The Weekender: October 31 to November 3
Celebrate the end of spooky season with Día de los Muertos, vintage shopping, and a final stroll through Boston Lights at Franklin Park Zoo
October 31 to November 3
For college students, Halloween isn’t just a holiday—it’s an art form. It’s about finding the perfect costume (or making do with what’s left at the thrift store), chasing down the best events, and stretching spooky season through the month of October—and beyond. Luckily, Boston delivers. Whether you’re wandering through Beacon Hill’s lantern-lit streets, catching a Scream double feature at the Coolidge Corner Theatre or setting sail on a haunted Charles River cruise, there’s no shortage of ways to keep the festivities going. Not sure where to start? Don’t worry—this Weekender has all the tricks and treats you need.
Trick or Treating in Beacon Hill
On Halloween night, Beacon Hill’s narrow cobblestone streets come alive with jack-o’-lanterns, spooky decor, and costumed trick-or-treaters. Local residents go all out, transforming their historic homes with elaborate displays and handing out candy from the stoops of their historic brownstones. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience that captures the magic of the season in one of the city’s most iconic neighborhoods.
Thursday, October 31, 4 to 9 pm, Beacon Hill, Boston. Free and open to all.
Scream Halloween House Party at the Coolidge Corner Theatre
“Yeah, you’re gonna love this one! It’s a scream, baby!” The Coolidge Corner Theatre is throwing a Halloween house party that any Ghostface fan would die for. The night kicks off at 7 pm with spooky snacks, film-themed cocktails, and a killer photo booth. Wear your best costume for a chance to win prizes before diving into a double feature of Scream (1996) and the fifth film in the series, Scream (2022) on the big screen.
Thursday, October 31, pre-party at 7 pm, screening begins at 8 pm, Coolidge Corner Theatre, 290 Harvard St., Brookline. Buy tickets here.
Harvard Art Museums at Night
This Halloween, step into your very own Night at the Museum at the Harvard Art Museums, where art and enchantment come to life after dark. Wander through over 50 galleries by moonlight, craft eerie masks in the Materials Lab, and join a Halloween scavenger hunt to win prizes. DJ C-Zone will spin haunting beats in the courtyard, with food from Olive World and craft brews from Night Shift Brewing to keep the festive spirit alive. Take the short Spotlight Tour to hear the stories behind some of the museum’s most captivating works…if you dare.
Thursday, October 31, 5 to 9 pm, Harvard Art Museums, 32 Quincy St., Cambridge. Free admission; registration encouraged, but not required.
Haunted Charles River Cruise
Step aboard the Haunted Charles River Cruise for a spine-tingling journey through Boston’s dark history. As you glide along the river, hear chilling tales of ghosts, haunted landmarks, and eerie local legends, all while taking in the city skyline at night. The boat’s festive Halloween decor sets the mood, and a fully stocked bar ensures those 21-plus stay warm and brave. It’s the perfect way to blend a little fright with waterfront views—ideal for anyone looking to celebrate the spooky season with a twist.
Thursday, October 31, through Saturday, November 2, various times, departing from 60 Rowes Wharf, Boston. Purchase tickets here.
Boston’s Wicked Haunt Fest
Step into the heart of Halloween at Boston’s first-ever Wicked Haunt Fest, featuring four haunted attractions, including Harvest Awakening, a journey through a haunted farm, and Rise of Annkh, a trip back in time to explore eerie Egyptian tombs. In between scares, indulge in carnival treats like fried dough, mac ‘n’ cheese, and jumbo pretzels, or grab a drink from the Monster Bar and beer garden. Wander through the Graveyard, scale Skeleton Mountain, and browse pop-up shops, with music and games adding to the fun. Costumes are encouraged, so come dressed to impress—or scare!
Friday, November 1, through Sunday, November 3, 5 to 10:30 pm, 10 Stack St., Boston. Tickets ($25) required; purchase online.
BU Men’s Hockey vs. University of Michigan
Cheer on the BU varsity men’s hockey team as they hit the ice to take on the University of Michigan Wolverines in what promises to be an action-packed showdown. With two powerhouse teams facing off, expect high energy, thrilling plays, and fierce competition at Agganis Arena. Don’t miss your chance to support the Terriers and be part of the excitement.
Friday, November 1, 7 pm, Agganis Arena, 925 Commonwealth Ave., Boston. Tickets available on Ticketmaster.
Vintage After Dark with Select Markets & Culture Pop
Time Out Market is hosting Vintage After Dark, where you can browse curated pieces from local vintage vendors—just in time for the final Halloween weekend. Whether you’re adding the final touch to a costume or refreshing your fall wardrobe, there’s plenty to explore. With a live DJ, free Culture Pop samples, a charm bar, and more, it’s the perfect way to celebrate this spooky season with style.
Saturday, November 2, 2 to 6 pm, Time Out Market Boston, 401 Park Drive, Boston. Free to attend; RSVP encouraged.
Día de los Muertos at Bow Market
How do you honor those who came before? Bow Market’s Día de los Muertos celebration invites the community to gather for a night of reflection, joy, and vibrant traditions. Hosted by Amantolli, the event will feature a beautifully adorned altar honoring loved ones, alongside a lively mix of cultural vendors offering unique crafts and goods. As you stroll through the market, enjoy traditional pan de muerto and exclusive food and drink specials from Bow Market’s many vendors. Music will fill the night, with two DJs spinning tunes and a live mariachi band bringing the energy to life.
Saturday, November 2, 5 to 10 pm, Bow Market, One Bow Market Way, Somerville. Free to attend, with food, drinks, and crafts available for purchase. Reserve tickets here.
Boston Lights at Franklin Park Zoo
Sunday is your last chance to experience the magic of Boston Lights at Franklin Park Zoo. This 1.4-mile illuminated trail features glowing sea creatures, including a 115-foot octopus and a dazzling ocean tunnel, along with touch-activated displays that spark volcanic eruptions. Wander through scenes inspired by India, filled with lotus flowers, palaces, and animal lanterns, and marvel at the 76-foot “Kun,” a mythical fish from Chinese folklore. With immersive displays and photo-worthy moments at every turn, it’s a stunning way to wrap up the weekend.
Through Sunday, November 3, 5 to 10:30 pm, Franklin Park Zoo, One Franklin Park Rd., Boston. Purchase tickets here.
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