10 Spooky Activities To Enjoy In Dc This Halloween!

things to do on halloween in dc

The spooky season is upon us and there's no better place to celebrate than in the nation's capital. Washington D.C. has a long history of eerie happenings, making it the perfect destination for anyone seeking a thrill. Whether you're a local or a tourist seeking a scare, we've compiled a list of 10 spine-tingling activities to enjoy in D.C. this Halloween. From haunted house tours to ghost sightings, get ready for a hauntingly good time as we explore the spookier side of the nation's capital.

Activities Description
Boo at the Zoo Trick-or-treat at the National Zoo
The Glow Halloween-themed light show at Lake Fairfax Park
Halloween Haunt at Kings Dominion Spooky-themed amusement park
Midnight Monsters Cruise Nighttime boat cruise with live music and costumes
Markoff's Haunted Forest Walking tour through a haunted forest
Field of Screams Maryland Multiple haunted attractions on a farm
Escape Room Live Halloween-themed escape rooms
Nightmare on M Street Bar crawl and costume contest in downtown DC
Capitol Hill Ghost Tour Walking tour of haunted sites on Capitol Hill
Washington National Cathedral Tour Ghost tour of the historic cathedral

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Ghost Tours of Washington DC

Ghost
Source: www.georgetowndc.com

Halloween is almost here and if you're looking for something spooky to do in Washington DC, then look no further. The Ghost Tours of Washington DC are the perfect way to spend the night of October 31st. This guided tour will take you on a journey through the streets of DC, where you'll learn about the city's spookiest legends and haunted locations.

The Ghost Tours of Washington DC is a walking tour that covers approximately 1.5 miles and lasts around 90 minutes. You'll be guided by an experienced storyteller who will take you to some of the most haunted locations in the city. You'll hear ghostly tales of presidents, politicians, and ordinary citizens who have been seen wandering the streets long after they passed away.

The tour will take you to the White House, Lafayette Square, and the Blair House, which all have a reputation for being haunted. You'll learn about the famous ghosts of these locations, such as Abigail Adams, who's been spotted near the East Room of the White House, and Dolley Madison, who's said to haunt the Rose Garden.

The tour also includes stops at some other sites, such as the Octagon House, which has a tragic history and is believed to have a ghost, and the National Theater, where it said that the ghost of John F. Kennedy still appears.

The tour guides are excellent at storytelling and they have a wealth of knowledge about the haunted history of DC. They'll keep you entertained throughout the tour without making the experience too scary. Although, watching your back wouldn't hurt as there might be a ghost lurking.

Overall, the Ghost Tours of Washington DC is an excellent way to experience Halloween in the city. You'll learn about the ghosts and legends of the nation's capital, you'll get to walk through historic neighborhoods and downtown streets on foot, and you'll even get an excellent view of the city at night. So, make sure to dress warmly and wear comfortable shoes, and prepare yourself for a spooky night out in DC this Halloween.

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Boo at the Zoo

Boo
Source: nationalzoo.si.edu

Halloween is just around the corner, and every year, people in the Washington D.C. area look forward to the many events that occur in the city during this spooky holiday season. One highly anticipated Halloween event in D.C. is Boo at the Zoo, which takes place at the National Zoo.

As you arrive at the zoo, you’re immediately greeted with a festive atmosphere. The entire park is decorated with Halloween decorations, and many of the zoo’s animals have their own Halloween-themed decorations too! The event features a wide range of activities and attractions that cater to all ages.

One of the highlights of Boo at the Zoo is the “Glow Zone”, an area filled with black lights and glow-in-the-dark decorations. Kids can draw on the walls with UV-sensitive markers, creating their own spooky designs. There are also several performances throughout the night, including magic shows, costume contests, and a dance party for kids.

Trick-or-treating is another must-do activity at Boo at the Zoo. Kids can explore different areas of the zoo and collect candy from various stations set up throughout the event. In addition to candy, there are also healthy treats available at some of the different stations.

There are a number of additional attractions at Boo at the Zoo including inflatable slides, wall climbing, and face painting. With so many fun activities to explore, it's no wonder that Boo at the Zoo has become one of the most popular Halloween events in the Washington D.C. area.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a family-friendly Halloween event in D.C., Boo at the Zoo is definitely worth checking out. With a variety of fun activities and attractions, this event is sure to keep both kids and adults entertained for hours. Be sure to grab your tickets early as this popular event can sell out fast!

