ML Interest Tag: pumpkin-hunt

Scare Up Fun! 15 Halloween Happenings around Atlanta

by Shelley Massey

Get out and about in the city for Atlanta Halloween events that will surely create chills, thrills, and smiles for everyone in your family

Halloween is on the horizon, parents, and while we’re sure your kids are busy mapping out their trick-or-treat route around the city, we know you’re looking to take advantage of everything this season has to offer families. That’s why we’ve scoped out 15 Atlanta Halloween events you and your little goblins can enjoy before the big day. So after you’ve picked out your pumpkin, grab your costumes and head out to these frightfully fun events.

Grab your costumes for these Halloween parties

kids in costumes during a halloween event in Atlanta at the zoo watch an elephant
courtesy Zoo Atlanta

Boo at the Zoo
Guests will enjoy a fun family Halloween festival in Atlanta with treats throughout the zoo and more than 1,000 animals from around the world. Don’t forget your costume! This Halloween event is free for zoo members, children under 3, and with general admission timed tickets.

Dates: Oct. 22 & 23, 29 & 30
Event details

Scarecrows in the Garden at Atlanta Botanical Garden
Scarecrows in the Garden brings dozens of scarecrow creations by local artists, crafters, youth groups, and more. Entrants and visitors will delight in discovering their own personal favorites at this Halloween event in Atlanta.

Dates: Oct. 1-31, closed on Mon.
Event details

The Monster Mash, It’s a Puppetry Smash at The Center for Puppetry Arts
The Center for Puppetry Arts in Atlanta will present its third annual family Halloween event The Monster Mash, It’s a Puppetry Smash. Enjoy Trick-or-Treating at 12 stations set up throughout the Worlds of Puppetry Museum, jam to an outdoor Halloween Dance Party with DJ Willy Wow, have a meet and greet with walk-around puppeteers, and snap Insta-perfect photos at the Halloween-inspired backdrop stations. Tickets are limited.

Date: Sat., Oct. 29
Event details

a little girl in a bunny costume trick or treats at childrens museum atlanta during a halloween event in atlanta
courtesy Children's Museum of Atlanta

Halloween Programming at Children's Museum of Atlanta
It’s spooky season at CMA and they're celebrating with fang-tastic hands-on fun in Jane’s Innovation Station, and at the Science Bar, Art Studio, and CMA Stage. On-stage programs include a special storytime, Halloween dance parties, and spooky science, while drop-in activities will include vanishing ghosts, haunted houses, pumpkin bowling, skeleton puzzles, and more, depending on when you visit. 

Good to Know: Beyond these daily activities, families can bring the kids to the annual trick-or-treat event on Oct. 29 for some extra special fun.

Dates: Oct. 1-31, closed on Wed.
Event details

Train or Treat at Southeastern Railway Museum
The Southeastern Railway Museum near Atlanta will host its popular Train or Treat Halloween event featuring trick-or-treating at decorated stations, a costume contest for attendees 12 years and younger, live music, and visiting vendors from local businesses.

Date: Sat., Oct. 22
Event details

Candymania Maze & Movie
Join the City of Riverdale for a spooky maze through the Town Center (collecting candy!) and then stay for the party where you’ll find face painting, 360 spin, a Halloween-themed movie, more candy, and more.

Dates: Sat., Oct. 29
Event details

Related: Atlanta's 10 Best Trick-or-Treat Neighborhoods

See local “haunts” on a tour

Ghosts of Marietta
Meet the ghosts of Marietta as you tour the historic streets of this gem of the south with a past that is deep in tradition, history, and quality of life. As with any community harboring these traits, some residents choose to never leave.

Dates: Fri.-Sun., Sept. 30-Oct. 31
Event details

Decatur
In historic downtown Decatur and led by professional psychic medium and paranormal investigator, Boo Newell, this tour begins in the historic Town Square, traveling next down small streets where late at night you might just have an encounter with Decatur's spirit world.

Dates: Sat., Oct. 1-31
Event details

Lawrenceville
Learn about the night that the dead walked down the main street of Lawrenceville, hear about bizarre paranormal events that have happened recently in the businesses that line the square, and step inside the Old Jail and perhaps experience paranormal activity for yourself!

Dates: Fri. & Sat., Oct. 14-31
Event details

Related: Scared Silly! Not-Too-Spooky Halloween Thrills for Atlanta Kids

Enjoy the outdoors at these Halloween events you won’t want to miss

Pumpkins at Callaway
By day, explore 2,500 acres of family fun packed with pumpkins, sunflowers, and festive fall topiaries. Stay after sundown to watch the grounds come alive with illuminating experiences, including a towering Pumpkin Tree and an Enchanted Pumpkin Forest filled with glimmering, glowing garden critters.

Dates: Fri.-Sun., Sep. 30-Oct. 30
Event details

Take a Self-Guided Oakland Cemetery Tour
If you want to explore Oakland Cemetery on your own, purchase a digital version of the Self-Guided Tour Map that you can print at home or order a paper copy from the online museum store. This guide, priced at $5, has more than 55 marked stops, and enough Oakland Cemetery history to keep you engaged for hours! View the monuments at your own pace and enjoy a walk through the history of Oakland.

Woodland Spirits at Fernbank Museum of Natural History
Take a walk on the supernatural side with Fernbank’s annual Halloween exhibit. From ghostly figures peeking from the shadows to monstrously kooky sculptures, Halloween fans of all ages will find something to scream (in delight) about. Encounter a variety of “spirits,” a haunted outpost, monster garden and more throughout 10 acres of trees, trails and shadows in Fernbank's WildWoods.

Dates: Daily, through Nov. 6
Event details

Halloween Hikes at Chattahoochee Nature Center
Experience the mystery of a guided night hike. The 37th annual Halloween Hike takes you through the forest to meet woodland creatures and hear about how they live. Take part in world music, crafts, campfire, and other festival fun. It’s the perfect non-scary alternative to traditional Halloween events for kids.

Dates: Oct. 21 & 22, 28 & 29
Event details

Pumpkin Festival at Stone Mountain Park
Play by day as you enjoy family-friendly park attractions and special fall entertainment featuring some of your favorite classic storybook characters. Then, after the sun goes down, you'll glow by night in a whole new light with a nighttime parade and plenty of other not-so-spooky glowing experiences.

Dates: Sat. & Sun., through Oct. 31
Event details

Additional reporting by Dhyana Levey

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28 Spookily Fun Halloween Events in and Near NYC for Kids

by Yuliya Geikhman

From costume parties to pumpkin carving (and catapulting!), check out more than 20 Halloween events in NYC for family-friendly, spooky fun

Hey, boo! Explore New York City’s spooky side this October. Halloween is coming, which means that New York City is about to be filled with festive events where you and the kids (ahem, you and your little superheroes, witches, monsters, and princesses) can celebrate with gusto! And by celebrate, we of course mean with creepy stories, haunted houses, ghouls, and ghosts of all kinds. Join costume parades (or have your dog join one), make Halloween-themed crafts, learn about the traditions and animals that are associated with the holiday, carve some pumpkins, and so much more!

