Planning your spooky adventure in East Orange? We've got everything you need to know. Uncover East Orange's spine-chilling secrets with our guide, perfect for local phantoms and visiting specters.
Popular events this Halloween season include the Brighton Asylum, where immersive horror experiences come to life in a hauntingly crafted setting. The 13th Hour offers intense thrills with its unique escape room challenges that will test your bravery. And don't forget Oktoberfest at Historic Smithville Village, which combines festive celebrations with a touch of seasonal magic. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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Top Halloween Events In and Around East Orange
- Brighton Asylum (Passaic)
- Oktoberfest at Historic Smithville Village (Galloway)
- 13th Hour (Wharton)
- New York City Halloween Weekend Bar Crawl (New York City)
- Scare Farm at Norz Hill Farm (Hillsborough)
- Annual Fall Fun Weekends at Mountain Creek Resort (Vernon)
- Fall Family Fun Weekends at Terhune Orchards (Princeton, NJ)
- SpookyFest 2024 This Ain't Your Grandma's Halloween Gala!!
- Haunted Red Mill (Clinton)
- South Orange Downtown Fall Festival at Spiotta Park (South Orange)
See these and even more events listed below!
East Orange Area Haunted Experiences
13th Hour
What to Expect:
Experience three haunted houses with special effects and live actors, along with nine immersive escape rooms and a unique hatchet-throwing activity in a glow-in-the-dark setting.
Description:
13th Hour Haunted House and Escape Rooms in Wharton, New Jersey, offers a thrilling experience with three haunted house attractions featuring special effects and movie-quality sets. Additionally, it features nine award-winning 60-minute escape rooms and the Haunted Hatchets attraction, where visitors can throw hatchets in a glow-in-the-dark setting. The event is open year-round, with live actors added to the escape rooms after 6 PM starting from September 13th.
Where: Wharton | More Info: 13th Hour
Scare Farm at Norz Hill Farm
What to Expect:
The unique feature of Scare Farm is its continuous attraction of three horror-filled experiences—Creepy Hollow, Paranoia Walking Trails, and The Slayride haunted hayride—all available for one price.
Description:
Scare Farm at Norz Hill Farm offers three horror-filled attractions: Creepy Hollow, Paranoia Walking Trails, and The Slayride haunted hayride. This year's event promises to be one of the scariest haunted houses in New Jersey, with a focus on immersive and terrifying experiences. The event is weather-dependent, and safety is a top priority.
Where: Hillsborough | More Info: Scare Farm at Norz Hill Farm
Haunted Red Mill
What to Expect:
An immersive Halloween experience featuring live actors, special effects, and a slow hayride through allegedly haunted trails and buildings.
Description:
Experience the thrill of Haunted Red Mill, a 34-year annual tradition in Clinton, New Jersey. This year's theme, "UFO: Unidentified Frightening Objects," promises an immersive and terrifying journey through mazes, trails, and a slow hayride along the river. Visitors will encounter live actors, special effects, and intense scares in the allegedly most haunted building in Clinton, with over 200 years of haunted history.
Where: Clinton | More Info: Haunted Red Mill
Terror At Trailside
What to Expect:
A 40-minute outdoor haunted trail with 30 unique scenes and intense special effects.
Description:
Experience a 40-minute outdoor haunted trail filled with intense audio, lighting, and special effects. The Trail of Terror features 30 different scenes, including crawl spaces, rope bridges, and a vortex tunnel. This unique and thrilling attraction has been a Halloween favorite for 30 years, benefiting local charities and offering a physically demanding yet unforgettable experience.
Where: Morris Township | More Info: Terror At Trailside
Bane Haunted House
What to Expect:
An immersive, interactive haunted house experience with over 100 live actors and a 40,000 square foot building.
