Just because your little ones aren’t ready for scary Halloween haunted houses doesn’t mean you have to completely miss out on the fun. Instead, add these family-friendly trunk-or-treats, crafts, Halloween movies, and other celebrations to your calendar.
26th Annual Halloween Safari
October 17, 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.
This annual safari is a non-scary nighttime hike with performances and skits from native “wildlife.” The walk runs every six minutes. Leopold’s Preserve: 16290 Thoroughfare Rd., Broad Run, $10
Brunch with the Sanderson Sisters
October 19, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Start your morning off with a little hocus pocus. The Sanderson Sisters are flying down to Occoquan for a sinister Sunday brunch. Fill up on scrambled eggs, bacon, and pancakes before enjoying the live performances, crafts, and interactive games. The restaurant will also be hosting a costume contest, so make sure to dress to impress. Madigan’s Waterfront: 201 Mill St., Occoquan, $35, free for children under 2
Sensory-Friendly Family Trick-or-Treat
October 19, 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Celebrate Halloween in a sensory-friendly environment. Head to the Clemyjontri Park for a day full of inclusive fun. Kids will be able to ride the carousel and train, complete arts and crafts, and enjoy themed treats throughout the playground. A sensory tent and additional support will be available throughout the day. Clemyjontri Park: 6317 Georgetown Pk., McLean; $20
Family Friendly Haunted Trail
October 23–26, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Experience the magic of Halloween as you walk through the scenic grounds of this haunted trail. There are 10 scenes with friendly costumed actors who bring the trail to life. For those that want a completely fright-free trail, join the walk at 6:30 p.m. to experience it without actors. The trail is designed for children ages 4 to 12. Salamander Middleburg: 500 N. Pendleton St., Middleburg, $20
Haunted Mini Golf
October 24 & 25, 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Dawn your best costume and grab a putter before you take on the nine-hole course. Trick-or-treat stations will be located around the course. Oakmont Rec Center: 3200 Jermantown Rd., Oakton, $12 in advance, $15 at the door
Halloween House Trick or Treat Trail
October 24 & 25, 5:45 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Collect your treats a week early when you venture through the nature-themed trick-or-treat trail. Along the trail, which is held by the Reston Association, you’ll find characters and real animals as you collect your candy. Afterwards, enjoy apple cider, popcorn, and games. Walker Nature Center: 11450 Glade Dr., Reston, $15 for members, $20 for non-members
Monster Mash
October 25, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
The monsters of Leesburg will come out to play at the annual Monster Mash. In addition to trick-or-treating, attendees can watch live professional pumpkin carving, decorate cookies, get their face painted, and compete in the costume contest. The Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office will also be hosting Child Safety Day. Village at Leesburg: 1602 Village Market Blvd. SE, Leesburg, free
Family Drive-In Trunk or Treat
October 25, 4 p.m.
What goes better with candy than spooky movies? Make the drive to the Family Drive-in for the ultimate trunk-or-treat event. The evening will include a costume contest, awards for best decorated vehicles, and plenty of candy. After you grab your treats, stay for the Halloween feature. 5890 Valley Pk., Stephens City
Ghost Town
October 25 & 26, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Don’t let the name fool you — there won’t be any spooks at this family-friendly event. Spend the afternoon enjoying Halloween-themed activities, carousel and train rides, crafts, and mini golf. Burke Lake Park: 7315 Ox Rd., Fairfax Station, $20 online, $25 day of the event, free for children under 2
Mall-o-ween
October 30, 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Dulles Town Center is transforming just in time for Halloween. Frights and fun will lurk around every corner. When you visit the mall, expect to find a trick-or-treat trail; Harry Potter-, Taylor Swift-, and Wicked-themed craft stations; face painting, and live performances. Guests can also donate gently used coats to One Warm Coat. Dulles Town Center: 21100 Dulles Town Cir., Dulles
Feature image of Burke Lake Park train by Don Sweeney
