2024 Halloween Rundown: Events for adults, parents and kids
As we approach The Midnight Hour in the Midcoast, here is a comprehensive list of Halloween-themed events everyone can enjoy. From parties to movies, poetry to theater, here are the color-coded events for partying adults, parents, and kids.
Friday, October 18
· Parents and Kids: The Friends of Sears Island will install a self-guided Halloween-themed nature scavenger hunt and “spooky animal trail” along the Homestead Trail. From October 18-31, scavenger hunts will be available to island visitors at the kiosk just beyond the island gate. Families are encouraged to take scavenger hunts for their children and try to find all the items on the list. Details
Saturday, October 19
· Parents and Kids: The Penobscot Bay YMCA invites the entire community to a free afternoon of Halloween fun at The Monster Mash from 1 to 4 p.m. The family-friendly event in Rockport promises wicked fun for everyone, with lots of activities that will get you into the Halloween spirit. Details
· Parents and Kids: Thomaston Trunk or Treat's annual event takes place at 3 Emery Avenue in Thomaston starting at 4 p.m. Go dressed up and join a fun evening of trick or treating in a safe location where everyone is welcome. This event will run until 6 p.m. or while supplies last. Decorated cars that wish to participate should arrive by 3:30 p.m. Details
· All Ages: It is time to pick a pumpkin on the Belfast and Moosehead Lake Railroad.Hop aboard the train in Unity for a round-trip train ride to the pumpkin patch from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Adults, $25; children $12. Details
· All Ages: The Trail of Terror at the Union Fair officially kicked off October 11 and will take place Friday and Saturday nights (18, 19, 25 & 26) from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Suggested for 13 and older. Tickets and Details
· All Ages: Unity Artisans Boo Bash takes place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 141 Crosby Brook Road in Unity. Unity Artisans invites the public to go for a day full of early Halloween activities. Costumes are encouraged but not required. Photo booth, sensory bin, giant Jenga, and bubble station for the kids. Details
· Parents and Kids: In Belfast's Reny's parking lot, the annual Trunk or Treat goes from 12 to 3 p.m. They will have bikes and cars handing out candy. Details.
Wednesday, October 23
· Parents and Kids: Rockland Public Library is hosting a Children’s Halloween Party. Join Miss Katie for silly Halloween stories, six MONSTER-ous crafts, and more. Costumes are encouraged. This program will take place in the Community Room at Rockland Public Library, 80 Union St. FMI: Details
Friday, October 25
· Parents and Kids: Riley School staff and families are hosting a Trunk or Treat in Rockport starting at 4:30 p.m. Visit our campus with your children for some fun treats! If you would like to include your vehicle in the lineup, please email us at office@rileyschool.org.Details
· Parents and Kids: Put on your favorite costumes, buckle up, and join the 5th Annual Shepard & Pope Memorial Trunk-or-Treat Drive-Thru in Thomaston from 4 to 6 p.m. Details
· Adults: The Pour Farm Brewery in Union is hosting a scream contest and movie. At 6 p.m., there will be a blood-curdling scream contest. Screams will be judged on: 1) volume, 2) length, and 3) curdle factor. Prizes. At 7 p.m. they will screen an "Attack of The (TBD)" movie. Details
Saturday, October 26
· All Ages: The third annual Belfast Lions Club Ghostly Gallop 5K run is Halloween-themed, and runners and walkers are encouraged to participate in costume! The run goes from 8:30 to 10 a.m., and tickets are $20. FMI: Details
· Parents and Kids: MAC Storm is hosting a Trunk-or-Treat in Warren with photo opportunities from 3 to 6 p.m. Details
· Adults: Trackside Station in Rockland is throwing their annual Halloween Party! No GUTS No GLORY returns to rock starting at 8:30 p.m. $100 cash prize for best costume. The party goes until midnight. Ages 21 plus, $5 cash cover. Details
· Adults: High Tide in Rockland will be hosting a Halloween Party starting at 9 p.m. with a costume contest and DJ Mad Flex. Details
MRC Community Saturday: Halloween Themed! On Saturday, October 26, 6:30-8:30pm enjoy a free evening of Public Skate, tennis games and contests, and Pickleball Learn to Play and Open Play. Costumes are encouraged. MRC, Route 90, Rockport.
Sunday, October 27
· Parents and Kids: Stone Tree Farm & Cidery in Unity is hosting its second annual Trunk or Treat event from 1 to 4 p.m. Go celebrate Halloween with your family. Details
Tuesday, October 29
· Older Children: Professional Storyteller and Youth Services Librarian Stephanie Holman will present spine-tingling tales at the Belfast Free Library, 106 High Street, Belfast, on Tuesday from 4:30-5:30 p.m. Found in collections of children’s literature, this type of tale helps one face fears through story and in a fun group setting. This event is for older children: listening, patience and a love of scary stories are required. Details
· Adults: The Colonial Theater in Belfast is hosting an indie horror movie, Beyond The Decay, at 6:30 p.m. This is the Northern New England premiere. Cast and crew will be in attendance. Plot Summary & Details
Thursday, October 31
· Adults: Get ready for a monstrously good time at the third annual Bridge Street Halloween Block Party in Bucksport at 20 Bridge Street from 5 to 8 p.m., a night of spine-chilling fun and feast on a wickedly delicious selection from one of the food trucks. Frankenstein's in the house, so prepare for a thrillingly and electrifying atmosphere. Details
· Parents and Kids: American Legion Post Annual Trunk or Treat in Rockland will take place at 335 Limerock Street from 4 to 6 p.m. Details
· Parents and Kids: Rockland Rec Center is holding its annual Trunk or Treat at the Coastal Recovery Community Center from 5 to 7 p.m. Details
· All Ages: Hot Hill Tavern in Thomaston is giving out treats to trick-or-treaters and hosting a costume contest starting at 4 p.m. Details
Note: Fright at The Fort is not taking place this year. More adult events will be added for the week leading up to Halloween. Check back for more listings to come or email to list your event (Midcoast only) Please include relevant details.
Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com