Father and Daughter Decorating Pumpkins for Halloween by Daisy Anderson is licensed with Pexels License
Autumn has officially arrived in Tacoma; the air is crisp, pumpkins are glowing, and Halloween excitement is in full swing. If you’re on the hunt for fun, family-friendly ways to celebrate the spooky season without venturing too far from home, you’re in luck. We’ve rounded up some of the best Halloween happenings all within about a 30-minute drive of Tacoma, WA, plus a few bonus ideas to make your October extra festive.
Zoo Boo at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium
If your kids love animals and candy, this one’s a no-brainer. Zoo Boo returns on October 18–19, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., and it’s packed with family-friendly Halloween fun. Children can show off their costumes, meet “masked” animals, join themed games, and even catch divers carving pumpkins underwater! Admission is included with zoo entry or membership. It’s a lighthearted, daylight event perfect for families with young children.
Tacoma Halloween Parade & Street Fair
For a big dose of community spirit, head to the Tacoma Halloween Parade and Street Fair on October 18. The celebration runs from early afternoon into the evening along McKinley Avenue, featuring floats, performers, music, and trick-or-treat stations. It’s a free, all-ages event that captures the festive energy of Tacoma and best of all, it’s right in town.
Harvest Fest at People’s Community Center
Want something cozy and relaxed? Harvest Fest at People’s Community Center (October 31, 2025, 4:00–6:00 p.m.) is a great option for families with younger kids. Enjoy arts and crafts, costumes, games, pool activities, and treat bags in a safe, welcoming environment. The event is free, or just $5 for non-members no registration required. It’s all the fun of Halloween, minus the fright.
Eastside Community Center Haunted Night
For a light dose of spookiness, check out the Eastside Community Center Haunted Night. Hosted by Metro Parks Tacoma, this event features a haunted house experience, photo booths, and goodie bags. It’s appropriate for all ages (though kids under 10 should come with an adult) and offers just the right mix of excitement without going full horror.
Trunk or Treat at LeMay – America’s Car Museum
Cars and candy, what could be better? The Trunk or Treat event at LeMay – America’s Car Museum turns classic and modern vehicles into Halloween-themed treat stations. Families can wander through rows of decorated cars, collect sweets, and take in the museum’s unique atmosphere. It’s a creative and safe way for kids to celebrate Halloween night.
Frighthouse Station
If your household enjoys a little more adrenaline, Frighthouse Station is Tacoma’s go-to haunted attraction. Featuring 30+ themed rooms and immersive storylines, this haunted house delivers spooky fun for older kids and parents who love a good scare. Be sure to check age recommendations before you go, it’s thrilling but not for everyone!
Halloween on the Hill – Tacoma Community House
Halloween on the Hill (October 25, 3:00–5:00 p.m.) is another fantastic community-based trunk-or-treat event hosted by Tacoma Community House. It’s completely free and offers families a safe, neighborhood-style trick-or-treating experience. Expect friendly faces, festive decorations, and plenty of candy to go around.
Haunted Theatre at Tacoma City Theatres
Love dance and drama? Haunted Theatre brings Halloween to life on stage with a mix of ghosts, goblins, skeletons, and pumpkins all choreographed into a fun and spooky dance performance. It’s an excellent indoor choice for when the fall weather turns chilly or wet, and a great way to support local performing arts.
Planning Your Perfect Tacoma Halloween (Plus a Tip from Titus-Will Toyota)
There you have it; eight fantastic Halloween events for Tacoma families! From Zoo Boo’s animal adventures to the Tacoma Parade’s community energy and the creativity of Trunk or Treat, there’s something for every kind of celebration this spooky season.
Want to make the most of it? Start by choosing one or two “main” events, like the parade or Zoo Boo, then fill in quieter days with smaller community gatherings or trunk-or-treat nights. If your crew is feeling daring, cap off the month with a trip to Frighthouse Station for some hair-raising thrills.
Before you hit the road for your Halloween adventures, make sure your vehicle is ready for fall driving. Swing by Titus-Will Toyota in Tacoma so our friendly team can help you find the perfect ride for all your family outings, pumpkin patch trips, and trick-or-treat treks.
Enjoy your spooky season, Tacoma! 🎃
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