Description:
Bane Haunted House in New York City offers an immersive and terrifying experience with over 100 live actors and a 40,000 square foot building. Visitors can expect to climb, jump, crawl, and spin through a spine-chilling, interactive environment that plays on various fears. This year, Bane is even more interactive with a brand new entrance and a terrifying exit. The attraction is known for its intense scares and has been named "The Scariest Haunted House" by The Star-Ledger for five years in a row.
Where: Livingston | More Info: Bane Haunted House
Bates Motel & Haunted Hayride
What to Expect:
An electrifying blend of high-tech special effects and immersive storytelling in three terrifying attractions.
Description:
Bates Motel & Haunted Hayride is a renowned haunted attraction located in Glen Mills, PA. It features three terrifying experiences: the high-action Bates Motel, the #1 Haunted Hayride in America, and the Revenge of the Scarecrows Haunted Corn Trail. These attractions offer an electrifying blend of high-tech special effects, digital soundtracks, and professional makeup, ensuring an immersive and spine-chilling experience for visitors.
Where: Glen Mills | More Info: Bates Motel & Haunted Hayride
Brighton Asylum
What to Expect:
Immersive haunted house experience with terrifying live actors and Hollywood-quality special effects.
Description:
Brighton Asylum is New Jersey's legendary haunted asylum complex, reopened after shutting down in 1952. It features terrifying live actors, horror movie-style scares, and Hollywood-quality special effects. The attraction includes the infamous "Bleeding Grounds" and offers immersive experiences that uncover the dark secrets within.
Where: Passaic | More Info: Brighton Asylum
NIGHT OF TERROR at Creamy Acres Farm
What to Expect:
Unique blend of haunted hayride, walk-through attractions, and interactive paintball experience.
Description:
NIGHT OF TERROR at Creamy Acres Farm is New Jersey's largest and scariest haunted attraction, featuring a haunted hayride, walk-through attractions like The Harvest and Dark Dreams, and a unique Haunted Paintball Hayride. The event offers a variety of terrifying experiences, including animatronics, pyrotechnics, and live actors, making it a must-visit for thrill-seekers.
Where: Mullica Hill | More Info: NIGHT OF TERROR at Creamy Acres Farm
Sleepy Hollow Haunted Acres
What to Expect:
Experience three terrifying haunted attractions, including a haunted hayride and an abandoned village, with live music and bonfires.
Description:
Sleepy Hollow Haunted Acres offers a thrilling Halloween experience with three terrifying attractions. Ride the SLEEPY HOLLOW HAYRIDE through dark woods and fields, explore the old Malfate Manor, and venture through the abandoned village of THE FIELD. Enjoy bonfires with live music and refreshments available, all while respecting the family-friendly policy of no alcohol.
Where: Newtown | More Info: Sleepy Hollow Haunted Acres
Lehigh Valley Scream Park
What to Expect:
Immersive and interactive haunted house experiences with multiple themed attractions.
Description:
Lehigh Valley Scream Park is a Halloween haunted attraction located in Orefield, Pennsylvania, offering four terrifying attractions, including a haunted hayride, corn maze, Bio-Purge zombie zone, and the Condemned haunted house. The event features a variety of themed scenes and interactive elements, ensuring a thrilling experience for visitors.
Where: Orefield | More Info: Lehigh Valley Scream Park
Family-Friendly Fall Activities Near East Orange
Oktoberfest at Historic Smithville Village
What to Expect:
A vibrant celebration featuring over 150 juried crafters, an international food court, and numerous family-friendly activities.
Description:
Historic Smithville's Oktoberfest is a festive celebration of autumnal food, beer, and music. The event features over 150 juried crafters, an international food court, kids' activities like face painting and a giant jumping house, and non-profit organizations. Visitors can enjoy train and carousel rides, paddle boats, and explore the village's 50 shops and seven eateries. This family-friendly event is a great way to welcome the fall season with fun and excitement for all ages.
Where: Galloway | More Info: Oktoberfest at Historic Smithville Village
Annual Fall Fun Weekends at Mountain Creek Resort
What to Expect:
A variety of fall-themed activities and live music performances.
