Have a ghoulishly good time at these family-friendly events at Philly parks and rec centers.
Our parks, playgrounds, and recreation centers are celebrating October with a variety of hauntingly fun events!
Events listed in chronological order. Be sure to check the links provided to view more information and in case of inclement weather.
BYO Pumpkin at Louis I. Kahn Park
October 31, 2023
5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Louis I. Kahn Park—1101 Pine Street, 19147.
Friends of Louis I. Kahn Park invite you to their annual BYO Pumpkin Contest. Enjoy treats and prizes. Costumes welcome! Bring your own carved or decorated pumpkin. No carving at the party. There will be live music by UArts, and wrapped treats for all prizes. See Facebook for details.
PAST EVENTS
Freaky Friday
Show dates Oct. 20, 21, 22, 27, 28 and 29
Times vary
Venice Island Performing Arts and Recreation Center—1 Rector Street, 19127.
What is it like to stand in someone else’s shoes? One family learns the challenges when they swap bodies for a day. This musical is based on the novel by Mary Rodgers and the hit Disney films. Visit the center’s website to buy tickets.
Park After Dark: Moonwalk & Stargazing Party
October 24, 2023
6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Lemon Hill Mansion– Sedgley Drive and Lemon Hill Drive, 19130.
Sponsored by Fairmount Park Conservancy.
Enjoy a guided moon walk on Lemon Hill Rim Trail. Then view the moon using a high-powered telescope. Come gaze at the planets and discuss other astronomical wonders of the night sky. Instructor Buddy Muhler will discuss lunar cycles and visible surface features of the moon. See more details and buy tickets.
Halloween Campfire and Full Moon Party
October 27, 2023
7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Pennypack Environmental Center— 8600a Verree Road, 19115.
Walk through a spooky woods to a campfire. Then sing songs and listen to stories. Do arts and crafts. Enjoy snacks and play games. Learn more and buy tickets for this event.
Barely Scary Halloween Bash
October 27, 2023
4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Smith Memorial Playground & Playhouse– 3500 Reservoir Drive in East Fairmount Park, 19121.
Get ready for an evening of family fun at the Barely Scary Halloween Bash! This ghoulish gathering is perfect for families looking for a not-so-scary Halloween experience. Come dressed in your costumes. Learn more on their website.
Haunted Horses
October 28, 2023
4 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Northwestern Stables – 120 W. Northwestern Avenue, 19118.
This event delights young and old alike with dozens of horses in costume alongside equally decked-out riders. Attendees are encouraged to come in costume and trick or treat. This is a family event and is appropriate for children of all ages. Read more information and purchase tickets on their website.
Fun and Treats Festival
October 28, 2023
8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Mcllvain Playground– 5200 Penn Street, 19124.
Celebrate Fall and have fun at the Fun and Treats Festival. Enjoy shopping for unique treasures, playing games, and eating candy. Visit Facebook to read more information.
Halloween in Pretzel Park
October 28, 2023
10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Pretzel Park—4300 Silverwood Street, 19127.
A costume parade for children, adults and pets starts at 10:30 a.m. followed by activities for children. Organized by Friends of Pretzel Park and Pretzel Park Farmers Market. Read more details on their Facebook page.
Halloween Costume Contest
October 28, 2023
2 p.m.
Bridesburg Recreation Center— 4625 Richmond Street, 19137.
Calling all ghosts and goblins. It’s time to dress up in your favorite costume. Boys and girls ages 10 and under are welcome to attend. Read more information on Facebook.
Bat Walk
October 28, 2023
4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
FDR Park– 1500 Pattison Avenue, 19145.
Did you know there are about 1,300 species of bats? Come learn about bat roosts, diet, hibernation and conservation. Learn more on Facebook.
Pumpkin Succulent Planter Workshop at Glen Foerd
October 29, 2023
2 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Glen Foerd–5001 Grant Avenue, 19114.
Learn how to create a beautiful pumpkin succulent planter. Pre-registration and pre-payment are required to hold your spot. Learn more and buy tickets on Eventbrite.
