Want to be Han Solo, Luke, Leia or even Chewie? Go for it. How about a roller disco king or queen? No problem. Swashbuckling pirate, hot mess wench or sexy siren? Even better. It's anything goes for Halloween.
This is one of the main reasons that Halloweenwill always give Christmas a run for the money for the most wonderful time of the year. Yes, Christmas is great for being around family, getting and giving gifts, but Halloween lets you be all you can be, all you've ever wanted to be, and top it all off with parties, awesomely themed cocktails and copious amounts of life-giving, soul-affirming candy.
Yes, candy. Seriously, live a little and indulge in those Gobstoppers, Nerds, Butterfingers, Bit-O-Honey, Tootsie Rolls, Jolly Ranchers and more.
Then hop on the treadmill for an extra 30 minutes on Nov. 1. You'll be fine.
Here are more than two dozen Halloween events to enjoy in Palm Beach County.
Fright Nights, South Florida Fairgrounds
This wildly popular event will feature three separate, brand-new haunts this year including "Edward Low," "Route 66 - The Slaughter," and "Cuckoo's Nest." Set in 1722, "Edward Low" focuses on the cruel pirate Captain Edward Low. Known for mass murder and mutilations, he was the sociopath of seas. This haunt will transport those brave enough to Low's favorite haunt Terceira to be hunted by his crazed crew through winding paths and moonlit beaches. You will definitely get your kicks and then some in the "Route 66 -The Slaughter" haunt as an innocent roadside town is ripped apart by a ruthless group of killers. Travelers pulling off the road expecting to find safe haven for the evening will step into a living nightmare with attackers hunting and tormenting everyone. Finally, the "Cuckoo's Nest" will offer some respite... not. Though the warden thinks he's restored order, patients begin vanishing from locked rooms without a trace, staff members disappear and the line between reality and madness begins to disappear.
The event is 6 to 11 p.m. (midnight on Saturdays and Sundays) Oct. 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 17, 22, 23, 24, 29 and 30. There are behind the scenes events as well on at 6, 7 and 8 p.m. on Oct. 7. General admission tickets purchased before Oct. 8 $38.50; after $48.50; BOGO Thursday tickets available from through Oct. 21 for $48.50. Information: southfloridafair.com/events
Howl-O-Ween Dogs' Day in the Garden, Mounts Botanical Garden
Dogs and dog owners are invited to dress up in their favorite costumes and enjoy a tail-wagging good time exploring the Garden during this third annual event. Held in conjunction with Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League, there will adoptable pets on site in case you're in need of a four-legged family member. Non-retractable leashes only, one dog per adult, rabies vaccination must be current.
The event is 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 11. 531 N. Military Trail, West Palm Beach. Adults $20; seniors, college students and military with ID $18; Mounts members free; Mounts members' dogs free; nonmember dogs $5. Information: mounts.org/events
Spookyville, South Florida Fairgrounds
This family friendly Halloween event at the South Florida Fairgrounds features trick-or-treating, costume contests, a petting zoo, live entertainment, and family photo opportunities. DJ Mark will be spinning great tunes each day of the event, and a balloon twister will be on hand giving kids their choice of a free balloon shape (not a bicycle). Costume parades will take place on Sundays, with food trucks and vendors rounding out the fun.
The event is 5 to 9 p.m. Fridays (Oct. 23, 30) and Saturdays (Oct. 17, 24, 31); and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sundays (Oct. 18, 25). 9067 Southern Blvd., West Palm Beach. Adults $9, children $13.50 from Oct. 1 to 16, adults $10, children $15 starting Oct. 17. Information: southfloridafair.com/spookyville
HallowMarine Celebration, Loggerhead Marinelife Center
Expanded to two days this year, this fun event will feature sustainable trick-or-treating, interactive displays, discovery shows, a junior vet lab, a costume competition, and visits with sea turtle patients. Guests can explore the center that is transformed for Halloween with decorations made from sustainable materials provided by Resource Depot and LMC’s conservation team.
