Abundanance of Orange Pumpkins by Tom Fisk is licensed with Pexels
Halloween in Tacoma is far more than haunted houses and frights. For families seeking safe, fun, and memorable celebrations, several events offer a mix of costumes, candy, crafts, and community spirit. Here are five standout options to check out this year:
Zoo Boo at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium
Dates: October 18–19, 2025, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Where: Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium
What to Expect:
Zoo Boo blends Halloween excitement with animal fun—ideal for families wanting a lighthearted experience. Kids in costume can enjoy a costume parade, candy at trick‑or‑treat stations, special pumpkin enrichments for the animals (yes, the animals get in on the fun!), and even underwater pumpkin carving demos.
Because the event is included with regular zoo admission (and free for zoo members), it’s accessible and well suited for younger children and animal lovers alike.
Make sure to arrive early to catch the costume parade and secure good vantage points. Check the zoo’s website for any updates to timing or member discounts.
Harvest Fest & Boo Bash (People’s Center)
Date: Thursday, October 31, 2025 • 4:00 PM onward
Where: People’s Community Center, Tacoma
What to Expect:
Celebrate Halloween evening in a safe, community atmosphere. The Harvest Fest / Boo Bash at People’s Center offers:
- Open swim (kids must be accompanied by an adult)
- Halloween-themed pool games and decorations
- Safe trick-or-treating
- Family-friendly activities (arts & crafts, etc.)
Admission is free and pre‑registration isn’t required. This is a great option if you want fun indoors in case of rainy weather.
Tacoma Boozaar
Date: (Check for upcoming October date)
Where: 3025 S Union Ave, Tacoma
What to Expect:
Tacoma Boozaar is a festive daytime market + trick-or-treating event. Children and families can:
- Trick-or-treat at local vendor booths
- Enjoy free face painting, pumpkin painting, and a costume contest
- Grab food, shop local artisans, and soak up the seasonal spirit
Admission is free, and parking is offered on site. It’s a low-stress, daytime celebration ideal for little ones or families who prefer no nighttime activity.
Downtown Tacoma Trick or Treat (Antique Row)
Date: October 31 (4:00–6:00 PM)
Where: Antique Row, Broadway between 7th & 9th Streets, Downtown Tacoma
What to Expect:
Dress the kids, put on your walking shoes, and head to Antique Row in downtown Tacoma for an evening of shop-to-shop trick-or-treating. Dozens of local businesses in the Antique Row district hand out candy, creating a classic and community-driven Halloween stroll.
This event is perfect for families wanting to combine Halloween fun with a downtown outing; grab a treat, peek into shops, and enjoy the festive vibe.
Tacoma Halloween Parade & Street Fair
Date: October 18, 2025 (Parade starts ~6:00 PM)
Where: McKinley Business District (and surrounding streets)
What to Expect:
Tacoma’s Halloween Parade + Street Fair has become a marquee event for all ages in the region. According to the Pierce County Halloween guide, this year’s parade runs through the Proctor / McKinley corridor (26th–28th) from 4:00 PM, with the parade launching at 7:00 PM.
You’ll find:
- Spooky street fair before the parade (vendors, entertainment, food)
- Floats, marching groups, glowing costumes, and creative displays
- A festive, walkable atmosphere suitable for kids, strollers, and families
Bring a blanket or chairs to line the parade route early. The street fair begins well before the parade, so get there in advance to enjoy the pre‑parade activities.
Tips for Enjoying Tacoma’s Halloween Events
- Check official pages / social media — Event times or details may shift closer to the date.
- Dress in layers — October evenings in Tacoma can be chilly or damp; costumes + coats work best.
- Plan for parking / travel time — Downtown or parade route areas may be busy, so leave a buffer.
- Bring small bags / buckets — Many events provide trick-or-treating or candy, and sturdy bags help.
- Include quieter options — Zoo Boo and Boozaar are great for families who prefer low‑key or daytime events.
- Mix indoor & outdoor plans — If rain arrives, opt for indoor offerings like Harvest Fest’s pool party.
Final Thoughts
Tacoma is embracing Halloween in inclusive and creative ways that appeal to families of all ages. From animal antics at Zoo Boo to street-side trick-or-treating downtown, you can craft a fall schedule that balances fun, safety, and charm. Whether your kids love costumes, candy, or community parades, these five events are standout options to build a memorable October in Tacoma.
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