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Fright Fest at Six Flags America

Fright
Source: coasternation.com

With Halloween just around the corner, haunted houses, spooky attractions, and thrilling experiences are in full swing in the Washington DC area. One such event that is not to be missed is the Fright Fest at Six Flags America.

Known for its exhilarating roller coasters and family-friendly atmosphere, Six Flags America transforms into a bone-chilling event every weekend in October. With unique haunted attractions, Halloween-themed shows, and thrill rides that take on an eerie twist, Fright Fest is a must for thrill-seekers and horror lovers alike.

From the moment you step inside the park, you’ll be transported to a mysterious and spine-tingling world of fog, jack-o-lanterns, and creepy creatures. Take a stroll through the "City Under Siege," a scare zone filled with terrifying clowns and horrific circus performers, or wander through the "Skull Island" scare zone, where you'll encounter marauding pirates and undead creatures.

For those brave enough to enter the haunted houses, there are five chilling attractions to choose from. Will you try your luck in the "Voodoo Curse," where you'll walk through the streets of New Orleans, dodging hexes and spells? Or perhaps you'll enter the "Terror Twister," where you'll face horrifying monsters around every corner on this interactive dark ride.

If you prefer something less intense, head to one of the family-friendly shows such as the “Looney Tunes Spooky Town” where Bugs Bunny and his friends are dressed up for Halloween in a fun, musical show or enjoy the laser show “The Awakening” with synchronized music and special effects.

And if you're looking for some real thrills, don't miss out on the park's signature coasters, which are transformed into monster-infested rides after dark. Embark on the "Mind Eraser," "Roar," "Superman: Ride of Steel," and other rides, which take riders on a wild journey of fear and excitement.

Fright Fest events in Six Flags America are included in the price of admission, making it an affordable and unbeatable Halloween attraction. Make sure you come in your Halloween costume, as there will be a costume contest for kids' every Saturday and for adults on October 30th. There are concessions throughout the park, but for a spooky dining experience, try the “Witch’s Brew Beer and Food Festival.”

This year's Fright Fest at Six Flags America is a Halloween destination that is not to be missed. Whether you're a seasoned thrill-seeker or a family looking for some fun, there's something for everyone at this creepy and festive attraction.

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Escape the Room DC: Pumpkin Spice Panic

Escape
Source: www.kidfriendlydc.com

If you're looking for a unique way to celebrate Halloween in DC, why not try Escape the Room DC's Pumpkin Spice Panic? This immersive escape room experience is perfect for those who love puzzles and want to get into the spooky spirit.

In Pumpkin Spice Panic, you and your team are locked in a room and given one hour to solve a series of puzzles and riddles. The room is decked out in Halloween decor, complete with creepy jack-o'-lanterns and spooky sound effects.

The story behind the escape room is that a pumpkin spice latte has gone missing and it's up to you to find out who took it. Along the way, you'll encounter clues and challenges that will test your problem-solving skills.

But it's not just about finding the latte. As you unravel the mystery, you'll discover that there's something much more sinister at play. Can you escape before it's too late?

Escape the Room DC's Pumpkin Spice Panic is perfect for groups of friends or coworkers who want to do something different for Halloween. It's also a great way to bond and work together to solve a problem.

If you're looking for even more Halloween fun in DC, there are plenty of other activities to check out. The National Zoo hosts a Boo at the Zoo event with after-hours animal exhibits and Halloween-themed activities. The Smithsonian American Art Museum also has a Boo Bash with art-making stations, a dance party, and more.

No matter how you choose to celebrate Halloween in DC, make sure to have fun and stay safe!

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Markoff's Haunted Forest

Markoffs
Source: www.washingtonian.com

Looking for a truly terrifying experience this Halloween season? If you find yourself in the Washington D.C. area, there's only one place you should be heading to: Markoffs Haunted Forest.

Located just 30 miles outside of the city in Dickerson, Maryland, Markoffs Haunted Forest has become a Halloween tradition for locals and visitors alike. Now in their 27th year, this haunted attraction is a must-visit for thrill-seekers looking for the ultimate scare.