The event is 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 17 and Sunday, Oct. 18. 14200 US 1, Juno Beach. Free. Information: marinelife.org/hallowmarine
Spook-tacular Halloween Show, The Gardens Mall
Families can enjoy an exciting, interactive presentation that will wow both children and parents alike as a 'mad scientist' conducts experiments along with plenty of hands-on, Halloween-inspired fun.
The event is 11 a.m. and noon Saturday, Oct. 17. The Gardens Mall, Grand Court, 3101 PGA Blvd., Palm Beach Gardens. Free. Information: thegardensmall.com
Halloween Spooktacular in Jupiter
This annual event at the Jupiter Community Center will be going all in for this most awesome holiday and will feature trick-or-treating, inflatables, food trucks, a live DJ, arts & crafts, a monster maze, a tot zone and more.
The event is 4 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 17. 200 Military Trail, Jupiter. Free. Information: jupiter.fl.us/651/Halloween
Haunting History at Woodlawn Cemetery, West Palm Beach
Under a nearly full autumn moon, the Historical Society of Palm Beach County offers one of its most talked-about experiences for Halloween. Now in its sixth year, this immersive after-dark walking tour brings Palm Beach County’s past to life with the real stories behind the headstones—tales of ambition, scandal, tragedy, and triumph from the pioneers who shaped the region. Park inside cemetery gates on the north side and bring a flashlight, insect repellent, and water.
The event is 7 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 22 and Friday, Oct. 23. 1301 S. Dixie Highway, West Palm Beach. HSPBC members $30; nonmembers $40. Registration required. Information: pbchistory.org/events
15th Annual House of the Haunted Lodge, The Jupiter Elks
This haunted house will feature 13 "Fright Spaces" each designed by participating groups that will all form one giant haunted maze. Each a creative mash-up of scary, creepy, funny, shocking and the unexpected, they will be voted on to see which is the best. First place is $500, second place $250 and third place is $100.
The event is 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, Oct. 23 and Saturday, Oct. 24. 10070 W. Indiantown Road, Jupiter. See website for ticket prices. Information: jupiterelks.org
Kids Club Spooky Soirée, The Gardens Mall
Wear a costume to the Grand Court and enjoy special offers and treats from participating stores. Don't miss the special performance from the mischievous, goofy goblin characters, Boogah & Hoogah, over from their nearby haunted house.
The event is noon to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 24. The Gardens Mall, Grand Court, 3101 PGA Blvd., Palm Beach Gardens. Free. Information: thegardensmall.com
The Park's 3rd Annual Fall Festival, West Palm Beach
Hosted by The Park, West Palm Beach's world-class golf course, this family friendly Halloween event offers families a chance to enjoy an afternoon outdoors and will feature pony rides, bounce houses, a pumpkin painting contest, and seasonal treats. Fall-themed snacks and drinks will be available for purchase.
The event is noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 24. 7301 Georgia Ave., West Palm Beach. Free. Information: theparkwestpalm.com
Fall Fest, CityPlace
Held at the popular West Palm Beach shopping and dining destination, this two-day event by Related Ross and Florida Power and Light will feature pumpkin picking, trick-or-treating, live music, a beer garden by Moody Tongue, cookie decorating at Maman, an outdoor movie night and programming for the whole family, including four-legged guests (pooch parade and costume pawty).
The event is 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 24 and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 25. 700 S. Rosemary Ave., West Palm Beach. Free. Information: cityplacefallfest.splashthat.com
Bootanical Garden Bash, Mounts Botanical Garden
This festive event will feature spooky giant mazes, games, face painting, a wicked plant scavenger hunt, children’s author Veronica Green, and the chance to explore Mounts’ 20-acre tropical oasis, decorated for the season. There will also be an interactive reptile encounter, live music by DJ Bobby G, food and sweet vendors and more.