Or, if you’re looking for something a bit different, participate in some more unconventional Halloween activities, like spooky slime making and pumpkin flinging. Whatever you decide to attend, you can be sure that the kids will get a kick out of 2022’s spooky Halloween NYC family events! Pro tip: remember it’s a marathon, not a sprint, to All Hallow’s Eve!

Halloween Parades and Parties around NYC

Halloween Festival at Bleecker Playground
The Friends of Bleecker Playground are hosting a fundraising Halloween festival, raising money to benefit the community. Join a mini-parade perfect for the little ones, that starts at Abingdon Square at 10. The playground will be decked out with entertainment for the kids, including face painting, crafting, music, and more.

Cost: Free, but donations are appreciated
Sun., Oct. 23, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Bleeker Playground
Bleecker St. & W 11th St.
West Village
Online: bleeckerplayground.org

Halloween Extravaganza at Franz Sigel Park
Get tricks and treats at the annual Halloween Extravaganza. In addition to the usual Halloween fun—cool costumes, pet parade, and creepy crafts—this park party also has slime making, Tarot readings, and an interactive Story Walk from Emit Theatre.

Cost: Free
Sat., Oct. 29, 1-5 p.m.
Franz Sigel Park
East 158th St.
Concourse
Online: eventbrite.com

The Music of Halloween Spooktacular at Brooklyn Bowl
Have a rocking good time with the Rock and Roll Playhouse, where the sounds of classic rock meet Halloween classics. This family-friendly concert encourages kids to dance and sing along, and is a great first introduction to classic rock.

Cost: $15, free for those 1 year old and younger
Sun., Oct. 30, 12 p.m.
61 Wythe Ave.
Williamsburg
Online: brooklynbowl.com

Boo Bash at Randall’s Island
Pre-party on Randall’s Island for an extra chance to show off your cool costumes. Dress up and visit the island for the annual Boo Bash, which features themed crafts, games, treats, and more.

Cost: Free
Sun., Oct. 30, 12-3 p.m.
103rd Street Footbridge
Randall’s Island
Online: randallsisland.org

Halloween Harvest Festival at Socrates Sculpture Park
Heads up: This Halloween Harvest will send your pumpkin creation soaring to great heights… literally! Carve out an epic pumpkin then send it flying with the pumpkin catapult at the second annual “Flight of the Gourds.” It’s pumpkins galore, with pumpkin art workshops, a creative spin on costume creation, and face painting. Plus, bring your pooch in his best costume and join the dog costume contest—or just stand back and watch other people’s dapper doggos!

Cost: Free
Sat., Oct. 30, 12-5 p.m.
32-01 Vernon Boulevard
Long Island City
Online: socratessculpturepark.org

Halloween Costume Party at Westchester Square
Don your favorite costumes and head over to this costume party for a fun family bash. Kids ages 2-15 are invited to participate in games, win prizes, make arts and crafts, and more. There will be vendors on site for food, drinks, and, of course, dessert and candy.

Cost: $28.38 ages 2-15, $12.41 ages 15+
Sun., Oct. 30, 2-6 p.m.
1450 Commerce Ave.
Westchester Square
Online: eventbrite.com

Kids Costume Party at Dazzled Art
Join the Dazzled Utopia Art Studio for a pre-Halloween costume party. Kids will create art, dance, sing, chow down on pizza, and have the chance to win prizes. The party is open to kids ages 3-12 years old.

Cost: $30
Sun., Oct. 30, 3-5 p.m.
1261 Ralph Ave.
East Flatbush
Online: dazzledart.com

Dumboween at the Dumbo Archway
This charming Halloween mini-parade and party is, by its own admission, “sometimes spooky, always adorable.” March over to the Dumbo Archway and kick off with a children’s party, complete with a lively brass band, arts and crafts from the Creatively WILD Art Studio, a photobooth, and more. Enter costume competitions, go trick or treating among over 50 participating businesses in the area, and take spooktacular photos throughout the evening.

Cost: Free
Mon., Oct. 31, 4:30-7 p.m., march to the Archway begins at 4 p.m.
Dumbo Archway
155 Water St.
Dumbo
Online: dumbo.is

Related: NYC’s Best Neighborhoods for Trick-or-Treating

Monstrous Museums, Gardens, and Centers around NYC

Halloween Costume Dog Show at Williamsbridge Oval
Watch costumed pooches strut their stuff at the Pet Fashion Show at the Williamsbridge Oval Recreation Center. Bring the family pet, or just come and watch as dogs show off their costumes, participate in obstacle courses, and pose for furry photo-ops.

Cost: Free
Fri., Oct. 14, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
3225 Reservoir Oval East
West Bronx
Online: nycgovparks.org

Hands on History: Spooky Season at King Manor
This month’s Hands on History features a spooky twist. Learn about the author Washington Irving and his famous 1820 story, “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.” Make a craft to take home inspired by the scary story: Headless Horseman paper pumpkin masks!

Cost: Free
Sat., Oct. 15, 1-4 p.m.
150-03 Jamaica Ave.
Jamaica
Online: kingmanor.org

Monster Bash at the Children’s Museum of Manhattan
CMOM has a packed October, full of creepy and fun Halloween fun and activities. Here’s just a small sample:

  • Oct. 22 & 23: Ghouls Just Wanna Have Fun, according to MakerSpace! Create your very own monster using “junk” like socks, boxes, fabric, and other mixed media materials.
  • Oct. 25-28: Dress up with PlayWorks in the Monster Party Hats event, where kids can design hats and headbands, then wear them as they play and pretend.
  • Oct. 25-28: Make some fancy eyewear with Inside Art, at the Monster Vision Goggles workshop.

Every day has different events to explore! Plus, throughout the Monster Bash, kids can participate in scavenger hunts, listen to read-alongs of scary (but not too scary!) stories, play Halloween-themed party games, and much more.

Price: Free with admission
Tues., Oct. 18-Sun., Oct. 31
The Tisch Building
212 West 83rd St.
Upper West Side
Online: cmom.org

Hallowscream at Chelsea Recreation Center
This Halloween event is a scream—literally! The Chelsea Recreation Center has been spookified, turning it into a haunted house. Brave the “Fright Walk,” where scary special effects, frightening images, jump scares, spooky audio, and an eerie fog cover the path. Only bring your bravest family members for this one! Adults are urged to make sure their little ones are handling the frights fine, especially if they’re under 13 years old.

Cost: Free
Sat., Oct. 22, 1:30-6 p.m.
430 West 25th St.
Chelsea
Online: eventbrite.com

Living History: Cooking Spooky Treats at the NY Historical Society
Go back in time with historical interpreter Cheyney McKnight and make your own treats to enjoy this Halloween. Families will work together to create an edible cookie dough “sandpit” that hides yummy surprises. No baking required! Then, dig in while you listen to family-friendly scary stories.