Description:
Join us at Mountain Creek Resort for a festive fall celebration filled with music, food, and fun activities. The First Annual Country Music Fest on September 28th and 29th will feature country music performances, mechanical bull rides, and more. The Annual Fall Festival from October 5th to November 3rd will offer a variety of fall-themed activities and events. Additionally, the Trick or Creek Jump Jam on October 26th and the Last Run Down on November 3rd will add to the excitement of the season.
Where: Vernon | More Info: Annual Fall Fun Weekends at Mountain Creek Resort
South Orange Downtown Fall Festival at Spiotta Park
What to Expect:
The unique feature of this event is its inclusive and interactive atmosphere with various activities and community engagement.
Description:
Join us for the South Orange Downtown Fall Festival on September 29th at Spiotta Park Enjoy a fun-filled afternoon with free activities including fall crafts, pumpkin decorating, glam braids, and games. Local businesses will be participating, and DJ Lou Smith will provide the music. The South Orange Public Library will also offer story times every 30 minutes. Savor delicious fall treats and explore the offerings from featured businesses like Little Brain Lab and Ampy Salon.
Where: South Orange | More Info: South Orange Downtown Fall Festival at Spiotta Park
Fall Family Fun Weekends at Terhune Orchards
What to Expect:
A comprehensive fall festival with a wide range of family-friendly activities and attractions.
Description:
Fall Family Fun Weekends at Terhune Orchards offer a delightful autumn experience with over 30 activities and attractions. Enjoy pick-your-own apples and pumpkins, pony rides, pedal tractors, and explore the Corn Stalk Maze and Hay Bale Maze. Visit the barnyard of farm animals, participate in pumpkin painting, and engage in various children’s games and activities. The event also features live music, a variety of food options, and wine tastings in the historic apple orchard.
Where: Princeton, NJ | More Info: Fall Family Fun Weekends at Terhune Orchards
Festival of Fine Craft
What to Expect:
A diverse collection of 125+ artists exhibiting and selling their unique handcrafted works of art.
Description:
The Festival of Fine Craft is a two-day event celebrating 25 years of artistic excellence. It features 125+ juried artists showcasing their handcrafted works, unique crafting demonstrations, hands-on family art activities, live music, and specialty foods. The event also includes a Beer & Wine Garden and the signature Glass Pumpkin Patch Fundraiser.
Where: Millville | More Info: Festival of Fine Craft
Bridgewater Family Fun Day and Touch-a-Truck
What to Expect:
A community event featuring over 25 vehicles to climb on and explore, rides, inflatables, and games.
Description:
The Bridgewater Family Fun Day and Touch-a-Truck event, hosted by the Shimon and Sara Birnbaum Jewish Community Center in partnership with Bridgewater Township and Bridgewater Commons, offers a fun-filled day for the community. The event features free admission, including over 25 vehicles to explore, rides, inflatables, games, and activities like arts and crafts. Additionally, attendees can meet Sir Henry, the Rutgers Scarlet Knight, and enjoy a special needs resource fair. The event aims to raise funds for scholarships for children, adults, and families in need.
Where: Bridgewater | More Info: Bridgewater Family Fun Day and Touch-a-Truck
Bullock Farms Corn Maze & Fall Activities
What to Expect:
A 4.5-acre corn maze with scenic views and a variety of family-friendly activities.
Description:
Explore Bullock Farms' 4.5-acre corn maze, created on the side of a hill, offering a challenging and fun adventure. Climb the platform for scenic views of the 100-acre farm. Enjoy a 25-minute hayride through picturesque fields, pick-your-own pumpkins, and visit the barnyard with various animals. Kids can play in a corn crib and straw bale maze.
Where: Cream Ridge, NJ | More Info: Bullock Farms Corn Maze & Fall Activities
The Mccann Farm Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch
What to Expect:
The unique feature of The Mccann Farm Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch is its variety of activities that cater to both children and adults, making it an ideal destination for a fun-filled fall day.
