New York City is one of the world’s greatest cities. It’s a melting pot recognized for its very diverse population, distinct neighborhoods, and top-notch restaurants. It is also a cultural hub and a great place to celebrate Halloween.
Like everything else in the Big Apple, New York does Halloween big and pulls out all the stops for some scary and ghoulish things to do. It’s the city that never sleeps. You’ll want to stay up all night to ensure you don’t miss any of New York’s Halloween festivities.
Parades and Outdoor Halloween Things to Do in New York City
New York is known as a walking city, making it great to experience a parade. Wear your comfortable shoes for the Halloween season and start with the world-renowned Village Halloween Parade. This exciting event occurs on Halloween, October 31, 2024, and begins at 7:00 pm. The parade is known as “The nation’s most wildly creative public participatory event in the greatest city in the world!” according to their website. Grab a great spot and watch, or march and participate in this year’s 51st parade. You will see giant puppets, over 50 bands, dancers, artists, and countless New Yorkers strutting their costumes.
Head to New York Botanical Garden for Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas Light Trail. For only nine weeks, from September 27 through November 30, 2024, you can catch your favorite characters from the movie as you walk the Botanical Garden’s grounds. “You’ll marvel at this first-ever spectacle that illuminates the art of the classic film against a backdrop of botanical beauty—a must-see New York event for anyone who loves all things seasonal, festive, and fun.” This spectacular experience is up to one hour and is excellent for children five and older.
Let’s Get Spooky in New York City
What do Jimmy Fallon and Halloween have in common? Check out Jimmy Fallon’s Tonightmares and discover what happens in the Tonight Show host’s head. It’s frightening and unique, much like a haunted house-type of adventure. You and your friends and family will meet up with some ghoulish characters, from a mad scientist to a werewolf and other scary characters. This event runs on select nights from September 20 through October 31, 2024. Please note that it is not recommended for children under 14. No costumes or masks are allowed.
Hit the streets for the guided NYC Gangsters and Ghosts Tour. These historically based tours will immerse you in the storied and criminal history of New York City. You’ll be guided through neighborhoods like Five Points, Chinatown, Little Italy, and the haunted mansions from the West Village to Washington Square Park. Learn all about the gangsters of the 1920s and 30s, famous murders of the time, the top hotels, and speakeasies.
Take Halloween Celebrations to the Water in the Big Apple with City Cruises
The Halloween New York Alive After Five Cruise brings this haunted holiday to the water. This two-hour cruise on the Hudson River is a different Halloween experience and is suitable for tourists and New Yorkers alike. Costumes are encouraged, so think about how to wow the crew and guests when you first step onboard. While you’re celebrating Halloween, the New York City skyline will be your backdrop for the night. Enjoy the city views and festive drinks, tasty food choices, and a live DJ spinning your favorite tunes so you can get out and shake it on the dance floor.
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If lunch and autumn leaves are more your style, take the New York Fall Foliage Lunch Cruise for three hours of fun on the Hudson River. You and your friends will experience the magic of fall as we take the scenic route past the George Washington Bridge. Your eyes will set sights on the colorful changing leaves from our expansive open-air rooftop deck. Other sights include The Cloisters, Fort Washington Park, and La Marina. Enjoy a packed lunch buffet menu, cider, pumpkin pie, and creative cocktails. Dance to the tunes of our live DJ, or sit back and take in the fall colors.
October is not just for Halloween. The New York Alive After Five Oktoberfest cruises from September 21 through October 27, 2024. This cruise has beer, giant pretzels, and skyline views you don’t want to miss. This two-hour experience is for all ages and features a rooftop deck with a live DJ and deck games. Oktoberfest-themed décor goes hand in hand with the perfect backdrop for your photos. You will see the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Brooklyn Bridge, and the Manhattan skyline. It’s the best place to be this time of year.
Spend Halloween in the City that Never Sleeps, NYC!
From Halloween to Oktoberfest, City Cruises has everything you want for a grand time on the water in New York City. Whether you wish to experience Halloween in costume on the water, take in the colorful leaves of Autumn, or savor some beer for Oktoberfest, City Cruises has the best options for fun and views you will never forget. Bring your friends and family and come aboard for the time of your life. We will be waiting to see you.