The event is 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 24 and Sunday, Oct. 25. 531 N. Military Trail, West Palm Beach. Adults $20; seniors, college students and military with ID $18; Mounts members free; children 6 and younger free. Information: mounts.org/events
15th Annual Witches of Delray Ride, Delray Beach
See hundreds of costumed witches storm the streets of downtown Delray Beach on their decorated bicycles (brooms) during this annual event that raises money for Achievement Centers for Children & Families. If you're hoping for a glimpse of this comely coven of wheeled witches, they will set out from Delray Beach City Hall, travel north on NW First Ave., east on on NW Third St., south on N. Swinton Ave., east on Atlantic Ave. to US 1, head back west on Atlantic Ave., north on NE Second Ave. to NE Third St. around the round-about and back on NE Third St. to Old School Square. Witches must be at least 16 years old and register to ride.
The event is 8 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 24. Delray Beach City Hall, 100 NW First Ave., Delray Beach. Free. Information: downtowndelraybeach.com/do/halloween
Trick-or-Treating on the Avenue, Delray Beach
Bring the little ones to downtown Delray Beach for an afternoon of treats, cool costumes, and plenty of Halloween fun. Come dressed to impress and stroll the avenue while trick-or-treating with participating merchants.
The event is 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 24. Swinton Avenue to Federal on Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach. Information: downtowndelraybeach.com
Palm Beach Gardens Fall Festival, The Gardens North County District Park
Enjoy live entertainment, DJ music and dancing, delicious eats from food trucks, inflatables, bounce houses, slides, and more surprises around every corner. Wear a costume and bring a treat bag to score tons of candy during this evening packed with trick-or-treating and plenty of fun.
The event is 4 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 24. 5101 117th Court N., Palm Beach Gardens. Free. Information: pbgfl.gov/743/Fall-Festival
Howl-O-Ween, Countess de Hoernle Park
Designed for those beloved furry friends and their humans, this event will feature the Howl-O-Weener dog race, the Howl-O-Ween costume contest, the 'sit, stay, chill' lounge, a hydration station, photo booth and more. Bring that four-legged friend and enjoy plenty of good-natured canine chaos.
The event is 9 a.m. to noon, Saturday, Oct. 24. 1000 Spanish River Blvd., Boca Raton. Free. Information: myboca.us/3016/Howl-O-Ween
Feathers, Fangs, Fur, & FUN!, Busch Wildlife Sanctuary
Answer the call of the wild and enjoy Halloween festivities at the sanctuary that will include trick-or-treat along the nature trails, Tiny Tales Storytime, Conservation Conversation and more
The event is 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 25. 17885 Rocky Pines, Jupiter. Free. Information: buschwildlife.org
Cox Science Center and Aquarium's Spooky Science Celebrations, West Palm Beach
Celebrate Halloween at the center with daily hands-on crafts, live science experiments, spooky decorations, candy stations, and fun activities for the whole family.
The event is Wednesday, Oct. 28 to Saturday, Oct. 31. 4801 Dreher Trail N., West Palm Beach. The center is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Adults $26, ages 3 to 12 $22, ages 13 to 17 $24, seniors $24, members free. Information: coxsciencecenter.org
Clematis by Fright, West Palm Beach Great Lawn
This fantastic, frightful twist on Clematis by Night melds the event with Halloween and will once again feature 'trick-or-trunking,' hayrides, inflatable games and much more. Known for bringing out the best in lovers of this spooky holiday, guests are encouraged to dress to impress in their Halloween best. Keeping the funky beat and the 'soul for getting down' will Uncle Morty's Rhythm Cream. This 10-piece band features four-part harmonies, a full horn section and a set list that includes contemporary artists like Bruno Mars, Harry Styles, and Meghan Trainor, as well as classics by Stevie Wonder; Earth, Wind & Fire; the Doobie Brothers; and The Temptations.
The event is 6 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 29. 100 N. Clematis St., West Palm Beach. Free. Information: wpb.org
Witchy Burlesque Halloween Show, Lake Worth Beach
Held at Pomona in downtown Lake Worth Beach, this 21 and up event is part of the restaurant's Goosebumps Halloween Pop-up and will feature tableside dances with some seriously sweet beats courtesy of DJ Abyssal.