Cost: Free with admission
Sun., Oct. 23, 1-3 p.m.
170 Central Park West at Richard Gilder Way (77th St.)
Upper West Side
Online: nyhistory.org

Haunted House at the Williamsbridge Oval
Oh no! The Williamsbridge Oval Recreation Center has been overtaken by ghouls, witches, ghosts, and other creepy critters that go bump in the night. Visit the space for a haunted house event that’s appropriate for all ages.

Cost: Free
Fri., Oct. 28, 7-9 p.m.
3225 Reservoir Oval East
West Bronx
Online: nycgovparks.org

Irish Halloween at the Irish Arts Center
Learn about Irish traditions and the annual Halloween / Oíche Shamhna festival through this interactive experience held by the Irish Arts Center. The Arts Center’s new building appears to be haunted! Kids (and their caretakers) are invited to dance, sing, and scare the ghosts away. Browse the spooky location and explore Ireland’s myths, legends, language, and history. This hour-long program is free but requires a timed entry ticket.

Cost: Free
Sun., Oct. 30, 12-1 p.m.
726 11th Ave.
Gramercy
Online: irishartscenter.org

Halloween at the Garden at Queens Botanical Garden
Wear your costume to the Queens Botanical Garden for an afternoon full of Halloween fun. Walk along the Trick-or-Treat Trail, make themed arts and crafts, learn about creepy crawlies that live in your compost pile,  listen to live music, and watch a magic show. Adults can enjoy harvest beers and ciders from the Beer & Wine Garden, and purchase food and refreshments for the family from local food vendors.

Cost: $7.39/adult, $3.18/child, free for those 3 years old and under
Sun., Oct. 30, 12-5 p.m.
43-50 Main St.
Flushing
Online: queensbotanical.org

Fall-O-Ween at the NY Botanical Garden
The New York Botanical Garden has a packed Fall events calendar, with tons of seasonal harvest- and Halloween-themed programs and special attractions:

  • Oct. 15 & 16: Join the Pumpkin Carving Face-off Weekend to design your own pumpkin or watch three pumpkin carving masters face off for the most intricate—and terrifying—creation.
  • Oct. 22 & 23: It’s the Pumpkin Parade Weekend! Wear your best costume and participate in a festiva parade in the garden. Kids can help decorate before the parade, then check out giant pumpkins, watch a pumpkin carving demonstration, and learn about how growers get their pumpkins to grow to such enormous sizes.
  • Oct. 22 & 29: Stay after hours for the Spooky Pumpkin Garden Nights, and explore the gardens by flashlight, meeting giant skeletons and spooky scarecrows along the way.

In addition to these events, throughout autumn the children’s garden will be decorated with cute and scary scarecrows, and pumpkins of all shapes and colors will be on display.

Cost, date, and time varies; events throughout October
2900 Southern Boulevard
The Bronx
Online: nybg.org

Spooky Crafts, Readalongs, and More at Your Local Library
If you’re looking for a free Halloween- or fall-themed activity for your little ones, look no further than your local library. Various branches across all the boroughs have scheduled festive events and workshops for kids (and adults) of all ages. Make spooky crafts (either at the library or through to-go kits), listen to scary stories, watch movies, make slime, and much more!

Cost: Free
Various times and locations
Online: bklynlibrary.org, queenslibrary.org and nypl.org (for Manhattan, Bronx, and Staten Island)

Related: The Best NYC-Themed Costume Ideas For Your Kiddos

Halloween Animal Adventures around NYC

Halloween Programs at Alley Pond
Alley Pond has a full weekend of spooky events planned for kids, starting with the Not-So-Spooky Spiders and Snakes—an exploration of these amazing and often misunderstood animals and arachnids, with some live guests! Other events include chances to meet more animals considered “scary,” make Halloween-themed snacks, read spooky stories, create themed artworks and crafts, and participate in a Halloween party.

Cost, date, and time varies by program
224-65 76th Ave.
Oakland Gardens
Online: alleypond.org

Halloween on the Farm at the Queens County Farm Museum
Celebrate Halloween on NYC’s oldest working farm. Get lost (or rather, try not to) in the Amazing Maize Maze, a three-acre labyrinth among corn stalks. Your ticket also includes access to a spooky farmhouse, Halloween hayrides, a DJ dance party, an Adopt-a-Worm composting program, and a trick-or-treating event with the farm animals, which sends you on a hunt to find nine special stations throughout the farm. Local food vendors are on hand to feed hungry tummies and fresh produce will be available to purchase at the Farmstand.

Cost: $22.16, free for those 3 years old and younger
Sun., Oct. 30, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
73-50 Little Neck Pkwy.
Little Neck
Online: eventbrite.com

Spooky Fitness Opportunities around NYC

Haunted Island Race at Governors Island
Celebrate in style and stay in shape at the same time at the annual Haunted Island Race. The race offers both a 5K and a 10K option, and awards will be given out to the best runners by gender (male, female, non-binary) and age brackets. The race will take you all around Governors Island, giving you a chance to take in the views as you go. After the race, you’re welcome to explore the island and enjoy Halloween goodies. Your ticket nets you a ferry ride, a t-shirt, and a post-race meal. Costumes are encouraged!

Cost: Starting at $40
Sat., Oct. 29, 5K begins at 8:30 a.m., 10K begins at 9 a.m.
Governors Island, Colonels Row
Online: nycruns.com

Spooky Castle Yoga at The Skyscraper Museum
What do castles and yoga have in common? Both can be spooooky! At least, they can when you join this all-ages event for families. Discuss what makes up the architecture of a castle, then use what you learned to form yoga poses that draw inspiration from spooky castles and Halloween. RSVP is required and costumes are encouraged!

Cost: Free
Sat., Oct 29, 10:30 a.m.
39 Battery Pl.
Battery Park City
Online: skyscraper.org

Related: Praise the Gourd: Where to Go Pumpkin Picking near NYC

Haunted Cruises around NYC

Haunted Halloween East River Dinner Cruise
The National Lighthouse Museum’s Haunted boat tour will regale you with spooky stories as you enjoy a three-course dinner. The cruise will take you from Lighthouse Point, through Hell Gate, to Execution Rocks—all while sharing tales of the haunted history of key points along the way.

Cost: $97.54/adult, $54.98/child
Fri., Oct. 28, 6:30-10:30 p.m.
National Lighthouse Museum
200 The Promenade at Lighthouse Point
Staten Island
Online: eventbrite.com

Halloween Kids Spooky Cruise
See the city from a different perspective at this Halloween-themed and kid-oriented spooky cruise. Trick or treat on the water as you enjoy incredible views of the Manhattan skyline. The ship will be decked out in seasonal decor, have plenty of candy on board to satisfy little trick-or-treaters, and will keep the kids entertained with performances from costumed characters. Food and drink will be available to purchase—or you can upgrade to the Premium experience for a complementary food and drink package that also gets you a children’s goody bag with party favors and treats.

