Spooky Season in Central Delaware

Back to Blog
masthead-innerpage-bg
01-Spooky-Season-in-Central-Delaware

Central Delaware is the place to be as the leaves change and spooky season begins. From masquerade balls and themed dining experiences to haunted walking trails and lantern tours, this picturesque region has something for everyone. In our guide, we explore the spookiest activities taking place throughout the month of October. Whether you’re looking for ghostly family-friendly activities or events that will truly chill your bones, we’ve got you covered.

Celebrate spooky season with these frightfully fun activities taking place throughout Central Delaware:

Boo! At the Zoo! 

Looking for spooky but not scary Halloween family fun? Head to Boo! At the Zoo! Every fall, the 3 Palms Zoo transforms into a ghostly spectacle of glowing decorations, nocturnal animals and Halloween-themed music. Roast marshmallows with the family, explore an eerie graveyard and meet classic Halloween pirates, skeletons and witches. 

Witness the zoo’s creatures of the night, including red, silver and gray foxes, skunk and eastern coyote, as they come alive. And of course, be sure to pay a visit to iconic Halloween animals like Sienna the Screech Owl, Poe the Crow and the zoo’s wake of Vultures for the full experience. 

Address: 3 Palms Zoo, Vandyke Greenspring Road, Townsend, DE, USA

Wicked Woods 

For an unforgettable frightful time, head to Wicked Woods in Kent County, DE. This 1-mile combination attraction includes a wagon ride and a haunting walk through a darkened path of scares and screams. Dress for the weather and enjoy a chilling night that’s sure to scare your socks off! 

Address: 2621 Sandy Bend Road Camden, DE 19934

Haunted Dover Lantern Tour 

For those who enjoy tales of the supernatural, the Haunted Dover Lantern Tour cannot be missed. The interpreters at First State Heritage Park run this event every October, offering tours of ghost stories and haunting around the Dover Green, illuminated by an eerie lanternlight. Each tour lasts around 45 minutes, and pre-registration is required, so be sure to book today! 

Address: 43 The Green, Dover, Delaware, USA

Little Shop of Horrors 

One of the longest-running Off-Broadway shows, Little Shop of Horrors, is coming to Central Delaware. The horror comedy musical was one of the highest-grossing productions in off-Broadway history. It tells the story of Seymour Krelborn, a florist shop worker who raises a foul-mouthed singing plant that feeds on humans. Over time, Seymour realizes the plant’s origins and intentions of global domination. Ring in the Halloween season by witnessing this hilarious musical at the Riverfront Theater in Milford, DE.

Address: Riverfront Theater, South Walnut Street, Milford, DE, USA

Haunted Dining Experience

Fondue, in Milford, DE, is gearing up for a two-weekend Halloween dining experience. Here, you’ll find cheese and chocolate fondue, interactive games, scary actors, specialty cocktails and more. Prizes will also be awarded for best costumes, so be sure to come dressed to impress! Reservations and a small deposit are needed to secure your spot for this unforgettable Halloween-themed event.

Address: 39 North Walnut Street, Milford, DE, USA

Oddities & Curiosities Market 

Do you enjoy all things unique? You’ll surely discover that at Willey’s Oddities and Curiosities Market in Townsend, DE. Wander past stalls filled with curiosities and unusual wares, discovering whimsical treasures around every corner. There will also be face painting and kids’ karaoke, so mark your calendar to join in on the spooky season fun!  

Address: Willey Farms, Dupont Parkway, Townsend, DE, USA

Bites, Brews, and Boos! 

Enjoy Halloween fun while supporting a good cause. Bites, Brews, and Boos! is an exciting event that promises music, food and drink specials, a costume contest and more — all while funding research and treatment for the rare genetic disorder HNRNPU. Let your Halloween fun fuel hope for families impacted by this condition — stop by dressed in your festive best and enjoy this one amazing night, organized by the 501(c)(3), Better Future 4 U.

Address: Easy Speak Spirits, Milford Harrington Highway, Milford, DE 

Murder at the Masquerade Ball: A Fine Dining Experience

Looking for a fine dining experience with a side of…spooky? Back by popular demand, Murder at the Masquerade Ball is an exclusive five-course fine dining experience and a costume masquerade ball. Guests will pre-select three courses when making their reservations, and prizes will be given out to those with the best costumes and masks. Start planning your ghoulish costumes, and get ready for a night of gourmet dining, dancing and mystery.  

Address: 249 NE Front St, Milford, DE, United States, Delaware 19963

Goodies and Goblins 

The Delaware Agricultural Museum puts on a delightfully spooky trick-or-treat event every Halloween. Have the kids get dressed up in their Halloween best and collect goodies at each historic building. Visit the Haunted Mill if you dare, or see what tricks or treats await you at the School House, Train Station, General Store, Barbershop and Farmhouse. This exciting event will leave you with frightfully fun family memories for years to come. 

Address: Delaware Agricultural Museum, 866 North Dupont Highway, Dover, DE 

A Victorian Halloween: First Saturday in the First State

Time to celebrate the season Victorian-style! Head to the John Bell House and explore the darker side of Victorian Halloween. From unusual mourning rituals to eerie home adornments, the 1800s were packed with spine-tingling traditions. Participate in Victorian-themed Halloween crafts and witness the historic interpreters participate in trades from the era. 

 Address: 43 The Green, Dover, DE, USA

Master of the Macabre: The Life and Works of Edgar Allan Poe

Honor the spirit of Halloween at the Old State House this season, where you’ll learn about the life and writings of Edgar Allan Poe. Attendees will listen to readings from some of his eeriest works or join in by reading their favorite Poe poem, an excerpt from one of his short stories or their own poem inspired by Poe. Sit back and enjoy the frightening tales from the Master of the Macabre. 

Address: The Old State House, 25 The Green, Dover, DE, USA

Enjoy Spooky Central Delaware This Fall

Central Delaware is nothing short of spooktacular in October. This region’s relaxed and welcoming atmosphere promises cozy fall vibes, frightening fun and history, and family-friendly fun around every corner. Enjoy festive libations at themed restaurant events, win best-dressed at a Halloween costume contest or walk bone-chilling trails and night tours in Central Delaware.

Even on our quietest country roads, you’ll find spooky surprises at every turn. Come visit us in Central Delaware and enjoy a fun, festive experience this fall! Download Visit Central Delaware’s Visitor’s Guide to learn more and start planning your autumn getaway today.

Previous ArticleBombay Hook Nature Programs and Nearby Activities