See all Des Moines Halloween happenings this year!
Des Moines kicks off Halloween 2025 near the State Capitol and East Village with spooky adventures and haunted happenings across the historic district. Local favorites include spooky attractions, fall harvest celebrations, Halloween nightlife, haunted walks, pumpkin events, and family-friendly festivals.
Find the best Des Moines Halloween happenings this year!
Top Halloween In and Around Des Moines
- Night Eyes at Blank Park Zoo
- Linn's Haunted House
- The Slaughterhouse Haunted Attraction
- Spooky Science
- Day of the Dead Drag Brunch
- The Official Halloween Bar Crawl
- Halloween on the Hill
- Trick or Treat Around the Lake (Pleasant Hill)
- Trick or Trees
- Night Eyes
See even MORE Halloween events below!
Des Moines Halloween
Des Moines Family-Friendly Fall Activities
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Celebrate Halloween with a unique blend of spooky and science at the Science Center of Iowa. This family-friendly event features thrilling experiments, fascinating creatures, and a festive atmosphere. Costumes are encouraged, making it a perfect outing for all ages to enjoy a safe and educational Halloween experience.
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Bring the family for a spooktacular evening of Halloween fun at Copper Creek Lake Park. Local businesses line the lake, offering treats and goodies for kids. Come in costume and enjoy the crisp fall air while supporting community businesses.
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Celebrate the spooky side of plants at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden's Trick or Trees event. This family-friendly Halloween weekend celebration features festive entertainment, educational activities, and seasonal treats. Bring your costumes and explore the garden for a day of fun.
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Step into a world of wonder at Night Eyes, where life-sized animatronic dinosaurs and enchanting light displays transform the zoo. This family-friendly event features a 'merry-not-scary' treat safari, a fun zone with carnival games, and captivating live entertainment. It's a unique Halloween tradition that supports wildlife conservation.
Des Moines Haunted Experiences
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Step into a world of enchantment at Blank Park Zoo's Night Eyes event. Roam through dazzling light displays and encounter over 15 life-sized animatronic dinosaurs. Enjoy a 'merry-not-scary' treat safari, free carnival games, and live entertainment. It's a unique family tradition perfect for a spooky, fun-filled evening.
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Prepare for the 'Scariest Night Ever' at Linn's Haunted House, a legendary attraction in Des Moines. Since 1984, they've delivered spine-chilling scares with suspense and startles, avoiding gore for a unique, classic horror experience. Crawl through pitch-black tunnels, navigate terrifying scenes, and brave the infamous laser hallway in this massive indoor haunt.
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Dare to enter The Slaughterhouse, celebrating its 13th year of fear with 'The Year of Crimson.' This haunted attraction plunges visitors into the twisted legacy of the Biggs family, where Crimson Biggs, the masked reaper, unleashes new terrors. Explore blood-soaked corridors, a fog-charged maze, and the dark history of Dead Moines' underground lair. It's a descent into pure horror where courage is tested.
Des Moines Halloween Food, Drink, and Parties
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Get ready for a spectacular Day of the Dead Drag Brunch! This vibrant event combines a delicious buffet with a dazzling drag show. Indulge in a variety of brunch favorites and enjoy the electrifying performances. Don't miss the chance to customize your own Bloody Mary or opt for unlimited Mimosas. It's a celebration of performance, food, and fun!
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Get ready for a spooktacular two-day Halloween Bar Crawl in Des Moines! This event spans Friday and Saturday, offering a thrilling experience with eerie cocktails, costume contests, and non-stop fun across multiple venues. Your ticket includes 2-3 drinks or shots, waived cover charges, and access to an awesome after-party. Grab your friends, don your best costume, and prepare for an unforgettable Halloween weekend!
Des Moines Other Halloween Activities
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Experience the magic of Halloween on the Hill, where the historic Sherman Hill neighborhood transforms into a spooky spectacle. Wander through streets adorned with creative, resident-made decorations, from pirate ships to iconic horror characters. This family-friendly event is free to attend and supports a vital cause, collecting donations for the DMARC Food Pantry Network.
Halloween Near Des Moines
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