Cost: Starting at $45/adult and $40/child
Mon., Oct. 31, 1:30 p.m.
Departs from Pier 36
299 South St.
Lower East Side
Online: eventcruisesnyc.com

Halloween Activities Worth the Drive from NYC

The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze at Van Cortlandt Manor
This amazing display features over 7,000 lit Jack o-Lanterns, arranged into sculptures from architectural marvels to dinosaurs and the Statue of Liberty. Expect bright synchronized lights, jaw-dropping displays, and an original soundtrack. And yes, they’re real: The pumpkins are designed and carved by a team of artists. This year, the Blaze features an animated “Jack” Smith Shop and glowing bees.

Tickets are selling out fast, with some nights already unavailable or limited to a small number of tickets. If you’re considering attending this event, you’ll want to secure your tix sooner rather than later! The Blaze is coming to Long Island, too—buy tickets for that here.

Cost: Starting at $44/person, free for those 2 years old and younger
Select evenings, Sep. 16-Nov. 20
525 S. Riverside Ave.
Croton-on-Hudson, NY
Online: hudsonvalley.org

Legoland NY

Brick-or-Treat Presents Monster Party
LEGOLANDs across the nation are partying for Halloween, but unique to the New York location is that it will be debuting the world’s first wheelchair-accessible giant LEGO pumpkin! Without stairs, all guests will be able to join in on the photo opportunities. Not only that, the Monster Party will transform the Dragon Coaster into the “Disco Dragon Coaster” complete with a groovy monster soundtrack and party lights. There’s also a ghostly scavenger hunt in MINILAND where you can wander through the Haunted Nature Maze and discover candy along the LEGO Friends Nature Trail. And, of course, grab loads of sweets at trick-or-treating stations located along dedicated paths. Don’t forget your costume!

Cost: Starting at $85
Sep. 24-Oct. 30
1 LEGOLAND Blvd.
Goshen, NY
Online: legoland.com

Halloween Fest at the Liberty Science Center
The Halloween Fest is back and it’s better than ever, full to the brim with both indoor and outdoor activities. Pick out your favorite pumpkin at NJ’s largest indoor pumpkin picking patch—or just take a peek inside of one with an endoscope! Beyond the patch, you’ll learn about creepy crawlies like roaches, spiders, scorpions, and millipedes, as well as traditionally “spooky” Halloween icons like bats and skeletons. Then, head outdoors to make your way through the spider maze, dig for fossils, and find fall drinks and treats (no tricks here!).

Special events for the season are available for an additional fee.  catch a spooky planetarium show that highlights the Monsters of the Night Sky, like the Witch Head Nebula and the Medusa constellation. Hop into a Halloween-inspired laser show, or watch a creepy 3D movie, “Haunted House,”and get delightfully freaked out. If you visit on Oct. 30 or 31, make sure to wear your best Halloween costume, because the Center is hosting it’s wrap up party all weekend long with trick or treating, costumes, and more excitement.

Cost: $29.99/adult, $24.99/child, $26.99/senior
Throughout October during center hours
222 Jersey City Blvd.
Jersey City, NJ
Online: lsc.org

The Count’s Halloween Spooktacular at Sesame Place
A good choice for the tiniest of trick-or-treaters, Sesame Place is turned into a family-friendly Halloween haven between September 17 and November 6. Guests can trick-or-treat around the park, take in Halloween-themed shows and parades, participate in an interactive Scarecrow Scavenger Hunt, and take advantage of unique photo opportunities with Sesame’s furry friends dressed up in costume on Halloween-themed floats! Kids can also meet and greet Spookley, the square pumpkin, as he makes two weekend visits from Holiday Hill Farm.

For even more fun, check out the Not-Too-Spooky Halloween Drive-Through, enjoyed from the comfort of your own vehicle!

Cost: Starting at $42
Sep. 17-Nov. 6
100 Sesame Rd.
Langhorne, PA
Online: sesameplace.com

 

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Seattle Kids Weekend Events: Oct. 29-31

by Allison Sutcliffe

It’s Halloween weekend, parents! While we know many of you will be trick-or-treating around the neighborhood or at one of Seattle’s other Halloween hot spots on Sunday, that leaves Friday and Saturday to pack in autumn activities. Skate into the weekend with the return of Disney on Ice, an immersive art experience and a creepy nature program that’s Halloween-worthy. Get ready to make your plans!

Disney on Ice Seattle

 photo: Disney on Ice

Seattle

Disney on Ice presents Dream Big
Over Halloween weekend, Seattle kids have another reason to wear their costumes because Disney on Ice is back! So break out your favorite Disney character attire and grab tickets to the show. Dream Big is all about believing in yourself and its an inspirational romp on the ice. Watch as Miguel journeys through the Land of the Dead to unlock his family’s history, Moana and Maui bravely restore the stolen heart of Te Fiti and Anna and Elsa save their kingdom with strength, determination and kindness. Catch the show in Kent at the ShoWare Center or in Everett at the Angel of the Winds Arena. Tickets required. Oct. 27-Nov. 7. Kent event details; Everett event details.

Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience
Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience is a 44,000-square-foot light and sound spectacular featuring two-story projections of the artist’s most compelling works. Encounter the brilliance of one of history’s greatest artists in 360 degrees. It’s a one-of-a-kind virtual reality interactive that guides visitors on a journey through “A Day in the Life of the Artist.” Walk alongside Van Gogh during this peaceful, visually rich journey to discover the inspiration behind eight of his iconic works, including: Vincent’s Bedroom at Arles, and Starry Night Over The Rhone River. There’s even a surprise at the end for young artists. Tickets required. Daily, through Jan. 30, 2022. Event details.

Rec’N the Streets
Because you can never see too many pumpkins on Halloween weekend, take the kids on a pumpkin hunt with Rec’N the Streets. You’ve got two events to choose from that day. The first, that runs from noon-2 p.m., is a day time pumpkin hunt that tots will love. Then later that afternoon (from 3-5 p.m.) families can take advantage of the longer nights with a flashlight pumpkin hunt. Just remember to BYO flashlight! Sat. Event details.

 

Eastside

Free Family Day: BAM-O-WEEN
Calling all ghosts, superheroes and magical creatures! BAM is welcoming families to their free COVID-cautious Halloween bash. It’s a chance to show off your costumes and enjoy Halloween-themed events around the museum too, like Frankenstein figure drawing, the phantastic photo booth and a scavenger hunt around the second floor galleries. Trick-or-treat totes will be handed out too. Best for kids ages 4–10. Reservations required. Sat. Event details.

The Secret Life of Slugs
Just in time for Halloween, learn about creepy, slimy and cool slugs. Put your best tentacle forward and join a Bellevue Park Ranger to learn more about the slugs that call Lewis Creek home. Crawl in to learn more about that marvelous slime and to find a new perspective from the forest floor. Best for kids ages 5-10 with accompanying adult. Pre-registration required. Sat. Event details.

