Fall is finally here, and there are so many fun things to do in the D.C. area this time of year. With Halloween just around the corner, ghost tours and costume parties abound— and you won't want to miss out on the fun. We've rounded up a list of some of the top ways to celebrate this spooky season right here in the DMV area.
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Go on a Ghost Tour
Some say D.C. is a hot spot for spirit sightings, and there are plenty of tours through the most haunted areas of the city. From the ghosts of Abe Lincoln to the specter of Dolley Madison, these peeks into the past are sure to excite. There are also fun tours across the border in Maryland and Northern Virginia.
1) Take a Soul Stroll
Tour the Congressional Cemetery on a spooky journey through the past. For just two more nights, (Oct. 27th-28th) you can take a nighttime stroll to learn some stories and secrets of the cemetery's "residents." Enjoy refreshments in the historic Congressional Cemetery Chapel before your hour-long tour. For more information, or to purchase tickets, click here.
2) The Most Haunted Houses
Discover one of the most haunted hot spots in the nation's capital on a guided ghost tour through Lafayette Park. For hundreds of years, this part of D.C. has been steeped in mystery. Knowledgeable guides will lead you through the history behind the ghost stories that gave the park its reputation. For more information, check out the Washington Walks website.
3) Alexandria's Original Ghost & Graveyard Tour
While these tours do run year-round, they're extra fun during the month of October. Costumed guides will take you on a tour by lantern light as they tell ghost stories, legends, and folktales. There are 7:30 pm tours daily, with an extra 9:00 pm tour on Fridays and Saturdays this month. To learn more about these tours, ticket prices, and historic Old Town Alexandria, click here.
Spooky Parties
Halloween parties are always a blast with fun costumes, food, and fall festivities. The D.C. area is killer when it comes to organizing these events, and we picked out a few of our favorites.
4) Dia de Los Muertos
Celebrate the Day of the Dead at this family-friendly festival. Hosted by the Petworth Arts Collaborative, the event will take place on October 28th, November 1st, and November 3rd. Featuring fun shows and activities along Georgia Avenue and Upshur Street, attendees can learn all about Dia de Los Muertos and how it's celebrated. For more information about the event check out the Petworth Arts website.
5) Nightmare on M Street
An annual D.C. staple, this costumed bar crawl through Dupont Circle takes you to the hottest spots in the neighborhood. This year, it takes place on October 28th from 2-8 pm. For a complete list of participating bars, tickets, and more information, click here.
Bars & Brews
Between the themed drinks and costume parties, October is a fantastic time of year for night life, and the D.C. bar scene does not disappoint. Whether it's a pop-up bar or a tenured local favorite, there are a few worth checking out- if only for the pumpkin spice and seasonal decor.
6) PUB Dread
If you're in the market for an extravagantly Halloween bar experience, PUB Dread is a can't-miss. This pop-up will be open for October only, serving up spooky specialty cocktails. A selection of beers, wines, and alcohol-free refreshments will also be available.
The bar is hosting a ticketed Halloween party on the 31st— All ticket proceeds will be donated to World Central Kitchen, which is currently working to provide relief to those affected by Hurricane Maria.
7) Trick and Treat: Chocolate and Beer Pairing
Head down to the New District Brewing Company on October 28th for a chocolate and beer pairing treat.The brewery has partnered with local chocolatier Artisan Confections to serve up delicious pairings from 2-6 pm. For details and ticket prices, click here.
Halloween has something fun for everyone, and the D.C. area really delivers. From parties to bar crawls to ghost tours, there's no shortage of Halloween events. These attractions offer the best of the D.C. area within metro or walking distance, so getting to the party is easy. Be sure you're taking advantage of all your neighborhood has to offer this season!