The event is 8 to 11 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 29. 717 Lake Ave., Lake Worth Beach. Free. Information: pomonakitchen.com
Boo-na-na Boat Disco Halloween Party, Boynton Beach
This event at the Banana Boat kicks off with happy hour from 3 to 7 p.m. Use that liquid courage to cut a rug as DJ Bubble Flow spins one hit after another from 7 to 11 p.m. There will be drink specials featuring Weber Ranch Vodka, a costume contest with cash and gift card prizes for first, second and third place, raffles and more.
The event kicks off at 3 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 30. 739 E. Ocean Ave., Boynton Beach. Information: bananaboatboynton.com
Pig Beach BBQ, West Palm Beach
This Dixie corridor destination will be offering up a fun time with their trunk-or-treat event. It will feature 10 vehicles decked out for Halloween offering sweet treats for the holiday as well as a contest to see which vehicle was the best decorated. First place is $200 gift card, second is a $100 gift card and third is a $50 gift card. Bring the kids, the costumes and a sweet tooth.
The event is 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 30. 2400 S. Dixie Highway, West Palm Beach. Free. Information: instagram.com/pigbeach pigbeachbbq.getbento.com/location
Avocado Cantina, Palm Beach Gardens
This north county hot spot is raising the dead — and the drinks — for Cantina de los Muertos, a seductive, high-energy Halloween fiesta where the night comes alive. Guests are invited to dress to impress in their costumes, grab their favorite people and turn up the heat with music, dancing, fiery cocktails and festive food specials. Live music kicks off at 8 p.m. with a performance by the Mojito Latin Band, bringing high-energy Latin beats and keeping partygoers on the dance floor.
The event is 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 30. 11701 Lake Victoria Gardens Ave., Palm Beach Gardens. Free. Reservations encouraged. Information: avocadocantina.com
Art After Dark/Halloween, Norton Museum of Art
Making this popular event even more fun, this edition of Art After Dark will feature docent-led tours and guided art projects, Halloween bingo, a costume contest (dress to impress!) and a screening of the classic film "Beetlejuice" featuring Michael Keaton, Winona Ryder, Alec Baldwin and the late, great Catherine O'Hara.
The event 5 to 10 p.m. Friday, Oct. 30. 1450 S. Dixie Highway, West Palm Beach. Adults and seniors $10, students $5. Information: norton.org
Pink Steak, West Palm Beach
Pink Steak will turns up the heat by transforming into a sultry Moulin Rouge Cabaret Party, conjuring up Parisian decadence, seductive sounds and after-dark energy. Guests are invited to dress for the occasion and step into a world of cabaret-inspired entertainment, seductive style, cocktails and music. Think red-hot energy, glamorous looks, champagne-fueled celebrations and a soundtrack designed by DJ German Garcia and DJ Julz, spinning an irresistible mix of beats throughout the evening.
The event is 9 p.m. Friday, Oct. 30. 2777 S. Dixie Highway, West Palm Beach. Dinner reservations required. Information: pinksteak.com
Little Scream Truck-or-Treat, Lake Worth Beach
Held at Bryant Park along the Intracoastal Waterway, this annual event will provide a spook-tacular evening. There will be a costume contest with different categories including most creative/original, scariest, funniest, best character costume and best pet costume; trunk-or-treating with numerous decorated vehicles handing out candy; food trucks; craft vendors and a Kid Zone complete with face painting, arts & crafts and more. Be sure to dress your Halloween best!
The event is 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Oct. 30. Lake Avenue and Golfview, Lake Worth Beach. Information: lakeworthbeachfl.gov
West Palm Cowboy Club, West Palm Beach
Halloween weekend kicks off at West Palm Cowboy Club on Friday with a haunted honky-tonk and a twisted carnival setting for a night of live music, drinks and dancing that starts with a band and continues through late-night DJ sets. Come dressed as cowboys, carnies or outlaws. On Saturday, guest will step into "Welcome to the Freakshow" featuring fire, roaming performers, circus acts, LED juggling, a burlesque-style circus performance, and additional entertainment well past midnight.