Free Family Mini Photo Session
Fall is a great time to get a jump start on your holiday photos and cards. And when you can take them with a 5-star rated photographer, even better. Shoott is a female-run, small business on a mission to make professional photography more accessible to the community, while providing stability and opportunity for freelance photographers. This weekend, families can book a free, Insta-worthy, outdoor mini session at Marymoor Park. Reservations required. Sun. Event details.

—Allison Sutcliffe

Looking for more things to do? Check out our full events calendar, our Fall Bucket List for Families and Tinybeans’ Guide to Seattle’s Fall Festivals for more ideas.

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Get Your Gourd at These Pumpkin Patches Near Austin

by Kate Loweth

Fall is here and that means it is time to pick the perfect pumpkin! Head out to one of these Austin-area pumpkin patches for a day of family-friendly activities and pumpkin picking, of course! You’ll find farms with tractor rides, corn mazes, pumpkin cannons and loads of other fall activities. Read on for the best pumpkin patches near Austin for kids.

istock

Barton Hill Farms
We love this spot because it has tons to of activities all spread out over the massive property so there's plenty to explore. Enjoy scenic views of the Colorado River while playing backyard games or sitting in a large wooden swing under the Cottonwood trees. Then explore the coolest corn maze or get your face painted by a pro. The pumpkins are a-plenty at this gorgeous spot!

1115 Farm to Market 969
Bastrop, TX
Online: tinybeans.go-vip.net

COVID-19 Update: The farm will be cashless this year and you must make a reservation in advance. 

Evergreen Farms
This spot is most well known for its Christmas trees but it's also a happening spot during pumpkin season. Visit on the weekends in October and you'll find a wagon ride into the Christmas tree field where mini pumpkins are hidden in the trees! The Evergreen Farms authentic pumper fire truck will again be at the Pumpkin Hunt this year. The truck will stop on the ride and demonstrate how the hoses and pumps work as well as sounding the sirens along the way.

242 Monkey Rd.
Elgin, TX
Online: tinybeans.go-vip.net

COVID-19 Update: Some pumpkin activities will not be available in 2021 in order to create a safe experience for all. Masks are not required, but are encouraged.

Pumpkin Patch, pumpkins, halloween, harvest, fall, fall festival, fall fun, gourd, hay rides, pumpkin farm, family
Laura Green

Crowe’s Nest Farm
Every Saturday and Sunday in October bring Fall Farm Days to the Crowe's Nest Farm. This 100-acre working farm is filled with hundreds of domestic farm animals and a wide, ever-growing array of Texas wildlife, gardens and educational exhibits. Other activities include raptor shows, snake shows, live music and lots of local vendors selling everything from fresh organic produce, eggs, honey, jam, bread and hand-crafted gifts.

10300 Taylor Lane
Manor, TX
Online: tinybeans.go-vip.net

Sweet Eats Fruit Farm
Looking for the picture-perfect Austin Texas Fall Festival Pumpkin Patch and corn maze? You’ve found just the spot with over 4.5 acres of a carefully carved corn themed maze. The farm will have a GIANT Texas sized pumpkin patch filled with over 40 different varieties of pumpkins along with food trucks, live music and over 30 different activities that are included with your general admission ticket. Pony rides, giant petting zoo, hay maze, jump pads, treasure mountain, apple slingshots, pipe races, and so much more. The farm does not accept cash, but does accept all major credit cards. 

14400 E. State Highway 29
Georgetown, TX
Online: tinybeans.go-vip.net

Pumpkin Patch, pumpkins, halloween, fall decorations harvest, fall, fall festival, fall fun, gourd, hay rides, pumpkin farm, scarecrow
Laura Green

Sweet Berry Farms
Closed on Wednesdays, come out any other day of the week during the fall season for some family fun! There's no parking or admission fee, just pay for what you want to try out like the candy corn kid maze, scarecrow stuffing and pumpkin painting. In addition to pumpkin picking, you can pick your own flowers here. Keep your furry friends at home as there are no pets allowed.

1801 FM 1980
Marble Falls, TX
Online: tinybeans.go-vip.net

The Jersey Barnyard
This 100-year old four-generation farm is nestled in the rolling hills of south central Texas among many beautiful oak trees. Every Saturday in October you can enjoy free pumpkin painting from 10 a.m.-noon with a pumpkin purchase. Families can also take a tour of the farm which includes feeding animals, milking a cow and a hay ride.

3117 State Hwy 159
La Grange, TX
Online: tinybeans.go-vip.net

—Taylor Clifton, Kate Loweth

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15 Wicked-Cool Alternatives to Trick-or-Treating This Year

by Amber Guetebier

To trick-or-treat, or not to trick-or-treat? That is the question for Halloween 2020. While we many of us don’t know “the plan” yet (didn’t school just start??) that doesn’t mean Halloween will be a nightmare! With a full moon and a Saturday calendar date, there are lot’s of alternatives (or additions) to trick-or-treating. Here are  15 wonderfully wicked ways to celebrate.

Go on a Ghost Tour...from Home

Loftus Hall courtesy Visit New Ross

Haunted Irish castles, spooky library ghost cams, and live walking tours all await you this season. Check out this lineup of places to get your scare on from the comfort of your own couch. 

Go Trunk-or-Treating

trunk-or-treat ideas
Lylees

Trunk-or-treating has been growing in popularity the last few years, especially for younger kids. You can even buy Halloween trunk decor online.  Essentially, a group of families decorate their cars and kids can trick-or-treat from trunk to trunk. Groups typically use a larger parking lot. Here are 16 spooktacular ideas to try it yourself. Be sure to practice social distancing with candy distribution especially, rather than handing candy out directly to kids. 

Social Distanced Candy Distribution

Kristina Paukshtite via Pexels

If you and your neighborhood/neighbors feel comfortable with a version of trick-or-treating this year, you can place candy at the end of a driveway or edge of your yard/bottom stoop and let kids take turns trick-or-treating while maintain social distance. Wear a cute Halloween face mask to keep safe and in the spirit of things. And if all else fails, you can make this amazing social distance candy slide. 

Stay in for a Scary Movie Night

Halloween jokes
Lukas Niescioruk via Unsplash

Pop up the popcorn and whip up a few festive treats (or a big bowl of Halloween candy), don your costumes and cue up a kids Halloween movie marathon. We love this list of not-too-spooky movies from Common Sense Media. Here's all the gear that's you'll need. 

Plan a Dramatic, Spooky Dinner

The Foodie and the Fix

Dress up in your finest costumes and set your table with decor worthy of the Addams Family, then serve up one or more of these healthy, festive Halloween meals. Make sure you linger over dessert and tell a spooky story or two, and perhaps sing along with few Halloween songs while cleaning up. 

Plan a Wicked Family Game Night

Disney Haunted Mansion Game
Funko Games

There are more "spooky" themed games out now than ever. In fact, our editor found 12 different board games perfect for Halloween night and suitable for ages toddler and up! Check them out here. 

