Haunted History of NJ Halloween Kickoff
Haunted history lecture presented by New Jersey historian Greg Caggiano.
27 unique & unusual Halloween events in Linden and nearby.
Linden residents seeking Halloween festivities can find events across the region. For major parades, consider New York's Village Halloween Parade or Brooklyn's Park Slope Children's Halloween Parade. Those looking for indoor family entertainment might explore options at the Liberty Science Center in Jersey City.
An 80th annual week-long community Halloween celebration with a street fair.
Adults-only haunted walking tour through Greenwich Village pubs.
Immersive music and arts festival co-created by House of Yes and ZERO.
An '80s slasher Halloween drag spectacular hosted by Violet Chachki.
See all the unique and unusual Halloween events in one place.
An ofrenda is an altar honoring deceased loved ones, layered with photos, marigolds, candles, food, and personal objects that welcome spirits home. Community events often display many, some public and celebratory, some deeply personal. Look closely and read the dedications, but never touch, move, or take items, and ask before photographing. Some events invite visitors to add a name or flower; join if moved.
Harvest festivals center the season, produce, craft vendors, music, hayrides, with little or no spook factor, making them ideal for mixed ages and anyone opting out of scary content. Halloween festivals add costumes, themed entertainment, and sometimes evening scare elements. Read the listing's imagery and schedule to tell them apart, and check whether a family festival flips spookier after dark.
Come as a guest, not a spectator: it's a celebration honoring deceased loved ones, not spooky-adjacent entertainment. Participate where invited, processions, community ofrendas, craft tables, ask before photographing people or altars, and buy from the vendors and artists who anchor the event. Learn the basics beforehand, marigolds, ofrendas, calaveras, and skip Halloween costumes; this holiday stands on its own.