Spooky season is upon us, and with it comes many exciting things to do in October in NYC.
If you’re channeling all-things scary, we’ve rounded up parades, haunted houses, and beyond for your autumnal adventures that would make Freddy, Jason, and Michael proud.
Should you prefer something that doesn’t involve shrieks and screams, no sweat — we’ve got you covered there, too. Unless you’re heading to NoHo’s new bathhouse that is. (More on that below.)
No matter what kind of fall you envision, we know the best way to spend it. Have a look at the can’t-miss events, openings, and beyond taking place in your favorite city.
Attend scary-good Halloween events throughout NYC
From fall festivals and haunted houses to pumpkin patches and parades, NYC takes spooky season quite seriously, and its list of events is frighteningly good.
If you’re having a little trouble picking a costume or deciding what sweets to hand out during trick-or-treating, we’ll eliminate any confusion on NYC’s extensive seasonal to-do list. Our Halloween guide has anything and everything you goblins and ghouls need to know.
Stop by the world’s largest Halloween parade in the Village
Though it goes without saying, NYC’s annual Village Halloween Parade is truly a show-stopper.
With a crowd of nearly 80,000 costumed spectators, there will be no shortage of sights. However, our cold black hearts are partial to its grand finale: a city-wide performance of Michael Jackson’s “Thriller.”
The festivities will kick off on October 31st at 7pm, and the parade route runs from Sixth Ave from Canal St to 15th St.
Bring your pup to the Tompkins Square Park Dog Parade
A must for four-legged friends and their human companions, the Tompkins Square Park Halloween Dog Parade is arguably more enticing than the Village Halloween Parade. (Dogs in costumes — c’mon!)
Join the fun on Sunday, October 19th from 1-4pm.
Pay a visit to Blood Manor
Consider yourself a horror fan? Then the 10,000 square foot attraction complete with eerie rooms, costumed characters, and twists and turns will be right up your alley…right?!
If you’re looking to test your bravery, snag tickets online.
🗓️ From October 3rd
Explore NYC’s best Halloween neighborhoods
Ghosts, and ghouls, and goblins, oh my! Halloween decorations in NYC run the gamut from creepy to kooky and everything in between.
While we love a good costume party and can’t resist marching in the Village Halloween Parade, some of the best Halloween events in NYC consist of simply walking down the street. Allow us to be your guide to the boroughs’ best.
See this “Thriller” Buzzing On Broadway
One of the most notable parts of NYC’s annual Halloween parade is when everyone gets into formation and breaks out into the “Thriller” dance in unison. You don’t have to wait to dance to Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” and other hits! MJ The Musical is centered around the making of his 1992 Dangerous World Tour and showcases the sights and sounds of one of the greatest entertainers of a generation. This show is a 4x Tony award-winning production, and you can secure your tickets here.
Grab a scary read from NYC’s first horror bookstore
If your bookshelf could use a little spooky sprucing, you’re in luck: The Twisted Spine, NYC’s first-ever horror bookshop, has just opened its doors in Williamsburg.
The quaint shop is filled with a dark academia vibe, well-stocked black shelves, and cozy leather couches.
While you peruse the selections, be sure to indulge in a pastry and coffee, take your buys out to the backyard, and have a look at the upcoming events section for signings, book clubs, and more.
📍 306 Grand St, Brooklyn
Check out “Spirits at Carmine’s”
Before you dig into the plateful of chicken parm at Carmine’s, take a few minutes to figure out a mystery.
In this theatrical immersive experience at one of NYC’s most iconic Italian restaurants, diners will hear the story of immigrant Olive Thomas, a speakeasy singer, who arrived in NYC in 1927. After a fateful deal, Olive doesn’t end up living the American dream she was planning to, and it’s up to masked audience members to decide her fate.
And once the fun wraps up, by all means, stick around for a family style dinner.
Should you have little ones, might we suggest Carmine’s “Grandest Princess Ball Ever” instead? There’s no Olive, cocktails, or mystery, but your little one will love the singing, games, and one-on-one time with their favorite princesses like Anna and Elsa!
📍 Carmine’s Times Square
Step in the Haunted NYC Bank…if you dare
What was once a bank in NYC is now an eerie immersive experience that drops you right into a scary situation: cinematic sets, live actors, and a story that’s sure to give you the creeps. The secret is out of the vault: this bank-turned-haunted-house is one of the most frightening Halloween events happening in NYC.
Have a sleepover at the Museum of Natural History
After a five-year hiatus, kiddos can finally spend the night at the American Museum of Natural History and live out their Night at the Museum dreams IRL.
