Check out our 2012 Fall & Halloween Guide filled with haunted houses, hayrides, festivals, parties, trick-or-treating and dozens of autumn & harvest activities happening in and around Grand Rapids.

Haunted Houses Hayrides & Corn Mazes
Halloween Parties
Cider Mills & Pumpkin Patches
Festivals & Family Activities
Entertainment & Arts
Trick-or-Treating
Costume Shops
Fall Color & Halloween Tours



Haunted Houses


Grand Rapids Area

The Haunt - One of West Michigan's best-known haunted attractions is back for its 12th year with five terrifying attractions: The Haunt, The Darkmaze: Reborn, After Midnight, Terror Town 3D and Monster Paintball. Shiver and scream through 25,000 sq ft of professionally designed rooms and scenes that contain dozens of creepy creatures. The Haunt Dancers are also back. Opens September 28; tickets are $15+ with online discounts, combos and speed passes available.

Nights of Fear - Located inside the 80,000 sq ft space adjacent to Big Lots at Plainfield and 4 Mile Rd, Nights of Fear offers three main haunted houses: Carnival of Souls, Brainfield Sanitarium The Lost Wing and Castle Greyskull. 'Buried Alive', the horror-themed photo op is also back for 2012. Opens October 5; general admission is $15, with combo passes set at $20. Credit cards accepted and parking is free.


Forest of Fear - Beginning October 5, take the self-guided tour through five chilling acres of woods and swamps inhabited by ghouls, ghosts and other terrifying creatures. Tickets are $13 for adults and $10 for kids with funds raised going to support the Kentwood Jaycees.

Witch's Walk - Starting September 29, walk this haunted corn maze near 6 Mile Rd & Fruit Ridge NW, if you dare! The backstory: when clearing a field to plant corn, a farmer came across an old cemetery and accidentally disturbed some unmarked graves. Since then, strange sounds have been coming from the field and former graveyard. The Witch's Walk is a half mile of twists and turns over this disturbed burial ground. Ticket prices are $10 for evenings, $5 during the day. Online coupons are available.

Witches of New Salem - Enter the Witch's Woods in Dorr (south of Grand Rapids) for two Halloween attractions. Grab a flashlight and navigate the twists turns of the corn maze, while avoiding the gruesome Corn Stalkers. If you dare, enter the woods where the witches, ghouls and mentally twisted have a special night in store. Admission is $15 for each haunt or $25 for both. Opens September 28.

Moonlight Manor Haunt - The Halloween yard haunt in Wyoming presents "Horrortorium" for the 2012 season. Walk the maze and meet up with all the monsters of your childhood October 30 and 31. Admission is $5.



Outside Grand Rapids

Carlson's Crypt Haunted Trail - Located in Belding (about 20 miles from downtown Grand Rapids), Carlson's Crypt offers both a haunted trail and The Night Maze on Friday and Saturday nights in October. Admission is $13 for the haunted trail and $15 for combo tickets. A daytime corn maze is open on Saturdays and Sundays.

Trail of Terror - Run through the haunted trail in the woods in Holton, located between Fremont and Muskegon. The Trail of Terror is open Friday and Saturday nights through October 27. Admission: $12.

Spooktacular Haunted House - The Red Barn Theatre in Saugatuck has been converted into a haunted house that's just scary enough for ages 5 to 75. Admission: $5 per person. Open Friday and Saturday nights through October 27.

Psycho Ward & Nightmares - The Haunt Park at the Kalamazoo Speedway features two attractions for $15: Psycho Ward and Nightmares. Inside the Pyscho Ward, the Floyd Cranston clan is back to put a disturbing twist on Fred's body dismemberment and bloodletting. The Nightmares haunt takes fears to a shocking new level, forcing you to confront your darkest dreams.

Crane Orchard Haunted Corn Maze - The 15-acre corn maze in Fennville features an all-new design for 2012. Expect major screams and goosebumps during the 30-40 minute haunted journey that also includes the 3D special effects barn. Tickets are $14 for both. Not recommended for kids 12 and under.

Wicked Ranch - The Double JJ Resort's haunt in Rothbuy takes horror to a whole new level with Nightmare at the Bunkhouse, the Town of Terror and a mile-long hayride through the Wicked Woods. The scream pass for all three attractions is $25 per person, and skip-the-line passes are also available.



Hayrides & Cornmazes

Robinette's Hayrides & Cornmaze - Belgian draft horses take visitors on an authentic hay wagon through Robinette's apple and fruit orchards on Saturdays (10a-5p) and Sundays (12p-5p) during October. Hayride admission is $6 for adults and $4 for kids under 12. The corn maze returns for a second year and is open daily. Entry to the maze is $6 per person. Combo tickets are available. The new jumping pillow also returns.

Klackle Orchards - Klackle Orchards once again hosts Fall Family Fun Days beginning in mid-September. The $9 admission includes wagon hayrides, the enchanted pumpkin ride, entry to the petting zoo, access to the coaster slide area and more. Pony, elephant and camel rides are also available, as are u-pick apples and pumpkins.