The event is Friday, Oct. 30 and Saturday, Oct. 31. 200 Clematis St., West Palm Beach. Open Bar tickets for Friday night $55. Information: westpalmcowboyclub.com
Geronimo Tequila Bar and Southwest Grill, Delray Beach
This Halloween/Dias de los Muertos event will feature fire dancer Madison, a DJ at 10 p.m. and a costume contest with the winner announced at 12:30 a.m. Come dressed to impress. Geronimo Tequila Bar and Southwest Grill honors the distinctive cuisine, culture and history of Santa Fe, New Mexico, offering authentic flavors, aromas, spices and recipes from the region.
The event kicks off at 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 31. 105 E. Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach. Information: geronimobarandgrill.com
The Belgrove After Dark: A Halloween Affair, The Belgrove Resort & Spa
Held in the resort's Latitude Ballroom, guests will enjoy a complimentary welcome cocktail; Tarot card readings; DJ Jason keeping the sweet, haunting beats; a 'Best Dressed' costume competition with prizes; an open bar and elevated Halloween buffet complete with a 'Graveyard Carving Station,' 'Witch's Seafood Station,' 'Werewolf's Crepe Station' and more. There will also be a Don Julio 'Day of the Dead Station,' featuring passed specialty cocktails, samples, festive merchandise and takeaways.
The event is 8 p.m. to midnight Saturday, Oct. 31. 2020 Banyan Resort Way, West Palm Beach. $99. Information: 561-766-8100; thebelgrove.com eventbrite.com/e/the-belgrove
Topside at the Beacon's "Area 561" party, Jupiter
An 'Out-of-This-World' Halloween celebration, this alien-themed party will feature specialty cocktails, a costume contest, DJs spinning all night long, and plenty of Halloween surprises. The costume contest will include a first place prize of dinner for two at The Beacon. Guests are encouraged to get creative and show off their best Halloween looks. Guests age 21 and older are invited to celebrate the holiday with an evening of extraterrestrial fun.
The event is 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 31. 1107 Love St., Jupiter. Free. Information: topsidejupiter.com
A Haunting at Meat Market, Boca Raton
Dinner, drinks, a live DJ and a night that bites back awaits at Meat Market on Halloween. Guests are encouraged to get into the spirit and dress in their Halloween best.
The event is 6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 31. 2000 NW 19th St., Boca Raton. Reservations strongly encouraged. Information: meatmarket.net/news-item/halloween
"Back to Bedrock: Flintstones Stone Age Celebration," Good Night John Boy
Delray Beach's retro-inspired 70s and disco nightlife hotspot will provide a serious 'yabba dabba doo time' with a full-on nostalgic, Flintstones-themed Halloween soirée. Don't miss the chance to rock your best Fred, Wilma, Barney, Betty, Pebbles, Bamm-Bamm or even Dino costume and enjoy themed cocktails like the Fruity Pebbles Shot (Milk and cereal combination shot reminiscent of a childhood favorite), the Dino-Sour (Sweet and sour berry lemonade), and Yabba-Dabba Disco (Flintstones orange sherbet inspired creamsicle cocktail).
The event is 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 31. 33 SE Third Ave., Delray Beach. Reservations strongly encouraged. Information: goodnightjb.com/delraybeach
Sailfish Marina Resort, Palm Beach Shores
Celebrate Halloween at this iconic waterfront resort's tiki bar and enjoy live music, specialty cocktails and great food. Make sure to dress to impress for the costume contest.
The event is 6 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 31. 98 Lake Drive, Palm Beach Shores. Free. Information: sailfishmarina.com
Eddie Ritz is a journalist at The Palm Beach Post, part of the USA TODAY Florida Network. You can reach him at eritz@pbpost.com. Help support our journalism. Subscribe today.
This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Mixed with varying fear-to-fun ratios, Halloween events abound in PBC
