Halloween is almost here, and if you’re looking to get in the spirit, The Pace Press has some recommendations for you! Let this be your guide to some Halloween events going on throughout the city, and be sure to explore them safely. 

New York City’s 49th Annual Village Halloween Parade

Your first stop is at NYC’s Village Halloween Parade on Sixth Ave and Canal St. The event is free and the only requirement to participate is that you’re in costume, however, if dressing up isn’t your thing, you can also just be a spectator of the parade. If you want to be in the special theme section or skip the line, it costs $25 a ticket. The event starts on Monday, Oct. 31 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., but it’s recommended you come around 6:30 p.m. if you plan to participate. Spectrum News NY1 will present this parade live at 8 p.m. on the day of Halloween as well. This is great if you want more of a celebratory experience on Halloween.

The Halloween Pumpkin Flotilla in Central Park

Another way to celebrate is The Halloween Pumpkin Flotilla, located at the Harlem Meer in Central Park. The activity requires you to bring in your own homemade jack-o’-lantern so you can display it on the water with 99 other jack-o’-lanterns. On Oct. 26 they will provide free decorations and lights to assure your pumpkin sails, so be sure to read up about the Flotilla before Oct. 26 to understand their guidelines. This free event is from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Oct. 27. Everyone is welcome to watch pumpkins sail and bob on the water, even if you don’t donate one. 

Blood Manor

Now if you’re feeling like taking a risk and scaring yourself, The Pace Press recommends the Blood Manor. This attraction is located at 359 Broadway and to not spoil the fun, the details on it are purposely left out–just know that the actors make it their mission to terrify you. It would be best to find the humor in this experience, so you don’t get paralyzed walking through the passage. This would be a great activity for you if you’re looking to try something new and thrilling. Reservations cost $45.64 per person and are available until Nov. 5.

Boo at the Zoo

Our final stop is located at 2300 Southern Blvd, where The Bronx Zoo will be hosting several seasonal activities for people of all ages. On Halloween, they will have a parade, candy trails, crafts, pumpkin carving demos and more. One reservation for an adult costs $41.95, children’s tickets are $31.95 and senior tickets are $36.95. If you plan to have family in town, this would be the most ideal event to attend. Most Boo at the Zoo activities are included once you purchase tickets for the zoo.