Post Family Farm - The Farm Festivals in Hudsonville are held on each Saturday (mid-September through Halloween) and feature hayrides, a pumpkin patch, pumpkin train rides, farm animals, corn maze, crafts games and more. Admission is $6.

Fruit Ridge Harvest Festival - It's good old fashioned fun at the 125-year old Fruit Ridge Farm in Kent City. In September and October, huge draft horses pull visitors through a woods, pumpkin patch and orchard. Back at the barn enjoy apple cider, homemade doughnuts, petting zoo, children's play area, corn maze and more. Hayrides and the corn maze are $6 each per person and can be combined for $10.

Hayrides at Koetsier's - The greenhouse on Spaulding Ave SE in Grand Rapids features hayrides on Fridays and Saturdays in October. Inside, buildings are transformed into a fall family fun play area geared for kids 10 and under with inflatables, games, pumpkin painting and a maze. Groups are welcome.

Horse-Drawn Wagon Rides at Moelker - Horse-drawn, scavenger hunt hayrides take place each Saturday in October from noon until 5 p.m. at the orchard located just west of Wilson Ave and Millenium Park in Grand Rapids. Moelker also has special kids activities, pumpkin decorating and more.

Wells Orchards Corn Maze - The working family farm on Kenowa Ave SW along the Grand River features a corn maze, plus a pumpkin patch, apples, peaches, painted pumpkins and a farm market. Hayrides are on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. through the end of October.

Heidi's Farmstand & Bakery - In Lowell, the farmstand and bakery has a pumpkin patch, corn maze, pumpkin patch and more Mondays through Saturdays in October. Closed Sundays.

Forest Grove Corn Maze - The Forest Grove Reformed Church Youth Group in Zeeland hosts the corn maze open Wednesdays-Fridays from 4-8p, Saturdays 11 a - 11 p and by appointment other days.

Hayrides at Bethke - At Bethke Farms in Grand Haven, the 20-minute hayrides take visitors through spooky and fun scenes and past the corn maze. U-pick pumpkins also available. Open weekday evenings and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Fridays through Sundays.


Halloween Parties

Harvest & Halloween - Join other young professionals from The Connection at Frederik Meijer Gardens October 24 for an evening of food, wine, Michigan beer, fall activities, tram tours and more. Admission is free for members of The Connection, $20 for non-members.

Halloween Party 2012 - Club Envy in downtown Muskegon will have a costume contest October 25 that will award prizes to best girl and guy costumes. Ages 18+ welcome.

October 26

Haunted Halloween @ Grid 70 - In 1938, a young secretary was violently murdered in the building that is now Grid 70 on Ionia Ave SW, and is said to still haunt the place. Will the Taunting Whispers Paranormal team uncover unusual activity during the night? The haunted tours are part of the evening that will also feature a live DJ, drinks, dancing, snacks and a raffle.

3rd Annual Halloween Costume Party - The Grand Rapids Sport & Social Club presents the third annual party at Cantina Mexican Grill on East Paris. DJ Phantom will spin scary mixes and prizes will be awarded for best costumes.

Halloween Hoedown - Grand Woods Lounge will award $200 the best country costume, plus Kris Hitchcock and Small Town Son will perform live at 10 p.m.

Fête Dément - The 'Killer Party' at the CityFlats Ballroom hosted by the design professionals of AIGA West Michigan will have monsters of industry, spooky speakers, live DJs and dancing.

BOTTOM 40 Halloween - BOTTOM 40 hosts their annual Halloween party at The Rez, formerly Sazerac Lounge, beginning at 9 p.m.; $5 cover.

Pre-Halloween Bash! - No cover charge and drink specials at the Teazers party. "Come Dressed To Kill or Thrill."

The Halloween Harvest - Local band The Crane Wives headline the Halloween party at Watermark 920 in Muskegon. The event will have a costume contest, food, beverages, live music and more. Ages 18+ welcome.

October 27

The B.O.B.'s Annual Halloween Bash - 'Movies of 2012' is the theme of this year's Halloween party at The B.O.B. presented by WLAV. Best overall costume will win $1,000 cash. Cover is $10.

The Haunted Hotel Thriller - The elegant, diverse and upscale Halloween fundraising event at the Amway Grand's Ambassador Ballroom will have a live DJ spinning Top 40 and hip hop and a $500 costume contest.

HopCat Halloween Party - Wear your spookiest/goofiest costume and you might just win a Hopcat gift card. Cover: free in costume, $5 if you're not dressed up.

Founders Annual Spooktacular Halloween Party - Starting at 9:30 p.m., enjoy live music from Black Jake and the Carnies and Oracle. $5 cover; ages 21+ welcome.

The Rumors Annual Halloween Ball - Cash and prizes for best costume; party starts at 10 p.m.

Monte's Halloween Party - Win $1,000 for best costume, plus DJ Matt B will host. Doors at 8 p.m.

