halloween adventure!
14) Get scared with the Thrills and Chills in Arlington
Arlington is a top highlight in Texas that transforms into a Halloween hotspot with a mix of spooky and festive events.
Start your haunted journey at the Six Flags Over Texas Fright Fest. The theme park becomes a realm of thrills and chills with haunted houses, scare zones, and eerie live entertainment.
Next, visit The Arlington Museum of Art for their Halloween Art Show. This unique event blends creativity with the macabre, showcasing spooky-themed art installations and interactive exhibits that are perfect for a night of cultural chills.
For a family-friendly option, check out the Arlington Parks and Recreation’s Halloween Bash at Veterans Park.
The event features a safe and fun environment with costume contests, a pumpkin patch, and plenty of trick-or-treating opportunities. It’s perfect for kids and families to enjoy a festive Halloween without the frights.
Head to The Arlington Public Library for their Spooky Storytime. This special event invites kids to enjoy Halloween-themed stories and crafts in a cozy, non-scary setting.
Arlington in Texas is a great way to end your Halloween exploration on a light-hearted note. Enjoy the festive thrills!
15) Round Up the Frights in Round Rock
Halloween in Round Rock is full of spooktacular fun and family-friendly events.
Begin your haunting adventure at Old Settlers Park for the Round Rock Express Halloween Bash. This event features a fun, spooky atmosphere with trick-or-treating, a costume contest, and games, all set in the ballpark’s festive environment.
Next, check out the Round Rock Premium Outlets for their Halloween at the Outlets event. The shopping center transforms with spooky decorations and hosts a kid-friendly trick-or-treating event throughout the stores.
It’s a great way to enjoy some Halloween shopping while gathering treats.
For a spine-tingling experience, visit the Round Rock Haunted House. Known for its elaborate sets and terrifying actors, this haunted attraction promises to deliver a thrilling scare to those who dare to enter.
Take a trip to The Round Rock Library for their Halloween Storytime and Craft. This event offers a cozy, creative atmosphere where children can listen to spooky stories and make Halloween-themed crafts.
What’s say, ready to enjoy a frightfully good time in Round Rock?
16) Frights in the Valley of McAllen
Halloween in McAllen is a blend of festive fun and spine-tingling thrills.
Start your spooky escapade at the McAllen Haunted House, an annual favorite that features elaborate, scary scenes and interactive experiences designed to give you a good scare.
Next, head to the McAllen Public Library for their Halloween Celebration. This family-friendly event includes storytime with spooky tales, crafts, and a costume contest for kids.
For a unique twist on Halloween fun, visit the McAllen Art Museum for their Art & Frights event. This special event features art exhibits with a Halloween theme, along with live performances and interactive activities that mix creativity with the macabre.
Finally, check out The McAllen Convention Center for their Halloween Monster Mash. This event offers live music, food vendors, and a costume contest in a festive atmosphere that’s perfect for enjoying Halloween with friends and family.
Embrace the spooky spirit and have a frightfully good time in McAllen!
17) Halloween Haunts in Hub City of Lubbock
Lubbock offers a variety of spooky and fun Halloween events to enjoy.
Start your adventure at The Haunt at the National Ranching Heritage Center. This haunted house is set on the grounds of a historical ranch and features chilling scenes and thrilling scares that make it a must-visit for horror enthusiasts.
Head to Lubbock’s Science Spectrum for their Spooktacular Science Night. This event combines Halloween fun with educational activities, including creepy science experiments, a planetarium show with a spooky twist, and hands-on crafts.
For a more family-oriented experience, check out the Lubbock Public Library’s Halloween Carnival. This event offers a variety of activities for children, including a costume contest, crafts, and trick-or-treating, all in a safe and festive environment.
Don’t miss the Lubbock Parks and Recreation’s Halloween Fest at Mackenzie Park. With a pumpkin patch, hayrides, and a haunted trail, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a traditional Halloween celebration with lots of family-friendly fun.
Enjoy the spooky season in Lubbock!
18) Ghosts of Georgetown Await
Georgetown, Texas, embraces Halloween with a mix of eerie and festive events.
Start your spooky journey at The Haunted Walk of Georgetown. This guided tour takes you through some of the town’s most haunted spots while sharing local ghost stories and legends, perfect for those who enjoy a good ghost story with their scares.
Next, head to San Gabriel Park for the Georgetown Pumpkin Fest. This family-friendly event features a pumpkin patch, a costume contest, and plenty of fall-themed activities.
It’s a great way to enjoy a traditional Halloween celebration with kids and loved ones.
For a bit more fright, visit The Georgetown Library for their **Spooky Storytime and Craft**. This event is perfect for younger children, offering a cozy environment with Halloween-themed stories and crafts that are sure to delight little ghouls and goblins.
Check out The Georgetown Square’s Trick-or-Treat event. The historic square transforms into a Halloween wonderland with local businesses handing out candy, live entertainment, and festive decorations.
It’s a charming and lively way to celebrate Halloween in the heart of Georgetown. Enjoy your Halloween adventures at Georgetown!
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Best Hotels To Stay In Texas During Halloween
- The Driskill, Austin
- The Joule, Dallas
- Hotel Valencia, San Antonio
- Mansion on Turtle Creek, Dallas
- The Fairmount, Fort Worth
- The Westin Riverwalk, San Antonio
Conclusion
So, when Halloween rolls around, Texas becomes a hotspot for those looking to experience a mix of history, mystery, and pure, unadulterated fun.
The state’s rich folklore and traditions create an atmosphere where Halloween isn’t just celebrated—it’s lived.
From quirky costumes with a Southern twist to mouthwatering local treats, Texas knows how to throw a Halloween bash that’s both unique and unforgettable.
With hundreds of thousands of visitors joining in the spooky festivities each year, Halloween in Texas is more than just a holiday—it’s a cultural phenomenon that keeps the spirit of the season alive in a way only Texas can.