From fossil hunting and trivia, to nightlight tours and late-night snacks, experiencing AMNH after-hours is not something you’d want to miss.
The first session kicks off in October. Check out the full schedule online.
See if you can endure the Guinness record-holder for world’s longest haunted house
Located just 40 miles outside of NYC in Monroe, Pure Terror Scream Park is packed with chills, including 10 fright-filled areas including The Crypt, Resurrection Cemetery, Bedlam State Asylum, Psycho Circus, and more. And even if you’ve gone in past years, Pure Terror has all-new attractions for 2025: Panic Attack Extreme and Scapegrace High. Get your tickets here if you think you have what it takes!
Grab tickets to a Candlelight concert
A feast for the ears and eyes, Candlelight concerts deliver in spades.
String musicians gather in some of NYC’s most stunning locations — including the Gothic Revival St. Ann’s Church in Brooklyn Heights — to play classical renditions of your favorite artists.
Celebrate Diwali in NYC
Wander through The Nightmare Before Christmas Light Trail
The New York Botanical Garden is taking a cue from Tim Burton’s book once again and lighting up its bucolic trails in honor of the spooky sensation, Nightmare Before Christmas. And honestly, who’s more appropriate for a fall celebration than the Pumpkin King, Jack Skellington? No one.
Wander through 8,300 square feet of Jack’s world via tunnels, light projections, and the Oogie Boogie lair. If we didn’t know any better, we’d say there’s magic in the air!
🗓️ September 25th to November 30th
Celebrate Taylor Swift’s The Life of a Showgirl
Just in case you missed the world-wide phenomenon, Taylor Swift has dropped her 12th studio album, The Life of a Showgirl, filled with her signature catchy tracks and mysterious Easter eggs.
Though it might be a minute before we get another Eras tour, you can celebrate the release of her new album — and her greatest hits — on Wednesday, October 8th at 6pm with The Scoops + Special Guests Sofia D’Angelo, Isabella Kensington, Ella DeNapoli, Piper Phillips, EZI & ROSIE at Sony Hall (235 W 46th St).
The fun will kick off at 6pm and includes your favorite new and classic Tay tracks, as well as tasty bites on Sony Hall’s menu. (We think Taylor would appreciate the Chandon Garden Spritz, personally.)
Get your tickets online. ($30 general admission, $35 general admission day-of the event, and $55 VIP tickets.)
Take the kiddos to Boo at the Zoo…
There’s nothing like an afternoon at the Bronx Zoo, especially during the Halloween season. On weekends until October 26th — plus Monday, October 13th — families can arrive in costume for Boo at the Zoo and enjoy the Boo Dance Party, a walk through the Pumpkin Garden, and but of course, an up-close look at the coolest animals in the world.
📍 2300 Southern Blvd, Bronx
…or Harvest Glow
The Bronx Zoo’s newly reimagined Halloween extravaganza is back and better than ever with over 5,000 illuminated pumpkins that represent our planet’s various ecosystems. Enjoy the gorgeous hand-carved spectacle, fun games, food trucks, and more from now until October 31st. Learn more online.
📍 2300 Southern Blvd, Bronx
Get a taste of Chicago in Brooklyn
The midwest in Brooklyn? You better believe it.
Cast members of Chicago: The Musical will venture to Greenpoint for the Wild Honey Pie Pizza Party at Paulie Gee’s on October 8th.
Theater-lovers will enjoy unlimited pizza, sweets by Overlook Bakery, and plenty of surprises along the way. Plus, this Broadway-inspired celebration is all for a good cause: ticket sales will benefit Kiss the Ground nonprofit.
Learn more about the event online.
Get a makeover from your favorite NYC drag queen
Fancy a fun glow-up this Halloween season? You’re in luck. The NYC Drag Makeover Experience will transform you into the spooky look of your nightmares with help from a professional makeup artist.
When all is said and done, celebrate your new look with a lip sync battle and dance party!
Attend FRIGID New York’s Days of the Dead Festival
From October 16th to November 2nd, FRIGID New York is celebrating the afterlife with a lineup of variety shows, short horror plays, psychic mediums, and more macabre madness at UNDER St. Marks (94 St. Mark’s Place). What better way to ring in Halloween and Día de los Muertos?
Book a table during Make Food Not Waste Restaurant Week
Make Food Not Waste Restaurant Week, held across NYC from September 29th to October 5th, is all about dining with a purpose. Chefs from top restaurants like Bangkok Supper Club, Cafe Mado, and Corima, to name a few, are all promoting what it means to eat without wasting — and they’ll have either signature dishes or cocktails to prove it.