Diversions 18th Annual Halloween Party - See who will walk away with the title of 'Best Costume' and a cash prize, plus enjoy a live DJ and dancing and karaoke.

ZOMBIELAND - McFadden's annual Halloween party will award $100 cash each to best guy & girl costume and a $100 gift card for the best group costume.

Peppinos Pirate Ship Halloween - Peppino's downtown will have drink specials and a costume contest.

Legion of Zombies Halloween Party - The Legion Post #459 on Michigan St NE hosts their annual party with live music, a costume contest and 50/50 raffle. Free and open to the public; proceeds benefit local veterans.

Haunted Hall Bash 7 - Making the move from Casnovia to Wyoming, 'The Carnival of Fear' is this year's theme for the Haunted Hall Bash. DJ Irene will headline a night of music, clowns, carnival games, an oxygen bar, a Freak Show and much more. Tickets are $30 in advance and $50 at the door, and include access to the open bar.

Harvest of Souls - Returning for a 5th year to The Orbit Room, the party will have a costume contest, performances by Miss Pussykatt & The Daredevil Circus, aerial acrobatics, live music and more. Tickets: $10 in advance.

Halloween Costume Party and Contest - The annual salsa dancing Halloween party at Pietro's will award cash prizes for best costumes and a grand prize for best celebrity look-a-like.

Just Wicked Halloween Party - The JW Marriott's annual Halloween costume party returns to the International Ballroom with a live DJ, cash prizes for best costumes and no cover charge. 21+.

A Coldville Halloween - Local rockers Coldville host the costume party at Flanagan's beginning at 9 p.m.

Halloween Costume Party - The costume party at Mosaic Space on South Division to benefit kids in West Michigan with Spina Bifida. The $50 ticket includes food, drink tickets, raffle prizes, DJ and dancing, a costume contest and more.

Night of Freaks - Celebrate the centuries old holiday of Halloween with 'Night of Freaks', a full night of EDM with some of the best local talent at the Art Gallery at 1111 Godfrey.

Halloween Party 2012 - The Holiday Bar on Fifth St NW will host a costume contest, live DJ and drink specials.

Masquerade Ball - Shots' Halloween party features karaoke, a costume contest, drink specials, jello shots and more from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m.

Deborah Kay & The Bluebloods Halloween Show - The costume party at the Rogue River Winery in downtown Rockford features live music by The Bluebloods.

Flo's 2nd Annual Halloween Party - Florentine's on Post Dr in Belmont will host a costume contest, plus have $1 Jello shots and a live DJ.

The Muze Halloween Party - The bar & nightclub on 4 Mile near Alpine will have a costume contest with a cash prize, live DJ, dancing and drink specials. No cover.

Magoo's Halloween Party - The nightclub on 44th in Wyoming will have a costume contest, drink specials and music spun by DJ Kid Joe.

Trilogy Halloween Party - Local band Trilogy hosts the party at the Grattan Irish Pub on Old Belding Road. $100 will go to the best costume, plus there will be giveaways and party favors through the night.

Bow-Tie Tavern - The bar on Alpine in Sparta will have judged costume contest and drink specials.

The Holland Halloween Massacre Party - The party at The Unscene Bistro & Gallery on 16th Street will have live DJs, giveaways, costume contest, raffles and more. Ladies 18+ and guys 21+ welcome; tickets $10 in advance.

Hippie Mafia Monster Mash - The fifth annual Halloween bash at the Park Theatre will include bands from the local music scene plus headlining act Back Forty. Tickets: $12 in advance, $15 at the door.

New Holland Brewing Halloween Party - The circus-themed party in downtown Holland will have live music, a photo booth and costume contest.

Nunica Costume Party - The costume party at Nunica Bar & Party Store will have live music and drink specials starting at 9:30 p.m.

Halloween Party at The Grand and Theatre Bar - The historic lobby of the Grand Theatre will be the setting of the annual party featuring live music, costume contest, door prizes, and spooky specialty cocktails.

Haunted Corral - Washington Ave in downtown Grand Haven will be the site of the Haunted Corral featuring entertainment, food, beer, a live DJ, costume contest and more.

Halloween Party 2012 - Club Envy in downtown Muskegon is party of the 101.7 Pub Crawl and the bar will have trophies and prizes for best costumes. Ages 18+ welcome.

Halloween Dance Party - Saugatuck Brewing Company presents the Halloween dance party with live music, a costume contest with cash prizes, food and beer specials, a photo booth and more.

Evening Halloween Parade - The adult Halloween costume parade in downtown Douglas (Saugatuck) kicks off at 10 p.m.

Halloween Costume/Karaoke Party - Christo's Roadhouse in Douglas will have karaoke, a live DJ, costume contest prizes and more.

Wicked Masquerade Ball - The Double JJ Resort in Rothbury hosts the night of costumes, food, drinks, dancing and karaoke. Individual tickets are $20 in advance.

October 28

Playboys & Bunnies - The costume contest and party at Crush and Eve at The B.O.B. will award prizes for the best bunny and playboy costumes. 18+ welcome with college ID.

