As the leaves turn and the air chills, Kansas City comes alive with Halloween spirit.
From family-friendly festivities to spine-chilling haunted houses, Kansas City offers a variety of events to celebrate this spooky season. Whether you're a local, visitor, thrill-seeker, or parent with little ghouls, there's something for everyone.
Family-Friendly Halloween Fun
Halloween in Kansas City is a treat for the whole family. The city offers a variety of events that are perfect for kids and adults alike. From zoo events to enchanting forests, there's something for everyone.
One highlight is the Trick or Treat Off the Street event at the Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop and Farm in Olathe. Come dressed in your favorite Halloween costume and experience 1860s history, too! Activities include a horse-drawn hay wagon ride, games, crafts, and candy stations.
Another popular event is the Enchanted Forest at the George Owens Nature Park in Independence. This non-scary event is perfect for young children. It features a variety of fun activities, including pumpkin decorating and storytelling.
Don't forget about Boo at the Zoo at the Kansas City Zoo! This family-oriented event offers a variety of activities, including trick-or-treating, pedal tractors, a pint-sized hay maze, and more. It's a great way to celebrate Halloween with the whole family.
Finally, no Halloween would be complete without a visit to a pumpkin patch or corn maze. Kansas City has several choices, including Carolyn's Country Cousins in Liberty and the Louisburg Cider Mill. It's a great way to enjoy the fall weather and pick out the perfect pumpkin.
Thrills and Chills: Haunted Houses and Scary Attractions
For those who love a good scare, Kansas City has plenty to offer. The city has several haunted houses and scary attractions that will thrill you.
The West Bottoms Haunted Houses are a must-visit for any thrill-seeker. These haunted houses are known for their elaborate sets and terrifying actors.
Two of the scariest haunted houses in the West Bottoms are The Beast and The Edge of Hell.
These haunted houses usually open in late September and run through Halloween. Check their websites for more information.
The Ghosts & Gangsters Tour takes you through Kansas City's haunted history. You'll visit haunted buildings known for their paranormal activity and learn about the city's darker history, including gangsters, bootleggers, celebrities, and more.
The tour usually runs on weekends in October. Be sure to check their website for more details.
Halloween Events for Adults
Halloween isn't just for kids in Kansas City. Plenty of adult-oriented events offer a more sophisticated celebration of the spooky season.
Belvoir Winery's Oddities of the Odd Fellows 1900 Halloween Event is an excellent option for those who enjoy a good ghost story with their wine. You'll return to the mysterious world of the Odd Fellows, featuring a fascinating collection of historical items.
For a more social experience, consider joining one of the many Halloween-themed bar crawls in the city, including the Halloween Zombie Crawl, stopping at 10+ Kansas City bars and nightclubs with one all-access pass.
Cultural and Community Halloween Celebrations
Kansas City loves to celebrate together. Halloween is no exception, with various cultural and community events throughout the city.
The Independence Chamber of Commerce hosts the longest-running Halloween parade in the area, held each year on the Saturday before Halloween. The parade floats include school marching bands, community organizations, dance studios, fire trucks and other emergency vehicles, tractors, classic cars, and clever costumes. Check the parade's website for more information on this year's event.
On Saturday, October 26th, you can participate in the Spooky Sprint 5K/10K and half marathon in Lee's Summit. This Halloween-themed event will feature great swag, race medals and awards, delicious treats, and an after-party with a costume contest and live DJ.
Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Halloween
Halloween in Kansas City is a time of fun and excitement. However, it's important to remember safety. Always check event details, including dates, times, and special requirements.
Remember to check the weather forecast if you're attending outdoor events. Dress appropriately to stay comfortable. Ensure that those in costume are safe and visible.
Lastly, remember to respect the community. Kansas City takes pride in its Halloween celebrations. Let's keep it enjoyable for everyone by following rules and being considerate of others.
