Ames's witching hour is upon us! Explore our guide to all things Halloween. Whether you're here for your hundredth haunt or your first fright, our guide will lead you to Ames's Halloween highlights.
Popular events abound this spooky season, starting with Sleepy Hollow Haunted Scream Park, where thrill-seekers can navigate through chilling haunted trails and eerie attractions. For those looking for a more interactive scare, Scream Acres features its unique blend of terrifying scenes and immersive experiences. And the enchanting Spirits in the Gardens offers a whimsical twist on Halloween fun with beautifully decorated pathways and creative displays. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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Top Halloween Events In and Around Ames
- Spirits in the Gardens
- Sleepy Hollow Haunted Scream Park (Des Moines)
- Boos & Brews 5k Fun Run (Clive)
- Scream Acres (Atkins)
- Circle of Ash (Central City)
- Witches Walk 2024
- Trick or Trees (Des Moines)
- Fall Festival & Candy Crawl (Grimes)
- Cyclone Cinema Halloween Movies
- Cyclone Cinema: Talk to Me
See these and even more events listed below!
Ames Area Haunted Experiences
Sleepy Hollow Haunted Scream Park
What to Expect:
Immersive and diverse haunted attractions with theatrical smoke and strobe lights.
Description:
Sleepy Hollow Haunted Scream Park is Iowa's largest and most elaborate Halloween theme park, offering 10+ haunted attractions for one low price. Visitors can explore the Castle of Blood, experience the intense Chaos attraction, and wander through the Village of the Damned. The park also features the Zombie Bunny Food Court and various other themed areas, ensuring a memorable and terrifying experience.
Where: Des Moines | More Info: Sleepy Hollow Haunted Scream Park
Scream Acres
What to Expect:
Immersive haunted attractions with original storylines and professional makeup artists.
Description:
Scream Acres in Atkins, Iowa, offers a haunting experience with four incredible haunts: 3D Sinister Silo, Cell Block Z, The Slaughterhouse, and Haunted Cornfield. Trained actors and talented makeup artists create an unforgettable night that brings your nightmares to life. The event also features live music, scare entertainment, and a Glass Alley Beer Garden for guests 21 and older.
Where: Atkins | More Info: Scream Acres
Circle of Ash
What to Expect:
Experience three terrifying haunted attractions, including a traditional indoor haunted house, a funhouse maze, and a haunted forest.
Description:
Circle of Ash Haunted Attraction in Central City, Iowa, offers a terrifying experience with three haunted attractions: a traditional indoor haunted house, a walkthrough funhouse maze filled with terrorizing clowns, and a haunted forest brimming with monsters. The event features general admission, fast pass, and VIP passes, including access to a themed VIP lounge and concessions.
Where: Central City | More Info: Circle of Ash
Family-Friendly Fall Activities Near Ames
Boos & Brews 5k Fun Run
What to Expect:
A fun-filled day of running and celebrating with craft beer and spooky vibes.
Description:
Join us for a fun-filled day of running, beer, and spooky vibes at 515 Brewing Company. Lace up your running shoes for a 5k-ish course that starts and ends at this awesome taproom in Clive. Whether you're a seasoned runner or just looking for a fun way to stay active, this event is perfect for all. Enjoy scenic routes, celebrate with a locally-made craft beverage, and participate in festivities like live music and games.
Where: Clive | More Info: Boos & Brews 5k Fun Run
Fall Festival & Candy Crawl
What to Expect:
A festive celebration with a variety of activities and treats for all ages, including the Candy Crawl.
Description:
The Fall Festival & Candy Crawl is a fun-filled event happening on October 12, 2024, at the South Sports Complex in Grimes, Iowa. The festival will feature a variety of activities for all ages, including the Candy Crawl, food trucks, local vendors, games, and bouncy houses. Costumes are highly encouraged, making it a delightful experience for both kids and adults.
Where: Grimes | More Info: Fall Festival & Candy Crawl
Trick or Trees
What to Expect:
A festive Halloween celebration with educational activities and interactive trick-or-treating stations in a beautiful botanical garden setting.
Description:
Trick or Trees at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden is a family-friendly event that kicks off Halloween weekend. Enjoy educational activities, entertainment, and trick-or-treating amidst the beautiful gardens. The event features various interactive stations, including Spooky Science, Community Partner Education Treating Tables, face painting, and magic shows. Costumes are encouraged, making it an ideal event for families with children of all ages.
Where: Des Moines | More Info: Trick or Trees
Spirits in the Gardens
What to Expect:
A Halloween celebration featuring over 1,000 intricately carved pumpkins and various family-friendly activities.
Description:
Spirits in the Gardens is a beloved Halloween event in Ames, Iowa, featuring over 1,000 intricately carved pumpkins that light up the night. The event offers a magical experience for all ages, including trick-or-treating on Saturdays and Sundays, a cash bar on Friday nights, and various activities like chemistry experiments and cosplay. This community-driven event showcases the spirit of Halloween and is made possible by the dedication of more than 900 volunteers.
Where: Ames | More Info: Spirits in the Gardens
Other Halloween Activities Near Ames
Witches Walk 2024
What to Expect:
A festive Halloween celebration with participating businesses offering special deals and activities.
Description:
Witches Walk 2024 is a spooky yet festive event in downtown Ames, Iowa. On October 10, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, downtown businesses will be open late, offering snacks and sips. The event is geared towards adults but welcomes all, encouraging costumes. Participating businesses will have special deals and activities, including themed cocktails, seasonal snacks, and a costume contest. This event promises a fun and memorable experience for everyone involved.