Fright Night - Rumors' Night Club annual Halloween drag show starts at 10 p.m.

October 29

Playboy Energy 2012 Halloween R.A.V.E. - 'Bad Meets Evil' is the theme of the Halloween party and costume contest at The Venue on Lake Michigan Drive in Walker. Live DJ starts at 10 p.m.

October 30

Sigma 21 Tuesdays Halloween Party - Louie's Bar has new management and staff who will host the costume party with a live DJ and drink specials. 21+ welcome.

October 31

Forever in Fear - The Intersection's Halloween bash and costume party will feature live music from Sin Theorem, Genocya, Tru-Burn and more. Admission: $5; ages 18+ welcome.

Night of Illusions: Halloween Style - The Halloween drag show at San Chez Bistro is a night of illusions, where every beautiful woman is a man. Tickets are $59 and include beverages, tapas, entertainment and a costume contest.

A Halloween Affair - The party at Bar Divani will feature a best dressed Halloween contest hosted by DJ Omega Supreme. $10 cover; ages 21+ welcome.

Sindustry Halloween at the Tavern - Tavern on the Square invites fellow "industry kids" (and everyone else) for a night of ghoulish fun and shenanigans with drink specials, live DJ and a late night food buffet.

ZOMBIELAND - McFadden's annual Halloween party will award $100 cash each to best guy & girl costume and a $100 gift card for the best group costume.

Pimps & Ho's Ball - Billy's annual Halloween costume party gets underway at 8:30 p.m. $5 cover; ages 21+ welcome.

A Nightmare in the Pyramid - Ultraviolet Hippopotamus will perform music from Tim Burton's 'Nightmare Before Christmas' and their new album 'The Broomhilda Suite'. Copies of the new EP are included in the ticket price of $15.

Halloween Party at SpeakEZ Lounge - Delilah DeWylde & the Lost Boys headline the party at SpeakEZ.

Gipper's Halloween Party - The bar/restaurant on Kraft near 28th Street will have a costume contest with a cash prize, t-shirts, giveaways, Bicardi promotions and more.

Harmony Brewing Halloween Party - Stop by Harmony on Lake Drive in Eastown in costume and get $2.50 pints from 8 p.m. to close.

Main Street Pub Halloween -The restaurant and bar on 28th SW in Wyoming will have a costume contest, karaoke and drink specials.

Halloween Benefit Dance for Relief From Superstorm Sandy - Moveir Dance Studio in Wyoming hosts the costume and dance party that include swing dance lessons. A large portion of the donations raised will go to the NYU Hospital.

Halloween Costume Contest - At Chicago Drive Pub, take advantage of gift certificates and door prizes for costumes and happy hour drink specials all evening.

New Holland Brewing Halloween Party - New Holland's second Halloween party will feature Stein Night, $5 seasonal beer fills and a live DJ.

Main Street Pub - Allendale Halloween - From 10 p.m. to 1 a.m., Main St Pub will have a live DJ, dancing, drink specials and a costume contest. No cover; 18+ welcome.

Trick or Beats - The Curragh in downtown Holland will have live DJs and drink specials from 9 a.m. to 2 a.m. Costumes optional.

A Halloween Irish Hooley - Visit Fenian's Irish Pub in Conklin for a traditional Irish Halloween Hooley with authentic Irish music and songs. Costumes are encouraged.

November 3

Halloween Black Light Party - Candlestone Golf & Resort in Belding hosts a night to dress up, dance, and glow under black light. No cover charge.


Cider Mills, Apple Picking & Pumpkins

*Please note that most farms lost their apple crops this year due to a spring freeze*

Blok Orchard - The family-owned orchard on 4 Mile NE in Ada has 45 acres of apples, along with vegetable offerings.

Ed Dunneback & Girls - Located just 10 minutes from downtown GR on 6 Mile Rd NW, the farm market has been family owned and operated for more than 70 years and has u-pick apples and pumpkins from 11a-4p on Saturdays and noon-4p on Sundays.

Fruit Ridge Hayrides - The Kent City farm has apples, pumpkins, hayrides, kids activities and more.

Gavin Orchards - The Coopersville farm offers pumpkins, seasonal vegetables and apples until October 31.

Hanulcik Farm Market - The family farm market in Ionia grows and sells twelve variaties of apples, along with strawberries and peaches earlier in the season. *Hanulcik will be closed this fall due to the lost apple crop caused by unusual spring weather*.

Heffron Farms - The family farm in Belding has free hayrides and balloons, along with baby calves, chicks and livestock.

Heritage Farms Market - Located near Fremont and Hesperia, the local farm market has home-grown pumpkins and produce, donuts, caramel apples, fudge and maple syrup.

Klackle Orchards - Pumpkins, u-pick apples, hayrides, family activities, cider, caramel apples and more in Greenville.

Klein Cider Mill - Located on Spaulding SE in GR, enjoy cider, donuts, an indoor kids play area, pumpkins, mums and more.

