Boo! Nine Seasonally spooky experiences Up North

Halloween events for all ages

By Ellen Miller | Oct. 24, 2026

Whether you’re someone who starts planning their Halloween costume or decor starting Nov. 1 for next year or just someone who appreciates a crisp, fall day, there’s a Halloween event for you. Scope out our roundup of nine events happening locally, and be sure to check our Dates section and your local chamber or tourism event website, as there are way more trick-or-treat and trunk-or-treat events than we can include here!

1. Dracula: A Feminist Revenge Fantasy, Really
Oct. 24, 7pm | Oct. 25, 2pm
This darkly comic drama puts a modern spin on the bloodthirsty tale of Dracula, “driving a stake through the heart of toxic masculinity,” per the show description. Actors from the Cadillac Footliters Theatre will stage performances at the CAPS Performing Arts Auditorium at Cadillac High School. Tickets are $14 online and $15 at the door. cadillacfootliters.com

2. Screams in the Dark
Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays through Nov. 1
Find a classic haunted house experience in Kalkaska, where the horrors of Screams in the Dark await! This year’s theme is Blackwood Hollow, where you can explore the terrifying Blackwood Manor, visit the Midway of Madness, wander through the clown-filled Pandemonium, or explore the woods along the Trail of the Lost. Tickets and more info at evernighthaunt.com.

3. A Night with Edgar Allen Poe
Oct. 30, 4-6pm
Step into the mysterious world of Edgar Allan Poe! Join the Cadillac Wexford Public Library for dramatic readings of some of Poe’s most famous poems while enjoying themed mocktails inspired by his classic works. This spooky and fun evening is perfect for those who enjoy gothic stories, poetry, and a touch of mystery. Gothic attire is encouraged. Space is limited and sign up is required: call (231) 775-6541 or email teens@cadillaclibrary.org or visit the Cadillac branch's information desk. cadillaclibrary.org

4. Thriller Night at Jacob’s Farm in TC
Oct. 30, 7-9pm
Prepare for a scare: paid actors in Halloween costumes hide themselves in the corn and make this maze one you really don’t want to get lost in! There may be walk-in tickets available, but due to this event’s popularity, it is strongly recommended that you secure your spot ahead of time. Common sense is advised when considering children of a certain age. jacobsfarmtc.com/thriller-night

5. Mock Tours at the Dennos
Oct. 30, 7pm or 9:30pm
One of our favorite Halloween traditions is when the Dennos Museum Center in Traverse City goes improv! Join Full Tilt Comedy—in costume, of course—as they pose as fictional docents to reimagine the museum through the eyes of ghosts, ghouls, and “the hilariously undead.” Tickets are $20-$25 for the two showtimes above. dennosmuseum.org

6. Freebie BoOok Fair
Oct. 31, 12-2pm
Join the Manistee County Library for a book fair—like the Scholastic ones that happen in elementary school, but for all ages! All the books are free, and you’ll help give homes to gently used library books. Come “shop” the aisles in the meeting room, and make sure to bring a tote to take home your finds. manisteelibrary.org

7. 18th Annual Zombie 5K Run
Oct. 31, 9am
The Traverse City Zombie Run is a Halloween staple, and organizers say “over the years, we’ve seen zombies from all walks of life, or should we say death.” Right Brain Brewery will be hosting the run; afterward, stick around for the medal ceremony, costume prizes, music, post-race refreshments, and zombie socializing. Be sure to register by Oct. 30! tczombierun.com

8. Downtown Petoskey Trick or Treat
Oct. 31, 10am- 12pm
Attention all witches, goblins, and ghouls! This epic trick-or-treating adventure through the downtown stores will kick off with a costume parade at 10am, starting from Central Elementary and marching down Howard Street to Mitchell Street in Downtown Petoskey. The Wolfshäger Hexenbrut Witches of Sault Ste Marie will also be performing at 10am.
petoskeychamber.com

9. Rocky Horror Picture Show Halloween Party at TC Whiskey
Oct. 31, 7-11pm
Whether you’re a longtime Rocky Horror fan or just looking for a wickedly fun Halloween party, grab your fishnets, costumes, and friends and join Traverse City Whiskey Co. The party includes a costume lookalike contest, dj, spooky cocktails, and, of course, The Rocky Horror Picture Show on the big screen. Costumes are encouraged.