8 Unique Halloween Events
Kathryn Tucker Windham Ghost Walk
Thomasville, Alabama
October 19
Hay rides and costumed vignettes of ghost stories in honor of Alabama’s Storyteller Kathryn Tucker Windham in Downtown Thomasville’s Historic District homes make up this annual event. Windham is best remembered for her stories about Jeffery, a ghost who took up residence in her house in Selma, but her book “13 Alabama Ghosts and Jeffrey” also includes tales of Cahaba, Gaineswood, Huntingdon College and other local legends. A costume contest, carnival, food and live music are also part of the event, starting at 6 p.m.
Underwater Pumpkin Carving Contest
Key Largo, Florida
October 19
This event is perfect for anyone who wants to take advantage of the warm weather and clear water of the Florida Keys. Early Saturday morning, divers will meet at mile-marker 104.5 to begin the 16th annual Underwater Pumpkin Carving Contest, equipped with only dive knives and scuba gear. Judges from the Amoray Dive Resort will reward three winning pumpkin artists with prizes, including a dive trip for two. Past pumpkin sculptures have included everything from traditional jack-o-lantern carvings to political figures. Divers interested in competing should contact Amoray Dive Resort to register.
Halloween in the Hollow
Bentonville, Arkansas
October 25
Come in costume and ready to celebrate at ArtInfusion’s annual event. Hosted at Crystal Bridges Museum, Halloween in the Hollow will have music by Randall Shreve and the Slideshow, food, dancing and a haunted gallery tour. Guests will also be able to participate in a costume contest with prizes, but the ghoulish gala doesn’t end there. An after-party is being hosted at 21c Museum Hotel, with taxicab accommodations so that everyone makes it home from this frightening frolic safely. Tickets are $25.
Beanstalk Haunted Zipline
Morganton, North Carolina
October 25-26
The Beanstalk Journey Zip Line Tours take guests from tree house to tree house, at some points as high as 50 feet, with beautiful views from every angle. But this Halloween, the zipline will travel from scare to scare as you zip through the darkness. Those afraid to zip through the sky with everyone else shouldn’t be put off, because you can still enjoy the views with friends and family from the trails below. There are three tours each night, but space is limited, so make reservations by calling 828-430-3440.
“Haunted Lafayette” Summons Spirits
Lafayette, Louisiana
October 26
“Haunted Lafayette,” a new book by resident Cheré Dastugue Coen, takes readers on an eerie ghost tour of Lafayette, Louisiana, covering everything from ghosts of the Civil War to pirates and even French bayou legends. History and ghost story lovers can unite from noon to 1 p.m. at Barnes and Noble for a book signing with Coen and Camilla Hunt Cole, author of the paranormal novel “Long Shadows.” Coen will also be joined by mediums and a traiteur later in the afternoon, from 2-4 p.m., at Little Big Cup in Arnaudville.
Day of the Dead Festival
Atlanta, Georgia
October 27
Held in collaboration with the Instituto de Mexico and the Mexican Consulate, this full day of cultural exploration introduces visitors of all ages to this ancient festival rooted in Mexican heritage that serves as a way for families to remember their deceased loved ones while celebrating their children and the continuity of life. Brilliant colors, storytelling, elaborately decorated altars designed to honor lost family and friends, authentic Mexican food, music and a variety of performances are highlights of this annual celebration at the Atlanta History Center.
Haunted House Pop-Up Dinner
Baton Rouge, Louisiana
October 30
Chefs Jay Ducote and Chris Wadsworth are hosting a Haunted House Pop-Up dinner at the Stockade Bed and Breakfast in Baton Rouge, a filming site for HBO’s “True Blood.” Louisiana foodies will love this one of a kind, 13-course Halloween party and are encouraged to come dressed in costume. Tickets are $75, and guests are welcome to spend the night when they purchase the special event package that includes admission for two and a guest room.
Haunted History Tour
Athens, Georgia
October 30-31
Folklore and history come alive beneath the Greek columns and magnolias of the Classic City this Halloween on the Athens Heritage Walk Haunted History Tour. On this two-hour tour of downtown Athens and UGA’s North Campus, you will hear tales of spirits, hauntings, superstitions, mysteries, murders, suicide and other legends. Both tours start at 7:30 p.m., and tickets are $15.