Koetsier’s Greenhouse - Watch cider made the old-fashioned way and pick your own pumpkin out of the patch at the farm located on 10 Mile in Sparta.

Morse Brothers Farm - The Comstock Park Farm on 6 Mile NW has pumpkins each fall.

Paulson's Pumpkin Patch - The Belding-area farm sells pumpkins, squash and indian corn 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.

Post Family Farm - In Hudsonville, check out homemade donuts, cider, u-pick pumpkins, a corn maze, squash and gourds.

Robinette's Apple Haus - Located at the E. Beltline & 4 Mile, Robinette's has cider, donuts, u-pick apples, horse-drawn hayrides, gifts, a winery, kids activities and more.

Schwallier's Country Basket - The farm market on 9 Mile Rd in Sparta has u-pick pumpkins and apples, as well as a petting farm, picnic area, fresh cider, cow train rides and an observable working bee hive.

Sietsma Orchards - The family cider mill and farm on 2 Mile Rd in Ada has donuts, hard cider, free hayrides and u-pick apples (although no u-pick for 2012).

Steffens Orchards - Pick your own apples and pumpkins or build a scarecrow at the Scarecrow Factory at this orchard located on 13 Mile in Sparta. Open Monday-Saturday 10-6 and Sunday 12-6.

Watts Orchard - Apples and caramel apples in Howard City.

Wells Orchards - The farm on Kenowa SW in Grand Rapids has apples, hayrides, fall decorations, winter squash and more.

Kent Harvest Trails - The trails program highlights 19 participating farms in Kent County which offer local families the chance to visit farms for orchard tours, face painting, pumpkin picking, scarecrow stuffing and many more autumn activities with no general admission charge. Many farms do have fees for specific activities. The website includes a map with all participating locations.

Michigan Apple Orchards - Central West Michigan Route


Festivals & Family Activities

Chrysanthemums and More! - Formerly known at 'Colorfall', this annual celebration of the autumn season at Frederik Meijer Gardens features an extensive flowering chrysanthemum display both inside and outside. Color tours, tram rides and seasonal children’s activities are available throughout October. Tickets ($12 for adults, $4-$6 for kids) include access to all of The Gardens, including the curated ArtPrize exhibit.

Yee-Haw for Fall - Enjoy fall activities, pony rides, a zipline, midway games, stagecoach rides and more at the Double JJ Resort on Saturdays and Sundays through October. $10 for adults, $5 for kids.

Pumpkin Train - See The Great Pumpkin, Scarecrow and Little Crow on the Coopersville & Marne Railway. Local actress Eva Swietec and her cast of wacky characters will sing and dance during the approximately 1 hour, 15 minute ride and each child can pick a pumpkin from the pumpkin patch after the train returns to downtown Coopersville. Runs Saturdays and Sundays through October 30. Tickets: adults $14.50, seniors (60+) $13.50, kids (2-12) $11.50.

Scarecrows on Main Street - Visit Coopersville during the month of October to see imaginatively decorated scarecrows lining Main Street in the historic downtown and then vote for your favorite at the Farm Museum.

Zeeland Pumpkinfest - The three-day family festival in downtown Zeeland returns October 4, 5 & 6 with a parade, food, scarecrow display, games, family entertainment, artwork and more. Free admission.

Rockford Harvest Festival - For two weekends, October 6-7 & 13-14, celebrate fall in downtown Rockford with scarecrow making, live entertainment, face painting, hayrides and many more family-friendly activities.

Enchanted Forest Festival - Vist Fat Blossom Farm in Allegan for a magical weekend exploring trails while touring custom gnome homes, hobbit habitats, and fairy houses. You can even make your own. Cost is $5 per person.

Halloween Palooza - On October 6, families can enjoy costume shopping, games, cookies, cider, free spider rings and more from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at all Goodwill stores around the Grand Rapids area.

Grand Haven Historical Ghost Tour - Take an evening stroll through downtown Grand Haven October 11 and learn about the history of the historic parts of the city while enjoying a little ghostly fun and surprises along the way. Cost is $5 per person.

Wyoming Pumpkin Path - At the 9th Annual Pumpkin Path at Lamar Park in Wyoming, kids can collect prizes, candy and toys from dozens of Wyoming-area businesses, clubs and organizations on October 13. Costumes are optional. Free admission.

Lowell Harvest Festival - The annual fall celebration in downtown Lowell on October 13 features a chili cook-off, scarecrow building, arts, crafts, family activities and more. Free admission.

White Lake Pumpkinfest - The Downing Street Hill in downtown Montague is the site of the annual Pumpkin Roll taking place October 13. Other events include pumpkin painting, pumpkin bowling, a pumpkin pie contest, a youth art fair and a harvest fest. Free admission.

Monster Mash - At the members-only event at John Ball Zoo, it's The Zoo Goes Boo on steroids with live music, giant inflatable monsters, premier treats on the trick-or-treat trail, crafts and more.

