Halloween Fun with Prince William County Parks!

Halloween is just around the corner, making now the perfect time to start planning those fun Halloween activities for yourself and/or your family. Our Halloween line-up is stacked this year so we hope you’ll join us throughout October to celebrate “spooky season.” 

Family Pumpkin Carving Contest - Saturday, October 14 
Whether you consider yourself an expert pumpkin carver or a beginner, you’ll be sure to have a blast at our inaugural Family Pumpkin Carving Contest at Veterans Memorial Park. Start planning your scary, spooky, happy, funny and/or silly pumpkin designs now! Each family will receive carving utensils and one pumpkin to carve to submit for judging. All family members participating must pre-register for this event.

Murder at Rippon Lodge – Saturday, October 14
Just when everyone is enjoying a grand time at the party, something goes awry at Rippon Lodge. A cast of suspects, and one had murder on their agenda. Who did it? That is up to you to discover. Join us for this live production. Advanced ticket purchase required. For mature audiences only - 18 and older. Not appropriate for children.

October Celebration with Glow in the Dark Week Fitness Classes – October 23-27
Get ready for a fun week of Glow in the Dark Fitness Classes! Beginning Monday, October 23, we switch the lights off and turn the glow lights on! Participants are encouraged to wear white or bright colors then add tons of glow bracelets and necklaces to get into the spirit. Classes are free for passholders of Sharron Baucom Dale City Recreation Center and/or Chinn Aquatics & Fitness Center. $12 drop-in free for non-members. Check out all the dates and times here.

The Haunted Gro Trail - Thursday, October 26
Come join us at James Long Regional Park for a costume party, Halloween games and activities, and of course trick-or-treating all wrapped into our Adventure Trail experience, or as we call it “Haunted Gro Trail” for this special Halloween event. Come dressed up in your Halloween costume for an afternoon of spooky fun! Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Sign up here. 

Campfire Ghost Stories of Ben Lomond – Friday, October 27
Ben Lomond has a diverse and grim history as a Civil War hospital, a farm and a private home. Over the years, many local residents have claimed to see ghosts and other spooky happenings at the site. Is Ben Lomond haunted or not? Register to join us for an eerie evening around the campfire to hear some of the ghost stories associated with the historic site. Bring your own chair and flashlight. Ages 5+ are welcome, at parents discretion. Children age 6 and under are free.

Full Moon Hike - Saturday, October 28
Grab your flashlights and join our park naturalists for a slow-paced, VIP hike along the beautiful Neabsco Creek Boardwalk. You'll enjoy learning about the flora and fauna of the area, as well as some fascinating facts about the fully illuminated Harvest Moon. We'll finish our hike with a yummy smore by the firepit! Meet at the Neabsco Regional Park pavilion. Event may be canceled/rescheduled if there is inclement weather. Kids under 5 free. Spots are filling up fast so register today.

Spooky Shoot – Saturday, October 28
Want to learn some archery, or play yard darts or cornhole? Then join us at our Spooky Shoot event at Silver Lake Regional Park. Our USA Archery trained and certified instructors will take adults and children through instructions and tactics about how to nail the bullseye or even some pumpkins along the way! Feel free to come in costume if it does not prevent shooting safely. Score as a family and get a family prize. This is a family-oriented event with a fall theme. All equipment will be provided. 

Spirits of Brentsville Haunted History Trail – Saturday, October 28
In 1822, the small, unassuming town of Brentsville opened as the County Seat. For over 200 years, the town was the site of trials and triumphs. From trials, war and murder, to depression, pranks and more. The spirits of Brentsville have awakened and are eager to meet you. Participants will want to watch their backs as they take a walk through Brentsville’s most terrifying moments in history complete with ghost stories and surprises. Advanced tickets are recommended for space is limited. Ages 6+ are welcome, at parents discretion. Groups leave every 20 minutes. Tickets can be purchased in advance online or over the phone at 703-365-7895.

Haunted Mini Golf at Locust Shade Park – October 28 & 29
Enjoy a game of haunted mini golf at Locust Shade Park and admire the haunted Halloween decorations. Saturday and Sunday, October 28 and 29, 10 am – 6 pm. Pricing as follows:
Youth (3-16 yrs) $5.25
Adults (17-59 yrs) $6.00
Seniors (60 yrs+) $5.25
Groups of 10 or more, $4.50 each person. 
Children under 3 yrs old (playing with a paying adult) are free

Related links:

Fall Leisure  - Covering September through December 2023 programs, classes and events

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