Throw a Monster Dance Party

Jessica Rockowitz via Unsplash

Do the mash! Get your Halloween vibes going, put on your creepy attire and dance. With Halloween on a Saturday this year, if the weather permits you can even have an outdoor Monster Mash "party" with dance stations marked at 6 ft. (or more) apart. You'll just need costumes, big speakers, and this wicked-cool playlist. 

Set Up a Mini Pumpkin Hunt

Ryan Christodoulou

Think like the Easter Bunny this Halloween and hide some mini pumpkins and maybe even candy treats around your house, yard, or neighborhood. Adapt this idea to your kid's ages and how much space you have. Toddler? Keep it small (and repeat). Live in an apartment? Do it indoors! If your kids are older, you can suggest they help hide mini pumpkins around the neighborhood for the littler kids. Send out an announcement to let families know you've hidden little pumpkins (one mini per hunter). 

Similarly, you can do a scavenger hunt around your house/'hood. Try an app like Goosechase for help planning an easy one yourself. 

Happy Halloween Car Parade

Mariamichelle via Pixabay

Organize a car parade! Trick out your car in festive decor, put on your costumes (here are some of our favorite Etsy costumes) roll down your windows and hit the town. This one is best to organize in advance and plan an easy route where other kids can see. You can even have the kids stay at home to see the parade and let one of the grown ups head out in a freaked out car. Consider a monster-worthy "car show" too, where decorated cars can be parked in a lot (like a large school parking lot) several feet apart and kids can drive through or walk through to see the decor. 

A Very Witchy Outdoor Story Time

Valeria Boltneva via Pexels

Host an outdoor story time! There are so many wonderful Halloween reads, get a stack going, put on your best witch hat and scare up a group of families to listen in. Families can spread out in a park, or even a yard, with lots of space in between and keep your Halloween face masks handy. Designate family spots with a pumpkin where they can put down chairs or a blanket. 

Thow an (Outdoor) Pumpkin Decorating Party

Halloween happenings, Things to do
iStock

If the weather is right, you can have a small pumpkin carving or decorating party in an outdoor space. Set the stations up in advance following social distance guidelines with any supplies: if carving, tools or use paints or other decorating items. If you're feeling really ambitious, you can prep the pumpkins in advance and print out templates or try one of these amazing no-carve ideas. 

If you aren't able or aren't comfortable doing this with a small group of kids, you can still do it with your own kids. Even if you do this every year, make sure this year it's a bit more festive and a bigger deal. 

(Virtual) Pumpkin Run

Diogo Araújo via Pexels

Trail-running through a local apple orchard or around your favorite park with 75 of your closest friends may be well off the table this year, but why not start a new tradition with the kids with a virtual Pumpkin Run, like this one? It's a great way to get that PE fix and enjoy the fall air. Plus, you can run in a costume if you want and the added accountability of logging your time online is a great motivator. Never done a 5k (let alone with kids)? Check out these tips for getting started. 

Host a Virtual Costume Contest

Patricia Prudente via Unsplash

Throw a Zoom party where each kid and family gets a chance to show off their costumes. Have "prizes" designated for different categories: Best Group Costume, Funniest, Most Realistic, Most Unique, Best Superhero, etc. 

Yard Decor Contest

Lowe's

This might be the year you finally buy one of those giant Halloween yard inflatables! Get your neighbors in on the fun, and encourage everyone to decorate their yards. Create small paper invites and put them in people's mailboxes, letting them know the date of the competition, so they have plenty of time to get ready! On the day of, hop in your car (or on your bikes) and ride around to "judge" the houses. Make sure to include window-decor for anyone who lives in an apartment or doesn't have a yard. Have a few cool prizes ready, like gift cards or pumpkins or even a handmade ribbon. If you don't want the pressure of judging, get people to vote through a google form or Surveymonkey. Categories can include: Scariest, Friendliest, Strangest, Best Window, Best Door, etc. 

Scarecrow Competition

dsdinternational; via Pixabay

As with the yard idea above, organize a Scarecrow Competition. Let people know in advance when the "judging" will take place, to allow kids time to make the best scarecrow they can. Make sure it's placed in an easy-to-see spot at the designated time and then check them all out on bike or car. If you want to include people from other places beyond your town, make it virtual and have everyone submit a photo! Prizes can be honorary or virtual. 

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8 Toddler Games to Play on Halloween

by Meghan Yudes Meyers

From candy to costumes, there’s a lot to love about Halloween. But with ghosts, goblins and even some (fake) gore, it can be a pretty scary night for toddlers. If you’re planning on skipping trick-or-treating this year or you just want to add some more age-appropriate fun to your Halloween weekend, here are 8 ways to scare it up on Oct. 31st—without the fright. These games can be played indoors or out, and during the day or evening for maximum flexibility with your schedule.

photo: Freestocks.org via Pexels

1. There’s a Pumpkin Hiding in the Patch

Play hide-and-seek with pumpkins, ghosts, cats and bats. Print out these free Halloween templates, cut them out, and then hide them around your home or yard for a toddler-friendly Halloween hunt.

2. Pumpkin Hunt

Forget Easter baskets; this “egg hunt” lets little ones fill up their trick-or-treating bag without going door to door. Grab these pint-sized pumpkins and fill them with Halloween candy and tiny toys. Hide them indoors or out, depending on the weather.

3. Glow-in-the-Dark Ring Toss

You don’t have to wait for nightfall for this activity. Grab some glow-in-the-dark necklaces, turn off the lights and fling these rings for some spooky fun. Aim at the stem of a pumpkin, the point of a witch’s hat or the tops of milk jugs (painted with a ghost face, of course). You don’t have to ring a pumpkin to win the game; the player whose rings are closest to the target wins!

photo: Craig Adderley via Pexels

4. Let It Rain…Candy

Sweets take center stage on All Hallows’ Eve, so take it up a notch (literally) by hanging a ghost or goblin piñata and let the sugar pour down! Use a trick-or-treat bag to store the loot or go old school and let the kids scoop the treats into a pillowcase.

5. Pumpkin Putt-Putt

Turn your backyard or basement into a miniature golf course with this great idea from Dollar Tree. Carvable craft pumpkins, the styrofoam kind that make carving pumpkins easy and mess free, make great props for toddler-friendly games. Carve an oversize mouth for kids to knock their golf ball into. Hole-in-one!

6. Put the Boo in Boo-wling

Spook up a spare with a game of pumpkin bowling. Make the “pins” easy for little ones to knock down by sticking ghostly grins (we love this printable) onto empty toilet-paper rolls. To knock down the pins, use a small pumpkin (plastic or real) that’s roughly the size of an adult hand.

photo: Pinch of Parsley

7. Host a Pepper Carving Contest

Hacking into a pumpkin can be tough on little hands. Use peppers instead, and let the youngest of your bunch draw on faces with edible marker. They will need some help cutting the faces, but they can hollow out these vegetables on their own with a spoon. The best part: You can stuff the peppers and cook them after the contest for a festive Halloween dinner! Here’s an awesome recipe for taco-stuffed peppers from Pinch of Parsley.