The Zoo Goes Boo - The family Halloween event where kids can dress up an trick-or-treat returns to John Ball Zoo October 19, 20, 26, 27 & 28. New for 2012 is a Scarecrow Safari Contest. Admission: $7 per person.

Blandford Nature Center Fall Harvest Festival - The annual festival filled with pioneer-like activities like candle making returns October 20. Families can also enjoy live music and paint pumpkins. Admission is $5, kids 3 and under are free.

Kids Cooking Class: Harry Potter - At the Spartan Culinary Classroom, kids and adults will have the opportunity to prepare some classic Harry Potter recipes including: Hogwart's favorite "Pumpkin Juice", Mrs Weasley's Rock cakes, Butterbeer, Pumpkin Pasties and many more delicious delights.

Fall Festival Fundraiser and Craft Show - On October 20, the YMCA's Camp Manitou-Lin will host the family event that will have trick-or-treating, a petting farm, and crafts, along with ticketed activities like rock climbing and hayrides.

Giant Pumpkins at Michigan's Farm Garden - Discover giant pumpkins weighing in at hundreds of pounds at Frederik Meijer Gardens' Michigan's Farm Garden October 21. Included with general Gardens admission.

Cider Sundays - Bowens Mills in Middleville hosts cider pressing, cornmeal grinding demonstrations, horse-drawn rides, historical military encampments, live music and more on Sundays in October.

Aldersgate Halloween Party - Show off your Halloween costume early while enjoying games and treats at Aldersgate United Methodist Church October 24.

Ionia Autumn Celebration - The annual event attracts nearly 6,000 people to Main Street in Ionia with the Chili-Dawg Challenge, the chili-dog eating contest, the Meijer Costume Contest and trick-or-treating.

Ghosthunting Michigan - Ghosthunter Helen Pattskyn visits the Main Branch of the Grand Rapids Public Library to discuss ghosts, ghost hunting, and Michigan's haunted history. Free and open to the public.

Hallowee-ones - The annual event at Meijer Gardens October 26 is designed for the youngest visitors. Dress your child as a sculpture, tree, flower, insect or any other way that highlights something from the Children's Garden. Kids can join in the costume parade and listen to Halloween stories.

Trinity Halloween Festival - Enjoy a ghoulish light dinner, pumpkin carving, costume parade and more October 26 at Trinity United Methodist Church on Lake Drive in Eastown.

Ghoulfest Costume Contest and Concert - Presented by the Kent Philharmonia Orchestra at St. Cecilia on October 26, the costume contest followed by the symphony performance begins at 7:00 pm and is open to all ages. Tickets: $5 for adults, $3 for students (kids 10 & under free).

Run 4 Your Life 5K Fun Run - The un-timed 5K run/walk in Holland October 26 is a fundraising event to support the Holland Free Health Clinic. The Curragh Pub is the beginning and end point of the course which will wind through the spooky Windmill Island.

Harvest Party at KDL - Kent District Library's Kentwood branch will have autumn crafts, pumpkin decorating, games, and plenty of bountiful fun for all ages at 2 p.m. on Oct. 27.

Alger Heights Halloween 5K - On October 27 at 9 a.m., run through the rolling hills of the Alger Heights neighborhood in costume for this professionally timed race. There will also be a Kids' Fun Run, a costume contest, giveaways and prizes. Early registration is $18 online.

The Zombie Dash - During the wild 5K run through downtown Grand Rapids October 27, participants can either be a survivor/runner or a zombie. Cost for runners is $35, being a zombie is free. Unlimited registration.

Urban HayDay - For the first time, the orchard experience is coming to downtown Hudsonville for a day of hayrides, games, crafts, food, pumpkin carving and bowling, live animals and more. Admission is free.

Treats and Trails - Trick-or-treat along the trails of the Outdoor Discovery Center in Holland October 27. There will be wildlife encounters, face painting, candy, luminaries, costumes and more. Entry cost is $5 per vehicle.

Fantasy Land Halloween Party - At the Masonic Temple, families can watch movies, dance, play carnival games, and eat from 5-11 p.m. October 27. Admission is $5 for adults and $1 for kids with proceeds going to support the Children's Dyslexia Center of West Michigan.

Saugatuck Halloween Festival - Enjoy a day-long celebration of Halloween and the Fall season in Saugatuck October 27 with music, entertainment, the family costume parade and more. Free.

City of the Dead - Enjoy a ghostly funtastic night at Muskegon' Evergreen Cemetery and tour the grounds while local actors play prominent past Muskegon citizens. Tickets are $5.

Halloween Hoot - Show off your costume while playing games and winning prizes October 27 at East Grand Rapids Middle School.

Grand Haven Zombie Walk - The 2nd annual event is set for October 27 at 4 p.m. in downtown Grand Haven. Participants can dress like zombies and bring a canned or boxed food item that will be donated to a local food pantry.

2nd Annual Scaredy Pants Project - Zombies, witches, warlocks, ghosts and goblins will use an XC Trail Map to navigate from control point to control point along the lighted trails of the Muskegon Winter Sports Complex October 27. The supernatural team with the most CPs punched at the end of the haunt wins the race!

