Though Halloween is quickly approaching, there’s still time to celebrate the season in and around Boston. From haunted houses to themed events, here are a few festive activities to enjoy before the month ends.
While there aren’t many pumpkin patches within city limits aside from a quick trip to the grocery store, Pakeen Farm in Canton is just a train ride away. The family-run farm offers a wide variety of pumpkins, gourds and apples, making it a perfect spot for a fall day. A fan favorite is the hot apple cider and fresh cider donuts made to order. When the holiday season rolls around, Pakeen Farm also sells fresh Christmas trees that keep visitors coming back year after year.
For those 21 and older, many bars and restaurants around the city host themed events throughout October. Vera’s, a Cambridge tavern, is no exception. Fans of David Lynch’s “Twin Peaks” will find part of the bar transformed into a pop-up inspired by the cult classic during the last week of October. The menu features themed cocktails inspired by the show, and on Wednesday, Vera’s will host a “Miss Twin Peaks,” drag contest. The first-place winner will receive $100 in cash and a $100 gift card.
While not exactly in Boston, the nearby town of Salem is a must-visit this time of year. Known for its infamous 1692 witch trials, Salem embraces the spooky season like nowhere else. Each October, the streets fill with costumed visitors, local vendors and live performances. From psychic readings and ghost tours to pop-up markets and haunted houses, there’s something in Salem for everyone. History buffs can explore the Salem Witch Museum or The Witch House, the only building still standing with direct ties to the witch trials.
Back in Boston, the Ghosts and Gravestones Trolley Tour takes visitors on a spooky ride through the city’s haunted history. The tour, which runs daily from 6 to 9 p.m. explores eerie locations like The Omni Parker House, known as Boston’s most haunted hotel, and the sites tied to the infamous Boston Strangler. Part of the tour includes walking, so guests should dress appropriately, and tickets are available for purchase on the organization’s website.
Thursday, the Boston Children’s Museum will host an adults-only event, dubbed “Boston Grown-Ups Museum: A Nightmare at the Museum.” Starting at 7 p.m., the event features a costume contest, adult trick-or-treating, themed cocktails and more. Guests must pay a $30 cover fee and show proof of a valid government ID in order to get in.
The Brattle Theatre in Cambridge, located a short walk from the Harvard Square T Station, has been screening festive films all month long. During its annual “Halloweek” celebration, running through the end of October, the theater will show a variety of cult classics. Though there are multiple screenings daily, a few movies showing throughout the week include “A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors” on Tuesday, “Oddity” on Wednesday, “The Crow” on Thursday and “Bram Stoker’s Dracula” on Friday.
Another attraction outside the city but not too far away, Barrett’s Haunted Mansion offers a range of terrifying experiences through early November. The venue features two main attractions, the “Haunted Mansion,” and “Outpost 34,” as well as themed events throughout the month. For $55, guests can purchase a “Bite and Fright” package, which includes dinner at the Abington Ale House and general admission to both haunted attractions.
For guests looking for a bigger thrill, “Devil’s Night at Outpost 34,” is a one-night-only event on Tuesday. The experience includes intense scares, physical contact and up-close interactions. Guests must be at least 18 to attend and show ID at the door. While tickets can usually be purchased at the door, it’s recommended for guests to purchase them in advance due to limited availability.