Michelin-starred restaurants and James Beard Award winners are among the lineup. Learn more online.
Bring the family to Taste of the Seaport
Everyone’s favorite downtown fest returns on October 25th, all for a good cause: supporting lower Manhattan public schools.
During this annual event, now in its 15th year, you’ll be able to taste bites from renowned restaurants like Carne Mare, the legendary Delmonico’s, and Chef John Fraser’s modern French brasserie La Marchande, shop local goods, and enjoy kids’ activities.
📍 Pier 16 & 17
Enjoy a tea fit for Elphaba and Glinda
From now until November 11th, Wicked-obsessed theater folks can enjoy “Defying Gravi-Tea” Afternoon Tea in The Palm Court in the Plaza. Goodies include Wicked Ube Cheesecake, Glinda’s “Popular” Raspberry Tart, and the Oz-mazing Hazelnut Crunch. Cheers!
Cheers to Oktoberfest
The Standard Biergarten at The Standard, High Line (848 Washington St) will ring in Oktoberfest with two back-to-back weekends of celebrations beginning at 4pm on September 27th and Oct 4th. Expect beer, DJs, games, beer, prizes, a best-dressed at Oktoberfest contest, and beer. Did we mention there’s beer?
Stop by the Fall Fest at the Rockaway Hotel
Sure, the Rockaway Hotel is one of NYC’s beloved summer escapes, but that doesn’t mean the party stops once the Autumnal Equinox rolls in.
On Sunday, October 19th from 1-4pm, the hotel will host its Fall Fest at 11am with fall-themed food and drinks, local vendors, a pie-making contest at 2pm, and of course, screenings of the football games.
Take Fido to the Great Pupkin
Dogs in costumes? Need we say more?
Fort Greene Park Users and Pets Society (PUPS) announces the 27th Annual Great PUPkin Dog Costume Contest on Saturday, October 25th. If you and Fido have a great costume in mind this year, sign up ASAP! The crowd will pick the winner.
📍 Fort Greene Park
Attend the Blessing of the Animals
Arguably one of NYC’s best events is the Feast of St. Francis and Blessing of the Animals. When else can you see a camel strut down a cathedral aisle?
St. John the Divine will host the beloved gathering on Sunday, October 5th to honor Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of the environment and ecology. The service kicks off at 10:30am and the outdoor fair will follow, rain or shine.
Stop by Juilliard for some music
World-class musicians-in-the-making are holding free and low-cost performances at The Juilliard School of music. Whether you fancy some jazz or can’t resist a string quartet, there’s something for you. Have a look at the fall schedule and plan your evening out.
Stop by BBG’s Fall Harvest Festival
Brooklyn Botanic Garden — a prime spot in NYC for some fall foliage — is making the most of the season with a festival beginning at 11am on October 25th.
Visitors will get to enjoy live music, family activities, a cider and beer garden, pumpkin-decorating, and more.
Marvel at 7,000 hand-carved pumpkins
If you thought the art of sculpting a jack-o-lantern was easy, wait until you stop by the Hudson Valley.
The area’s iconic Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze returns for another spectacular season, and the display is considered The Met of pumpkin decor. The sculpted, illuminated creations make for a great fall photo opp.
Enjoy waves and waterfalls at this new museum
The second location in the US, the Arte Museum is a 5,000 square foot immersive experience centered around the theme “Eternal Nature.”
For some amazing sights, some zen vibes, and more, check it out!
📍61 Chelsea Piers, New York
Track fall foliage throughout NY
NYC is about to undergo a colorful makeover.
As the leaves begin to change, make sure to keep an eye on the I Love NY fall foliage map to see when your area is in for its peak autumnal goodness. We’ve also rounded up the best spots throughout NYC to catch a glimpse of the gorgeous foliage if you fancy an afternoon walk this fall.
Stop by a magic show
If there’s ever a time to indulge in the inexplicable, spooky season would be it.
For a few brain-busting, sleight of hand maneuvers from a pro, head over to Greg Dubin’s Magic at the Clock Shop — a Carroll Gardens storefront that isn’t exactly what it appears.
Once you make your way beyond the “clock shop’s” front door, you’ll enter a small, cozy room with velvet curtains, Persian rugs, quirky artwork, ventriloquist dolls, and plenty of tricks that’ll leave you scratching your head. Make sure to order a cocktail while the show gets underway.
📍 449 Court St
Grab a bite at the IRL Central Perk
Take a seat on the orange couch and indulge in a pastry or two: Friends‘ fictional coffee shop is getting an IRL outpost in Times Square, and we could not be any more excited!