All Hallows Eve Celebration - Celebrate Halloween in a Victorian setting on October 27 at the Historic Charlton Park. Located east of Hastings, the attraction will have trick-or-treating, hayrides, cider and the annual judged costume parade. Cost is $3 per person (12 and under are free).

The Haunted Museum - For one afternoon prepare to be scared, as the Tri-Cities Historical Museum in Grand Haven will be haunted by members of the Central Park Players. Free admission.

Halloween is more fun with Fondue! - The Melting Pot at Celebration North will have a pumpkin decorating contest for kids 12 and under and kids in costumes can eat free.

A Holiday Spook-tacular - The West Michigan Concert WINDS present a concert of Halloween themed music October 28 at Reeths-Puffer High School in Muskegon. Costumes encouraged.

Marne Annual Halloween Open House - Visit the Wright Tallmadge Fire Department for an evening of haunted mazes, costumes, donuts, popcorn and spooky fun from 5-9 p.m. October 31.

Haunted Westgate - The Westgate neighborhood in Comstock Park is transformed from a seemingly quiet area into a Halloween wonderland boasting an impressive collection of yard haunts and festive decorations. More than a dozen homes showcase over-the-top themed decorations with names like Alien Invasion, Dead End Cemetery and The Haunting of Storybook Hollow. Free to tour; located just west of 131 and West River Drive. Map available on hauntedwestgate.com.


Entertainment & Arts

Thriller! Chiller! Film Festival - Michigan's premier film festival celebrating the genre movie runs three days at the Wealthy Theatre, October 18-20. Dozens of full-length films, shorts and cult classics will be shown. All-access weekend festival passes are $40; individual event tickets available.

Ringu - The Meanwhile Movie Series at the Wealthy Theatre continues October 23 with an 8 p.m. showing of 'Ringu', the horror flick that inspired "The Ring". Admission: $5-$6.

Psycho: The Musical - The Halloween Horror Musical Parody written by Joel L. Schindlbeck (based on the Alfred Hitchcock movie) will be performed by the Stark Turn Players October 25-27 at Dog Story Theater. Tickets are $12 for adults, $8 for students.

Halloween Hellraiser - 97.9 WGRD presents the free concert at Ah-Nab-Awen Park October 27 featuring Dead Sara, The Bangups, Fine Fine Titans and more. All ages welcome.

Halloween Burlesque - Super Happy Funtime, a vaudeville-style variety show featuring dancers, comedians, backed by the fabulous End Times Orchestra, is back October 27 at the Wealthy Theater for their brand new show 'Super Happy Goes to Hell'. Tickets are $15.

The Exorcist - The cult horror classic will be shown October 30 at the Wealthy Theatre as part of the Meanwhile Movie Series.

Night of the Living Dead - West Catholic High School performs the on-stage version of Night of the Living Dead at the Performing Arts Center at Aquinas College October 31-November 3. Tickets are $8 for general admission, $6 with student ID.


Trick-or-Treating

Children Museum's Trick-or-Treat! - On October 25 from 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m., kids can dress up in their favorite costumes and visit five different treat and activity stations. Admission is just $1.50 per person.

Trunk or Treat - St. Paul's Anglican Catholic Church on Lake Michigan Drive will have safe trick-or-treating, coffee, popcorn, apples, a costume contest, games and more from 4-6 p.m. on October 27.

Trunk or Treat - Byron Township Recreation presents the 8th annual Trunk or Treat at Whistletop Park on 76th. All ages are welcome for hayrides, entertainment, a petting zoo and treats.

Downtown Holland Merchants Trick-or-Treating - More than 30 merchants in downtown Holland will host trick-or-treating from 1 to 4 p.m. October 27.

Trunk or Treat for Children - Forest Hills Presbyterian Church will host the trunk or treat event for kids October 27 that will have games, a photo booth, activities and candy starting at 4:30 p.m.

Trunk or Treat - The free, safe, family event at Cascade Christian Church will have candy and games from 3-5 p.m. October 28.

Spooktacular and Trunk-N-Treat - Daybreak Church in Hudsonville will host a trunk-n-treat for the family at 10:30 a.m. and noon October 28, as well as a Spooktacular kids event at both worship services that day.

Eastown Halloween Walk - Neighborhood families are invited to the Eastown business district to trick-or-treat for free at local merchants from 5-7 p.m. Monday, October 29.

The Gilmore Spooktacular - On October 30, the Gilmore Car Museum will have trick-or-treating, hayrides, a costume contest, spooky stories and more. $5 for kids, parents are free.

October 31

Halloween Hoopla - Children can trick-or-treat inside Woodland Mall from 3-5 p.m. October 31. Free.

No Fear Here alternative Halloween Party - Dress in your favorite non-scary costume for trick-or-treating, food and candy October 31 at Madison Square Church.

Trunk or Treat - From 6-8 p.m. at Hope Reformed Church at Kalamazoo & Burton SE.