8. Get Caught in the Spider’s Web

Fluffy, miniature black pom pom balls become creepy, crawling spiders in this fun toss game. Spin a spider web by criss-crossing painter’s tape or masking tape between a door frame.  Once you’ve created a sticky trap, let your littles take turns tossing their spiders to see who can get the most 8-legged insects caught in the web.

—Meghan Yudes Meyers

 

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Explore: The Growing Town of Bothell

by Allison Sutcliffe

Whether you live nearby or you’ve never been, bump Bothell up to the top of your need-to-check-out list this fall. Because this once small town has spent the last few years growing. And just like your little sprout, it wants to show you all the things! From parks and playgrounds, to historic buildings and ones soon-to-be-unveiled, we’ve got the 411 on where to take the fam to eat, play, shop and even stay in Bothell.

photo: courtesy of McMenamins 

Visit the Village

When it comes to the heart of Bothell, nothing says community more than Country Village, a collection of local indie-owned shops and restaurants, complete with chickens and ducks wandering around the country setting. It’s where locals and not so locals go to play, eat and visit with neighbors at the many events hosted here. From ladies’ shopping nights to their seasonal farmer’s market to the sweet little train that loops kids around the Village, mark it as a must-visit on your Bothell exploration list, then be sure to check out these family-friendly spots:

 

photo: Shirley M. via Yelp

Tickled Pink Spa and Party Place for Girls 
This by-appointment-only shop, bedecked in pinkalicious décor, is where local parents take their girliest kiddos for some spa time. Their Mommy and Me package ($60) includes a petite pedi or extended massage and scrub for mom paired with a petite pedi or mini mani for your sidekick. Or make an appointment for Littles-only with some friends where they can choose from a Pampered Princess ($50), Enchanted Princess ($60) or VIP (Very Important Princess, of course) ($75) packages tailored just for them. There are cute add-ons too, like favor bags, juice and cookies to make the afternoon complete. Owner Heather, a mom herself, has flexible appointment times, but be sure to call ahead before heading over for some spa time.

photo: Tash Lehman at T-elle Photography

Adventure Children’s Theater 
The dynamically dramatic duo of Chris Whalen and Sarah Seigneuret make up the Adventure Children’s Theater, a drama studio just for kids located in County Village. They teach classes, they put on productions and they dress up as characters and roam around the Village on special events days all season long. It’s enough to make your parenting schedule look tame… maybe. Be sure to check out their upcoming shortened season that starts in November with their popular Winnie the Pooh double feature show, where Sarah and Chris go on a Woozle hunt. That’s followed by their special Christmas show, ‘Tis the Season, one of their signature clown shows, featuring Vaudevillian stylings, door prizes, singing and lots of audience participation with total kid appeal. Expect to pay between $6-10 for either of these sweet productions.

photo: Sara Sokolowski

Be sure to put the free family events, sponsored by the Village, on your radar. They’ll be staging a Great Pumpkin hunt at this year’s Harvest Festival (Oct. 10-11) and recreating the classic film Frosty the Snowman on December 19. The spirit and enthusiasm these two bring to their productions is contagious and little theatergoers will find them irresistible. If yours just can’t get enough or wants to try their hand at some of that zany dramatic play, Sarah and Chris teach weekly classes at the studio for kids as young at 4, all the way through to stage-savvy 7th graders. The class schedules vary between 8 and 10 weeks and tuition ranges from $144-$180, depending on the program you choose. Bravo for this program!

Village Eatery & Tea Company
Bring your kidlet to the Village Eatery and Tea for a white glove affair. The Jack and Jill’s Favorite Afternoon English Tea ($12.95/child) has all the makings of Downton Abbey episode, but for kids! A spot of tea, hot cider or cocoa paired with a few kid-friendly noshables add to the atmosphere of this classic British tradition. When you’re making plans, remember there’s a maximum of three people for this one, unless you call ahead to make other arrangements. They’re open 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday to serve your fam!

photo: Sarah D. via Yelp

October Events
October starts the high tide of holiday happenings at Country Village, if you need an excuse to visit. Mark your calendars for the Witches Night Out shopping event and the ever-popular Harvest Festival, now in its 28th year. It’s got all the fall faves your kiddos long for: pony rides, face painting and pumpkin decorating!

Bounce Around

For those cooped up on fall days and when you just need to get out of the house to let the tot lot do their thing, Bothell has some great places (that aren’t your living room) for a little jump and tumble, kid-style. The Bothell Gymnastics Club hosts a daily Preschool Playtime ($7/kid for non-members) to help preserve your furniture and your sanity. Wiggle worms ages 5 and under can work that endless energy out on the trampolines, obstacle courses and in the giant foam pit alongside other tiny gymnasts while parents gab and gather or join in the fun. This place gets busy on those wet winter days, so be sure to arrive on the earlier side to get a spot. Preschool Playtime runs Mon.-Fri. from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and on the third Saturdays of the month from 4:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m.

photo: Bothell Gymnastics Club Facebook page

When older kids are in the mix, Elevated Sportz is the bound to bounce destination of choice. It takes the typical soft tumble spot to the next level, with four main trampoline areas that include a standard wall-to-wall tramp court, a 3-D dogeball court, a foam pit and a high-flying basketball court, so your little wannabe player can dunk like Jordan, even if she’s only 4. And we love the different packages and programs designed for little bouncers of all ages (and you, too!). A monthly Parent’s Night Out, Saturdays’ cosmic laser party nights and even a monthly Uplift Playtime for kids with special needs means each family can find a way to get in on the action. With the rainy season around the corner, we recommend buying tickets ahead of time to reserve spots for your crew.

 photo: Danielle Dolbec

Playgrounds and Parks and Trails. Oh my!

There are plenty of places to get your outdoors on in Bothell. Exploring new playgrounds for the munchkins and trails for the fam are a great way to round out a day here. A stop at the Park at Bothell Landing, along the Sammamish River, could take up a whole day when it’s sunny because there’s just so much to do. But it’s a great spot to hit if you’ve got a short window and a kidlet with energy to burn too. The playground’s stocked with preschooler faves and the nearby historic buildings are just as interesting from the outside as they are from the inside. But if you want that insider’s perspective you can peek into the Beckstrom Cabin, the original schoolhouse and the Hannan House (home to the Bothell Historical Museum) on Sundays between 1 p.m.-4 p.m., through the end of October.

photo: Danielle Dolbec

Bikes and sturdy walking shoes are welcome in this park too. Families can use them to stroll or bike the Sammamish River Trail that connects the Burke Gilman to Marymoor Park, and makes its way through the Park at Bothell Landing. This park is a mecca for water sports in the summer and early fall as well. Canoeing, kayaking and SUP-ing are the best way to explore the peaceful Sammamish River that skirts the park. Bring your water sport stash or rent what you need from WhatsSup. They recently switched over to their limited fall schedule (Wed.-Fri. 2 p.m.-6 p.m.; Sat. & Sun. 11 a.m.-6 p.m.) which is also weather dependent. But as long as the sun holds out, you can take the kiddos out on a canoe to watch the leaves change color.

photo: WhatsSup’s Facebook page

Little birders and their parents should spend some time along the North Creek Trail. This expansive trail-in-progress connects with the Sammamish River Trail and provides some easy walking for little busy bodies who want to explore the great outdoors. North Creek Park is another wildlife viewing spot for little rangers and their parents. After romping on the playground, stroll the boardwalk through the wetlands to spot some wild finds in the marsh. Frogs and herons and ducks. Oh my! (Psst… The city has spent the last two months repairing the boardwalk, but it should be ready to welcome little feet at the end of September.)