So, what can you expect from Markoffs Haunted Forest? Well, for starters, this is not your average haunted house. This outdoor attraction spans more than 30 acres of dark, dense forest, with dozens of haunted scenes and scares lurking around every corner.

From creepy clowns to flesh-eating zombies, Markoffs Haunted Forest is not for the faint of heart. There are countless jump-scares, animatronics, and live actors just waiting to make you scream. You'll have to navigate through pitch-black forests, creaky bridges, and winding trails full of danger at every turn.

But the terror doesn't end there. Markoffs Haunted Forest also offers additional attractions like the Trail of Terror, where you'll come face-to-face with a zombie hoard, and the Paintball Apocalypse, where you can shoot at zombies as they try to attack you in a post-apocalyptic wasteland.

If you're looking for a truly unique and terrifying Halloween experience, head to Markoffs Haunted Forest this season. Just be sure to bring your bravest friends and a change of pants, because you're going to need them.

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Halloween at the National Harbor

Halloween
Source: enjoyingfamilylife.com

As the winds of fall begin to blow, and the trees start trading their greens for vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and red, it only means one thing- Halloween is upon us. And, what better way to spend this holiday than with family and friends at the National Harbor in Washington, DC.

The National Harbor is an amazing waterfront destination in DC that comes alive on Halloween with plenty of fun activities and events for both kids and adults. From pumpkin patch activities to live music events, the National Harbor has something to offer everyone. Here are some activities that you cannot afford to miss:

Pumpkin Picking and Painting

Nothing screams Halloween louder than pumpkins, and at the National Harbor, you and your family can have the best pumpkin picking and painting pastime. This activity is perfect for kids as they will have a chance to choose their own pumpkin, carve it, paint it, and take it home. The National Harbor also has plenty of Halloween decorations and activities that will help you get into the festive mood.

Halloween Costume Contest

Dressing up for Halloween is always fun, and at the National Harbor, there is a Halloween costume contest for kids and adults where you can showcase your best costumes. The contest usually comes with different categories such as the scariest, the funniest, and the most creative costume. You can come up with your own costume idea, or you can rent one from the vendors available at the National Harbor.

Live Music Events

If you love music, you will not be left out at the National Harbor during Halloween. The area is known for its live music events, and on Halloween, local musicians and bands come out to play. You will also get a chance to enjoy some of the best Halloween hits that will make you dance and sing the night away.

Trick or Treating

Finally, what is Halloween without trick or treating? At the National Harbor, kids get to go door to door in the harbor to collect candy from different vendors. Besides, there are plenty of other activities such as face painting, bouncy houses, and other games that will keep the kids entertained.

In conclusion, if you are looking for the perfect place to celebrate Halloween in DC, the National Harbor is an excellent choice. With plenty of fun activities and events, you and your family will have all the Halloween fun that you can handle. So, make sure to add the National Harbor to your list of things to do on Halloween in DC this year.

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Dare to Scare Haunted House

Dare
Source: dc.curbed.com

Halloween is a fantastic time to get spooky and indulge in some ghoulish events. In Washington DC, there are several ways to celebrate the holiday. One of the most popular things to do on Halloween in DC is to visit the Dare to Scare Haunted House.

Located in the heart of the city, the Dare to Scare Haunted House is a haunted attraction that promises to send shivers down your spine. With pulse-pounding scares and bone-chilling thrills, this haunted house is not for the faint of heart. It's a must-visit for those who love horror movies and seek a real-life horror experience.

The Dare to Scare Haunted House offers visitors more than just jump scares. The haunted attraction is an immersive experience that features breathtaking special effects, incredible animatronics, and movie-quality makeup. The attraction is designed to take you on a journey through your worst nightmares, with terrifying scenes that explore everything from haunted houses to twisted circus themes.

When you enter the Dare to Scare Haunted House, be prepared to meet creepy clowns, zombie monsters, and other creatures lurking in the shadows. You'll have to navigate through dark corridors and claustrophobic rooms that challenge your bravery. The attraction has several scenes that force you to face your fears, including a haunted dollhouse and an infested laboratory.

One of the best things about the Dare to Scare Haunted House is that the staff is dedicated to making your experience as realistic as possible. The actors are committed to their roles and are highly trained to provide a terrifying experience. You'll feel like you're genuinely in a horror movie.