We’ll keep you posted as soon as an opening date is revealed.
📍 20 Times Square
Stop by The Law & Order Dun Dun Diner
If the criminal justice system piques your interest, pull up a chair: The Law & Order “Dun Dun Diner” is heading to Rockefeller Center from October 3rd to 5th, and it’d be a crime to miss out.
Beginning Friday, September 19th at 12pm ET and 9am PT, fans can secure a table on a first-come, first-serve basis via Tock.
📍 1 Rockefeller Plaza
Try your hand at pinball
Did you know that pinball in NYC was once illegal?!
That’s right: the arcade staple was once a no-go, but fortunately for us, that’s no longer the case.
At Red Hook’s Pinball Museum, hidden behind the Seaborne bar, you can try your hand at machines that are over 140 years old! .
📍 228 Van Brunt St, Brooklyn
Snag free reads from The House of SpeakEasy Bookmobile
Free books? Say no more.
The House of SpeakEasy Bookmobile is making its rounds throughout NYC this fall, and if you happen to be in its general vicinity, you could snag a complimentary new read. Check out the schedule.
Get tickets to Comic Con
Now is the time to assume a superhero mindset and snag NYCC 2025 tickets — your inner vigilante is calling.
From panels and signings to celeb appearances and plenty of merch, the pop culture and cosplay extravaganza offers no shortage of fun moments. This year will be especially fun to horror aficionados with the “Haunted” theme.
Find your best costume and head to the Javits Center.
🗓️ October 9th-12th
See new Broadway shows debuting this fall
Midtown marquees will set the Great White Way aglow with names of the new Broadway shows arriving in NYC this fall.
From love stories and returning favorites to star-studded productions — move over, Othello and Good Night, And Good Luck — the 2025 lineup is one for the books.
Expect a Bill & Ted reunion of sorts with Keanu Reeves and Alex Winter in Waiting for Godot, plus Chess, the Cold War-era love triangle with Lea Michele at the helm. Oh, and let’s not forget a spooky-season must: the return of Beetlejuice.
Visit NYC’s new two-story bathhouse
Lore, the 6,200-square-foot wellness experience, acts as a combo of hot and cold therapy with saunas, cold plunges, and other features to help you get your zen on.
Plus, unlimited monthly memberships are on tap.
📍 676 Broadway
Check out the season’s best concerts
Laufey, Sabrina Carpenter, and Renée Rapp are all NYC-bound this spooky season. Which concerts are you catching?
Stop by one of NYC’s best museums — for free
Trust us, it’s true: there *is* such a thing as free museums, NYC. You just have to be privy to each attractions’ perks — and that’s where we come in.
Have a look at our list of the best free museum days happening throughout the city and mark your calendar accordingly.
Get a taste of Miami right in NYC
Miami’s cult-favorite restaurant, Motek, has made its way to NYC with $5 happy hour deals and all-day brunch.
The Mediterranean hotspot got its reputation for its shakshuka, Middle Eastern dumplings and Turkish lamb kebabs, among other dishes.
Plus, Miami’s beloved Faena Hotel has also touched down in NYC with close proximity to the Highline, a massive spa, and balcony showers. (Might want to save that for the warm weather, though.)
Grab something at NYC’s first-ever all-Indian cocktail bar
Butter chicken cocktails? Believe it, folks.
INDN just landed in NoMad, and the bar pays homage to our favorite Indian Dishes, except it makes them in drink form.
Of course, you’ll be able to grab a bite to eat as well thanks to the Chakhna menu—a style of food traditionally paired with alcohol.
📍30 W 30th St
Try all-things pumpkin at Salt & Straw
Feeling autumnal? Get a taste of fall’s best flavors at Salt & Straw, thanks to their new Pumpkin Spiced Waffle Cone and Pumpkin Spiced Brownie Sundae.
Co-founder Tyler Malek tells Secret NYC, “We worked with the best spice company in the world, Diaspora Spice Co, to use spices that have more depth and character than the basic stuff you’d get at the grocery store, spiking it with a few unexpected heroes like black pepper and grinding it coarser for a fresher flavor.”
Malek continued, “I’m in love with this take on the classic “pumpkin spices” and excited for people to taste our rendition of a more elevated state.”
📍 360 Amsterdam Ave & 540 Hudson St
Grab your ice skates
Although it might be hard to believe, ice skating season is upon us, and the Rink at Rockefeller Center reopens on October 12th.
Reservations are officially open, so why not try to snag a spin around the iconic rink before the tourists make their way into town?