Wyoming Park Bible Trunk-or-Treat - The church on Porter SW in Wyoming will team up with the United Methodist Church next door for a trunk-or-treat event from 6:30-8 p.m. Oct 31.

Hallowed Halls - Kids can trick-or-treat inside the halls of Wayland High School, go through a haunted house, enter a costume contest and more from 5-7 p.m. on Oct 31.

West Shore Mall - The Mall in Holland will have trick-or-treating from 5-6 p.m. Oct 31.

Trunk or Treat Fall Festival - Now moved indoors due to the weather, First Baptist Church of Middleville on M-37 will have games, prizes, snacks and more from 7-9 p.m.

Dates and Times:

  • Ada: Does not set a time
  • Allegan: Oct 31, 5-8 p.m.
  • Allendale: does not set a specific time
  • Belding: Fire dept. open house Oct 31, 6-8 p.m.
  • Belmont: does not set a date or time
  • Caledonia: October 31, 6-8p
  • Cannon Twp: Oct 31, 6-8 p.m.
  • Cascade Twp: Fire station party Oct 31, 5:30 to 8 p.m.
  • Cedar Springs: Oct 31, 6-8 p.m.
  • Coopersville: Oct 31, 6-8 p.m.
  • East Grand Rapids: October 31, 6-8 p.m.
  • Ferrysburg: Oct 31, 6-8 p.m.
  • Fremont: Oct 31, 6-8 p.m.
  • Gaines Township: Oct 31, 6-8 p.m.
  • Grandville: October 31, 6-8 p.m.
  • Grand Haven: Oct 31, 6-8 p.m.
  • Grand Rapids: October 31, dusk until 8 p.m.
  • Greenville: Oct 31; business 3:30-5, neighborhood 6-8 p.m.
  • Hastings: Oct 31, 6-8 p.m.
  • Holland: Oct 31, 5-7 p.m.
  • Hudsonville: does not set a date or time
  • Ionia: October 31, 6-8p
  • Jenison: Oct 31
  • Kentwood: October 31, 6-8p
  • Lowell: October 31, 5:30-8 p.m.
  • Middleville: Oct 31, dusk
  • Muskegon: October 31, 6-8p
  • Newaygo: Oct 31, 6-8 p.m.
  • Orangeville: parental discretion
  • Plainfield Township: does not set a date or a time
  • Rockford: October 31, 5:30p-8p
  • Roosevelt Park: October 31, 5:30p-7p
  • Sparta: Oct 31, 5:30-8 p.m.
  • Spring Lake: Oct 31, 6-8p
  • Standale: Oct 31, does not set a time
  • Walker: Oct 31, does not set a time
  • Wayland: Oct 31, 5:30-8 p.m.
  • Wyoming: Oct 31, dusk
  • Yankee Springs Twp: parental discretion
  • Zeeland: Oct 31, 5-8 p.m.


Costume Shops

Kostume Room - Located in Wyoming at 835 36th St SW (36th & Clyde Park). 616.530.5904.

Theatricks - Located on Plainfield Ave, just north of Knapp St. 616.363.4259.



Fall Color Tours

Starting from Grand Rapids - The West Michigan Tourist Association's Color Tour 9 begins at the East Beltine and circles around most of the GR metro area: head north on the E. Beltline (M-44) as it turns into Northland Dr and then continue through Rockford to Cedar Springs. Go west on M-46, south on CR-B35 (Ravenna Rd) through Ravenna to Coopersville. Then left on Randall Rd, right on 48th Ave. I-96 east back to Grand Rapids.

Starting from Ada - WMTA's Color Tour 10 starts at the Covered Bridge in Ada and continues through Lowell and Greenville: M-21 east, south on Ada Dr, east on Bronson to view Ada Covered Bridge. Left on Thornapple River Dr, right on Ada Dr to M-21 east. North on Hudson (becomes Lincoln Lake Ave). East on Fallasburg County Park Rd, follow signs to cross Fallasburg Covered Bridge. Right on McPherson (becomes Potters Rd), north on Whites Bridge Rd (becomes gravel) across Whites Covered Bridge. East on Belding Rd (also M-44), north on M-91, east on M-46. South on M-66 to Ionia, west on M-21 to Ada.

Grand Haven to Grandville - Tour 8 on WMTA's list begins on Robbins Rd in Grand Haven: Robbins Rd east to Mercury Dr past Grand River bayous to Riverside Park (becomes Green St, then North Cedar Dr). South on 104th Ave, east on Osborn St (becomes Warner). South on 68th St, east on M-45. South onto 48th St, east on Fillmore (becomes Cottonwood Dr). In Jenison, left on Baldwin, left on Chicago Dr. In Grandville, left on Wilson to M-11/28th St, left onto M-11 northbound. Left on Fennesey St (becomes Luce St, then Linden Dr). Left on Leonard St through Spring Lake to Grand Haven.



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Last Updated: 10/31/2012
Published: 09/26/2012