If you're looking for an unforgettable Halloween experience in DC, then the Dare to Scare Haunted House is a must-visit. The attraction is open during the Halloween season, and tickets can be purchased online. The haunted house is popular, so it's best to book your tickets in advance. Remember, admission is only for those over 13 years old, and this is not an attraction for the faint-hearted.

In conclusion, if you want a spooky and thrilling Halloween experience in DC, Dare to Scare Haunted House is one of the best places to visit. The attraction promises a heart-stopping experience, filled with unforgettable scares and horrors that will leave you trembling in fear. So why wait? Grab your friends, family or partner, and head out into the darkness to experience an incredible evening that will stay with you for a lifetime.

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Night of the Living Zoo

Night
Source: nationalzoo.si.edu

Halloween is a time to dress up and get spooky – and Washington, D.C. is the perfect place to do it. From haunted tours to costume parties, there's something for everyone in the nation's capital. One event not to miss is the Night of the Living Zoo, a Halloween party held each year at the National Zoo.

The Night of the Living Zoo is an adults-only event that takes place on the last Friday in October. The party runs from 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m., and attendees are encouraged to dress up in their best Halloween costumes. The event is a fundraiser for the National Zoo and its animal conservation efforts, so tickets are sold at a premium price. However, the cost is well worth it for the unique experience of partying among the zoo's animal exhibits.

During the Night of the Living Zoo, guests can expect to see some of the zoo's famous animals, such as giant pandas and African elephants. They can also enjoy a wide variety of Halloween-themed activities, including live music, face painting, and fortune telling. There are also food trucks and themed bars scattered throughout the zoo, so attendees can enjoy a bite or a drink while getting into the spooky spirit.

One of the highlights of the Night of the Living Zoo is the costume contest. Attendees can show off their Halloween outfits and compete for prizes, with categories ranging from scariest to funniest. The costume contest is always a hit, and guests can expect to see some truly impressive costumes on display.

Overall, the Night of the Living Zoo is a must-attend event for Halloween lovers in Washington, D.C. Whether you're looking to party with animals or just looking for a unique Halloween experience, this event is sure to deliver. So dress up, grab your tickets, and head to the National Zoo for a Halloween celebration you'll never forget.

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Brightest Young Things: Nightmare on E Street

Brightest
Source: bloody-disgusting.com

Halloween is fast approaching and if you're in the Washington DC area, there are plenty of events to keep you entertained throughout the spooky season. One of the most exciting events to look forward to is the Brightest Young Things: Nightmare on E Street, happening on October 26, 2019.

The Brightest Young Things is a multimedia platform for all things events, art, music, and nightlife in the DC area. They have been bringing unique and engaging events to the city for over a decade. This year, they are hosting their iconic Halloween extravaganza, Nightmare on E Street in celebration of their 12th anniversary.

Get ready for a Halloween experience like no other. The event will be held at Echostage, one of the largest concert venues in the DC area, measuring over 30,000 square feet. The space is going to be transformed into a creepy and magical wonderland, complete with multiple themed rooms and experiences. You can expect everything from a haunted house to a silent disco to keep you entertained throughout the night. There will be plenty of Halloween-inspired drinks and food to go around, along with performances by some of the hottest local and international DJs.

Halloween is all about dressing up and expressing yourself, and Nightmare on E Street is no exception. The dress code for the event is costume mandatory, so make sure you come dressed to impress. Whether you want to go as your favorite horror movie character, a magical creature, or even a pun, the sky's the limit. Just make sure you stay within the theme of the event, which is a scary yet fun-filled night out.

Tickets for the event are currently on sale and range from $30 to $80 depending on when you purchase them. There's also a VIP option that includes early entrance, a private bar, and exclusive access to certain areas of the event. Make sure you get your tickets early as they tend to sell out fast.

The Brightest Young Things: Nightmare on E Street is the perfect event to get into the Halloween spirit and experience something truly unique. Whether you're looking to party all night long, explore different themed rooms, or just enjoy some spooky food and drinks, there's something for everyone at this event. Don't miss out on this unforgettable night and get your tickets now!

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Trick or Treat at Mount Vernon Estate

Trick
Source: www.mountvernon.org

Halloween is just around the corner and the city of Washington D.C. is gearing up for some spooky fun! If you're wondering what to do in D.C. on Halloween, we've got a great recommendation for you: Trick or Treat at Mount Vernon Estate.