Carry the nature theme through with a trip to the (somewhat) recently opened Miner’s Corner Park. Playground? Check. Nature trails and paths? Check. A sand and water garden? Big time bonus check for this outdoor water play that changes with the seasons. Expect a mess with this one, so bring boots and a towel for some post play clean up.

photo: Angela Alanis 

Delish Eats

No matter where you are in Bothell, you’ll find good local eats for mom, dad and the kids. We love breakfast at the Hillcrest Bakery, an authentic Danish bakery that just celebrated its 50th year in town. All of their pastries, cookies, doughnuts and breads are worth a nibble, but since calories actually count, and you can only burn off so many chasing after your mini me, we suggest spending your daily allotment on the Almond Kringle or a slice of German Chocolate Cake. The Crystal Creek Café is another great breakfast option. It’s served up any time of day with an old school diner feel and some aviation flair that’s sure to amuse your future pilot. The kitschy décor fits the place and the airplane that’s suspended from the ceiling will keep little eyes upward, unless they’re busy eyeing a big plate of eggs and hash browns in front of them.

photo: Hillcrest Bakery Facebook page 

When it comes to food that’s as entertaining as it is tasty, try taking your bunch to The Sushi Zone on Main Street. The conveyer belt-style sushi makes feeding hungry kiddos super quick and easy, and let’s face it, those minutes count when avoiding a meltdown is on the menu. Alexa’s Café is another local haunt that hits the spot for breakfast or lunch. We love their laid-back feel and the half-size portions that make feeding the fam a simple matter of math, dividing up whole and half servings so everyone’s plate can be just right. Burger lovers of all sizes should stop by Teddy’s Bigger Burgers for some Hawaiian inspired burger creations, garlic fries and some fish tank love for the mini me’s. They can hang with the fishes while you gobble down a gigantic burger. And kids eat free Mon.-Wed, so there’s that too!

photo: Tien T. via Yelp 

Coming Attraction

This October, Bothell will solidify its place on the map when McMenamins opens Anderson School. The brothers are at it again and this time they’re bringing their unique resort compound style to the Seattle area (lucky us!), opening a 72-room hotel in the fully restored former Bothell Junior High Campus. Like many of their Portland properties, the Anderson School will feature a movie theater, indoor swimming pool and numerous food and drink venues peppered around the property, all with a school-theme set to tip the nostalgia scales for mom and dad. Detention never sounded so good! Whether you’re interested in a family staycation this fall or an outing for the day, this is one place to keep an eye on after it opens. School’s set to be in session October 15, 2015.

photo: courtesy of McMenamins

What are your favorite spots to hit in Bothell? Tell us about them in the Comments below. 

— Allison Sutcliffe (and Bothell mom Danielle D.)

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Halloween Happenings for D.C.’s Littlest Goblins

by Ayren Jackson-Cannady

Trick or treating is a rite of passage for bigger kids, but for toddlers and babies (who we love to see dressed up, too) collecting buckets full of candy is sort of pointless. There are only so many lollies mom and pop can eat for their toothless tot, right? If you still want to get into the holiday spirit with your littlest bambinos, check out these around town activities, full of non-scary entertainment and age appropriate treats. Finally, they can get all dressed up and have someplace to go!

Photo: Juhan Sonin via Flickr

Eye Spy Train at Cabin John Regional Park
While there are quite a few haunted train rides in the area, this is the only one suitable for kids under eight. Kids should come dressed to impress in their costume and have their eye spy eyes ready—they’ll be looking for familiar friends and animals hiding in the woods. Each kid rider gets an “Eye Spy” card to mark off the things they see. Bonus: each night a family-friendly Halloween movie will be shown.

When: Oct. 16-18, 23-25 and 28-31; 1 pm-8 pm (weekend), 3 pm-8 pm (weekday)
Cost: $6
7410 Tuckerman Ln. (Rockville, Md)
301-765-8670
Online: montgomeryparks.org

Boo at the Zoo
This hip Halloween happening at the National Zoo is one of D.C.’s most popular family haunts.  More like a huge costume party than a haunted house, Boo at the Zoo caters to families with children 2 to 12. There will be animal encounters, festive decorations, and plenty of tasty treats with more than 40 trick-or-treat stations. Don’t leave the park without a spin around the zoo’s conservation carousel ride (tickets required).

When: Oct. 23-25, 5:30 pm-8:30 pm
Cost:$20-$30
3001 Connecticut Ave., NW (Woodley Park)
202-633-4888
Online: https://nationalzoo.si.edu

Halloween Toddler Time at the B&O Railroad Museum
Tykes gather ’round in their ghoulish garb to listen to a railroad story, get crafty and chug-a-chug-a behind Choo Choo Blue (the museum’s trusty mascot). Don’t be shy about joining in the costume parade around the B&O Roundhouse–the more cabooses (or princesses or Minions), the better!

When: October 28, 10:30 am
Cost: kids/$12; $18/adults
901-W. Pratt St. (Baltimore, Md)
410-752-2490
Online: borail.org

Pumpkin Hunt at Lee-Fendall House
Unstrap those toddlers and let them wander the Lee-Fendall House garden where they can search for colorful toy-filled pumpkins (Easter egg hunt-style). Come dressed up, as there will also be a costume parade. Other fam-friendly activities include crafts and not-so-spooky stories. All kids elementary school age or younger are eligible to participate in the Halloween Pumpkin Hunt.

When: Oct. 23-24
Cost: kids/ $12; adults/$5
614 Oronoco St. (Alexandria, Va)
703-548-1789
Online: leefendallhouse.org

Del Ray Halloween Parade
Celebrating its 19th year this Halloween, the annual Del Ray march is a lively, fun-filled parade of parents, kids, pets, ghouls and superheroes that winds its way through the family friendly Del Ray neighborhood of Alexandria. The route, which starts at Mt. Vernon Avenue, south of E. Bellefonte, and continues down to the Mt. Vernon Recreation Center play fields at Mt. Vernon and Commonwealth Avenues., is under one mile, making it a perfect afternoon activity for costumed parents, pets and littles. P.S. Strollers are allowed on the parade route (even better if they’re decorated).

When: Oct. 25, 1:30 pm
Cost: Free
Mt. Vernon Ave. at Commonwealth Ave. (Alexandria, Va)
Online: visitdelray.com

Did we miss any tot-friendly Halloween events? Tell us about them in the comments section below. 

—Ayren Jackson-Cannady

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