Description:
The Mccann Farm Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch offers a fun-filled day with activities like picking your own pumpkin, wagon rides, visiting the pumpkin patch, navigating through the corn maze, and interacting with farm animals. This family-friendly event is perfect for enjoying the fall season with loved ones.
Where: Monroeville, NJ | More Info: The Mccann Farm Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch
South Orange Downtown Farmers Market
What to Expect:
The weekly gathering of local farmers and vendors offering a diverse array of fresh produce and artisanal goods.
Description:
The South Orange Downtown Farmers Market is a weekly event that brings together farmers, food vendors, and artisan vendors. It offers a variety of fresh produce, including fruits and vegetables, eggs, nuts, meats, pickles, olives, jam, homemade ice cream, apple cider, and soul food. The market is held every Wednesday from June 5th to October 30th in the Sloan Street Parking Lot, rain or shine.
Where: South Orange, NJ | More Info: South Orange Downtown Farmers Market
Spooktacular/Trunk or Treat
What to Expect:
A Halloween celebration in a zoo setting with trick-or-treating, stilt walkers, and Spooky Storytime sessions.
Description:
Experience a spooky yet family-friendly Halloween celebration at Turtle Back Zoo. Enjoy trick-or-treating at candy stations, watch stilt walkers and shows, and explore the zoo's attractions like the Touch Tank and Reptile House. This year, add a special touch with Spooky Storytime sessions where you can enjoy a not-too-scary story and take home a creepy craft.
Where: East Orange, NJ | More Info: Spooktacular/Trunk or Treat
Witch-Craft
What to Expect:
The event's unique feature is its use of knotted tapestries to memorialize individual women and comment on the ways we try to exert control over our world and lives.
Description:
The Witchcraft Series by Anne Jackson at the Thelma Hulbert Gallery explores the history of witch trials and their cultural significance, both as metaphors for our fears and representations of social injustice towards women. The exhibition features knotted tapestries that vividly depict the trials of specific historic witches from the West Country, using historical texts, original illustrations, and contemporary scientific and cultural references.
Where: Jackson | More Info: Witch-Craft
Company Town Walking Tour at Roebling Museum
What to Expect:
The unique feature of this event is its exploration of the lives and stories of workers in a historic company town, offering a unique perspective on industrial history and community life.
Description:
Join us for a guided walking tour of the historic company town at Roebling Museum. Discover the stories of workers who lived in unique houses, from immigrant laborers to wealthy superintendents. Learn about the contributions of the Roebling family and their role in building America's most famous bridges. This tour offers a fascinating glimpse into 20th-century working-class life and industrial innovation.
Where: Roebling | More Info: Company Town Walking Tour at Roebling Museum
Halloween Food, Drink, and Parties Near East Orange
New York City Halloween Weekend Bar Crawl
What to Expect:
A night of eerie excitement with free entry into over 4 venues and generously low drink specials.
Description:
Get ready to haunt the hottest bars in NYC this Halloween weekend Join us for a spooktacular Halloween Bar Crawl on October 19, 2024, at Coyote Ugly New York. Enjoy free entry into over 4 venues, generously low drink specials, and a chance to win a $2,000 prize value social media costume contest. This is the Halloween event you've been waiting for, so gather your ghouls and witches and snag your tickets now for a thrilling evening you'll never forget.
Where: New York City | More Info: New York City Halloween Weekend Bar Crawl
Other Halloween Activities Near East Orange
SpookyFest 2024 This Ain't Your Grandma's Halloween Gala!!
What to Expect:
A spirited evening filled with music, dancing, and a costume contest with amazing prizes to support teen mental health initiatives.
Description:
SpookyFest 2024 is a lively Halloween gala hosted by Hunter's World at Salumeria Ercolano in Jersey City, NJ. The event features food, wine, beer, costume contests, hair-raising entertainment, and games, all while supporting a great cause by funding programs that empower teen mentors to make a positive impact on their peers.