Mount Vernon Estate is the historic home of George Washington, located just outside of D.C. in Alexandria, Virginia. On Halloween night, the estate offers a special Trick or Treat event for kids and families. The event runs from 3:30-6:30 PM, so it's a great way to kick off your Halloween festivities.

The estate's Mansion Circle will be transformed into a Halloween wonderland, with games, activities, and of course, candy! Kids can participate in a costume parade, play games like pumpkin bowling, and even meet some spooky characters like Salem the witch and Frankenstein's monster. Of course, there will be plenty of candy for trick-or-treaters of all ages!

In addition to the Trick or Treat event, Mount Vernon also offers some other spooky experiences throughout the Halloween season. From October 21-31, you can take a special Candlelight Tour of the Mansion and see the home of the country's first president in a different light. The tour includes spooky stories and legends about the estate's past and a chance to see the Mansion lit up by candlelight.

If you're looking for something a little more family-friendly, Mount Vernon also offers a special Pumpkin Decorating Workshop on October 24. Kids can pick out their own pumpkins and use art supplies to decorate them in their own unique way. It's a great way to get into the Halloween spirit without getting scared!

Overall, Trick or Treat at Mount Vernon Estate is a great way to spend Halloween in the D.C. area. You'll have a chance to explore one of the country's most historic homes, meet some spooky characters, and best of all, get lots of candy! If you're interested in attending, be sure to get your tickets early, as they tend to sell out quickly. Happy Halloween!

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Frequently asked questions

There are a variety of spooky events in DC, such as the "Night of the Living Zoo" at the National Zoo, "Fright Fest" at Six Flags America, and "Boo at the Zoo" at the Maryland Zoo.

Yes! There are several haunted houses in the DC area, including "Field of Screams" in Olney, MD, "Madhaunter's Madhouse" in Washington, DC, and "Laurel's House of Horror" in Laurel, MD.

Yes, many neighborhoods in DC participate in trick-or-treating on Halloween night. Make sure to check your local neighborhood's guidelines and recommendations for safe trick-or-treating.

Many restaurants and bars offer Halloween-themed food and drink specials in DC. Check out places like The District Distilling Co.'s "Trick or Drink" event or the "Hocus Pocus" cocktail at The Royal restaurant.

It is important to follow local guidelines and regulations in regards to COVID-19 when participating in Halloween events. Many events may have extra precautions in place, such as mandatory mask-wearing and reduced crowd capacity. It may also be safer to participate in outdoor events rather than indoor gatherings.

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4 Comments

RA

Randy Leonard

If you're looking for a spooky experience on Halloween in DC, you have to visit the Ghost Tour of Old Town. It's a guided walking tour that takes you through the historic streets of Alexandria, Virginia, and shares chilling stories of paranormal activity. The guides are captivating storytellers and the atmosphere is eerie. It's definitely a unique way to celebrate Halloween and learn about the haunted history of the area.
Thank you for the recommendation! The Ghost Tour of Old Town sounds absolutely intriguing. I've always been fascinated by paranormal activity and the haunted history of areas. The fact that it's a guided walking tour through the historic streets of Alexandria, Virginia, makes it even more enticing. I can't wait to experience the eerie atmosphere and hear the captivating stories from the guides. It sounds like the perfect way to celebrate Halloween and learn about the haunted history of the area. I'll definitely make sure to add it to my list of things to do on Halloween in DC!
AA

Aadam Warner

I absolutely love spending Halloween in DC! There are so many fun activities to do. One of my favorites is attending the annual Boo at the Zoo event at the National Zoo. It's such a treat to see all the animals and get into the Halloween spirit at the same time. The zoo even has trick-or-treating for kids, which is so adorable. I highly recommend checking it out if you're in the area!
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Frank Diaz

For a more lighthearted Halloween activity in DC, I suggest visiting the Pumpkin Patch at Butler's Orchard. It's a perfect spot for families to pick out their pumpkins and enjoy a day on the farm. They have hayrides, corn mazes, and even a giant slides. It's a great way to get into the Halloween spirit and create lasting memories with loved ones. Plus, the farm is absolutely beautiful during the fall season with all the colorful foliage. Don't forget your camera!

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