Though Halloween falls on a weekday this year, don’t expect the celebrations in;New York City to be calm or boring.  If anything, the Thursday date lengthens the celebrations, spanning the weekends before and after the 31st.   Visitors beware.  Americans go all out for Halloween and especially in the East Coast’s biggest city.  With no shortage of activities, pack your costume and get ready to celebrate Halloween New York City style. 

1) Parades

The Village Halloween Parade is the City’s most famous, celebrating its 40th anniversary this year.  The parade is filled with professional puppeteers and musicians, and anyone can join as long as you’re in costume! The parade starts at Sixth Avenue and Spring Street.  There’s also a dog parade in Thompkins Square Park, full of magnificently dressed pooches competing for a $4,000.00 prize! 

2) Haunted Houses;

The Blackout Haunted House on 115 W 27th Street at the Vortex Theater is strictly for the diehard Halloween horror fans.   This haunted house is so scary, visitors must be 18 or older, go through the house solo, and are only allowed to exit early using a safe word.  This haunted house is pricey but is truly a frightening experience, with tickets ranging from $45-$60.

Blood Manor on Varick Street is another option for those seeking a haunted house, with a little less gore and a more extensive admission, allowing visitors 14 and up to for about $28 – $45. 

3) Parties and Pubs

Any neighborhood that’s usually lively on weekends will also be lively for Halloween, and you can pretty much wander into any bar or club and find festive, alcohol infused celebrations.  If you’re looking for something more structured and elaborate, there are hundreds of private balls, parties and concerts you can purchase tickets for occurring all over the city for all different kinds of party goers. 

 

Sound fun? Check out;cheap flights to NYC and get yourself here pronto! 

 

Photo credit: Lucious Kwok