Halloween comes only once a year, but, whether you’re taking the tots trick-or-treating or heading out for some 21-and-over festivities, Dallas has far too much going for it to limit the fun to just one night. As October comes to an end this year, Downtown Dallas, in particular, promises to be anything but a ghost town.
At Reunion Tower, kids 12 and under who arrive in costume for “Boo With a View” (10:30 a.m. – 9 p.m., Oct. 26 – 31) get half-price admission to the GeO-Deck. They’ll be invited to participate in Halloween-themed activities, enjoy special treats and, of course, snap some spooky selfies against the backdrop of Dallas’ stunning skyline.
Or go where the wild things are. The annual “Halloween Nights” at the Dallas Zoo runs Oct. 26 – 29 from 5 – 8 p.m. Kids can collect candy at 13 themed stations in Zoo North and get an after-hours peek at the animals. There will also be crafts, games, a bounce house and food trucks.
And calling all mad scientists: the Perot Museum of Nature and Science will host a “Snore and Explore – Spooktacular Sleepover” on Oct. 27. Kids between the ages of 6 – 14 should pack their sleeping bags and toothbrushes for a slumber party that includes a live science show, hands-on activities, a dance party and other fun.
Remaining in the Arts District, anyone with a rare appreciation for jack-o-lanterns owes themselves a visit to the Dallas Museum of Art before Oct. 31. Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama’s “All the Eternal Love I Have for the Pumpkins,” an unforgettable “infinity room” installation featuring a seemingly impossible number of painted pumpkins, has already proven quite popular. Purchase your tickets now.
Local police officers and firefighters will host a “Halloween Safe-tacular” for kids and pets at the Ronald Kirk Pedestrian Bridge on Oct. 28 starting at 6 p.m. Kids can check out a squad car and fire engine, play in a bounce house and create crafts. Afterward, the whole family can head over to nearby Trinity Groves for a meal — or a special sweet treat from either Cake Bar or Kate Weiser Chocolate.
For a more formal fright night, RSVP with the Dallas World Aquarium for a “Spooktacular Evening” on Oct. 28. The fundraising event, which benefits the non-profit Heroes, Cops and Kids, includes cocktails and a three-course dinner. The dress code is semi-formal for those not donning costumes, but prizes will be awarded to the best disguise.
Deep Ellum’s world-famous Dallas Comedy House always tempers the thrills and chills of the season with laughs. Those 18 and over can drop in on Friday, Oct. 27 for “Freddy: A Devilish Musical,” or the next evening for DCH’s annual “Improvised Horror Movie.” There’s even a “Family-Friendly Halloween Comedy Show” in the works for the afternoon of Oct. 28. Kids are welcome and invited to arrive in costume for a little early trick-or-treating.
Also in Deep Ellum, “threatre house and magikal event space” The Quixotic World will be turning everything upside down with their “Stranger Things Halloween Bash,” Friday, Oct. 27. Fans of Netflix’s breakout drama will be celebrating with food, drink, a little role-playing action and a playlist heavy on hits from the 80’s. It all culminates in a midnight premiere of season two’s first episode.
Finally, Dallas 48 will host a “Tower of Terror Halloween Party” on Oct. 28 at Tower Club, located on the 48th floor of Thanksgiving Tower. Enjoy drinks, appetizers and the musical stylings of a live DJ while vying for top prize in the costume contest.
What fun will you be scaring up in your neighborhood this autumn? How will you be treating yourself and your family to a unique Halloween experience? Connect with fellow supporters of Downtown Dallas’ continued revitalization on Facebook and Twitter and share your plans.