10 of the Best Places to Celebrate Halloween in the U.S.

Welcome to a thrilling journey through the top Halloween destinations in the United States, where the spirit of All Hallows’ Eve comes to life in unique and captivating ways. Get ready for a virtual tour of the top 10 places that promise unforgettable Halloween memories and a bewitching adventure for all who dare to indulge in the magic of the season.

Salem, Massachusetts

The Witch House. Salem, Massachusetts, USA.
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Salem’s deep-rooted history in witchcraft and the infamous witch trials provides a spooky backdrop for Halloween celebrations. The month-long festivities include haunted attractions, historical tours, and a grand parade, offering a unique and immersive Halloween experience.

New Orleans, Louisiana

NEW ORLEANS, USA - OCTOBER 10, 2014: The upper balcony of a house on Bourbon Street is heavily decorated for Halloween with ghouls, ghosts and skulls.
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Known for its vibrant culture and mystique, New Orleans adds a distinctive flair to Halloween celebrations. The city’s rich history of voodoo and the supernatural is embraced in events like the Voodoo Fest, and the haunted ambiance of the French Quarter adds to the overall spooky charm.

Sleepy Hollow, New York

Sleepy Hollow, New York USA - October 19 2021: Headless Horseman Halloween Decorations at a Barbershop in Downtown Sleepy Hollow New York
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Inspired by Washington Irving’s timeless tale, Sleepy Hollow fully embraces its connection to the Headless Horseman. The town’s Halloween celebrations include haunted hayrides, spooky events, and a sense of nostalgia for the classic American ghost story.

Anoka, Minnesota

Anoka, Minnesota / USA - October 26, 2018: Big Parade of Little People. Anoka Halloween Capital of the world
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Anoka’s claim as the “Halloween Capital of the World” is backed by its enthusiastic Halloween spirit. The town hosts a large Halloween parade, pumpkin contests, and various community events that bring residents and visitors together for a festive experience.

Los Angeles, California

Los Angeles, USA - October 28, 2017: Skeleton sculpture during 18th Annual Dia de los Muertos, Day of the Dead, at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery.
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Hollywood’s influence makes Los Angeles a hub for extravagant Halloween celebrations. The city’s nightlife comes alive with massive costume parties, and themed events, providing an opportunity for creativity and glamour in Halloween festivities.

Key West, Florida

KEY WEST, FLORIDA - OCTOBER 31: Locals and visitors alike enjoy Fantasy Fest on October 31, 2015 in Key West, Fl. This annual event features a two day street fair, and a parade on Saturday night.
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The Fantasy Fest in Key West is a flamboyant and lively Halloween celebration, known for its colorful costumes, vibrant parades, and an overall atmosphere of revelry. The tropical setting adds a unique twist to traditional Halloween festivities.

New York City, New York

New York , New York /USA - 10/31/2019 New York City Halloween Parade marching up 6th ave.
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The Village Halloween Parade in Greenwich Village is a spectacle like no other. With its massive scale, creative costumes, and diverse participants, it’s a quintessential New York City experience that captures the spirit of Halloween in a grand and inclusive manner.

Orlando, Florida

ORLANDO, FLORIDA - 17 OCT 2017. Halloween Horror Nights At Universal Studios
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Home to world-renowned theme parks, Orlando transforms into a Halloween wonderland during the fall season. Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios and other park events offer thrilling haunted attractions and immersive experiences for Halloween enthusiasts.

San Francisco, California

San Francisco, CA - Oct 22, 2022: Participants carving pumpkins at Senator Scott Wiener's Halloween Pumpkin Carving Event.
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San Francisco’s Halloween celebrations are diverse and lively. The Castro district hosts massive street parties with elaborate costumes, and the city offers haunted tours and events catering to a range of Halloween interests.

Transylvania County, North Carolina

Young People in Costumes Celebrating Halloween. Group of Young Happy Friends Wearing Halloween Costumes having Fun at Party in Nightclub by doing Scary faces. Celebration of Halloween
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Embracing its name with a touch of humor, Transylvania County offers a traditional Halloween experience. The area hosts Halloween events and haunted attractions, creating a spooky atmosphere for those seeking a classic and nostalgic celebration.

The Most Haunted Places in Each of the 50 U.S. States

Pennsylvania - Eastern State Penitentiary, Philadelphia
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From historic hotels and battlefields haunted by the spirits of the past to eerie asylums and abandoned prisons, the allegedly haunted places on this list have one thing in common: a long history of unexplained occurrences and chilling legends.

Read more: The Most Haunted Places in Each of the 50 U.S. States

14 of the Best Places to Celebrate Halloween Around the World

DUBLIN - OCTOBER 28: A group of partygoers dressed up on their way to a Fancy Dress Party to kick off Halloween on October 28, 2011 in Dublin
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Join us as we traverse the globe to discover the eerie allure of these 14 best places to celebrate Halloween, each promising an unforgettable and spooktacular experience.

Read more: 14 of the Best Places to Celebrate Halloween Around the World

Funny Halloween Costumes You Can Easily Buy Online (for the Whole Family!)

New York, New York - USA – October 23, 2021: A dog in costume is seen during the 31st Annual Tompkins Square Halloween Dog Parade in Tompkins Square Park in New York. (Photo: Gordon Donovan)
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There are TONS of great Halloween costumes you can buy online! Check out some of the funniest below.

Read more: Funny Halloween Costumes You Can Easily Buy Online (for the Whole Family!)

30+ DIY Halloween Costume Ideas for the Whole Family!

Waist up portrait of cute preschooler with DIY face paint wearing a butterfly halloween or carnival costume.
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I enlisted the help of fellow bloggers who have some AMAZING DIY Halloween costumes for the whole family – even your pets. There are SO many good ones for your kiddos as well! 

Read more: 30+ DIY Halloween Costume Ideas for the Whole Family!