It would be a sin to let the season slip by without celebrating, so find a costume, put on your best scowl, and read this article.
Here are some places you can go to get your fix of the freaky and fabulous this Halloween.
Travel-Worthy
1. Terror Behind the Walls
September 23 – November 12
Monsters, ghosts, and criminals, oh my! Pennsylvania’s Eastern State Penitentiary was active for over 140 years and held the likes of Al Capone. Today it is a National Historic Landmark and gives tours daily. It is converted into a haunted house every Halloween.
2. The Forest of Fear
October 7-30
During Halloween, Sterling Forest, home of the New York Renaissance Faire, turns their side of the woods into a chilling wonderland. This Twisted Carnival boasts a Slaughterhouse Sideshow with death-defying stunts, pyromania glory, and acts by Cavalcade of the Odd featuring Insectavoria. Check out the haunted house and coffin amusement park ride. But be careful, you might find yourself running from a jilted bride with a chainsaw!
3. The Rocky Horror Show “Live at Havana’s”
October 21, 27, 28, 30, 31
Head on down to New Hope for a live performance of The Rocky Horror Show. Don’t forget to bring your water pistols and toast!
4. Philly Zombie Crawl
Next event: Easter Sunday
I recently found myself at Zombie Prom, kicking off the Halloween season among severed limbs and the tattooed undead. This event was just one part of the Philly Zombie triptych. They don’t have anything else planned this season, but browse their website and make your Halloween last all year!
5. NYC’s Annual Village Halloween Parade
October 31
Get your blood curdling at this atypical parade. Giant papier-mâché monsters, bands, and dancers take over the streets. Anyone dressed in costume is welcome to join!
Staying Local
If scary’s not your thing, head to the orchards in Princeton for apple and pumpkin picking. While you’re at it, grab a bite of the famed Terhune donuts, apple cider, or blueberry wine.
Don’t graduate without once exploring Lambertville, located on the New Jersey side of the bridge to New Hope. Go back in time to 1900 by participating in the Living History Farm’s reenactments or invoke your inner child at the themed corn maze, pumpkin patch, and hayride.
Campus Life
1. ABE Haunted Hous
e
Every year, students go wild with fake blood and spine-tingling sound effects in the basement of Eli, Allen, and Brewster. Take a walk through the student-run haunted dorm or offer to help set up.
2. A Very Scary Halloween Coffeehouse
October 28
INK, TCNJ’s creative writing organization, holds an annual Halloween Coffeehouse. They welcome all you little devils who turn morbid thoughts into poetry…and those of you who just want to listen! Get your pants scared off at 8 pm in the T/W link.
3. Halloween Haunt at Dorney Park
October 28
CUB is sponsoring a bus trip to Dorney Park. Make your way through haunted mazes such as The Asylum, Psycho Circus, and Club Blood. Don’t miss performances by the professional lunatic and the band Eternal Jamnation. Grab a seat at the BSC box office, buckle up, and hold on tight.
4. Greeting Trick-or-Treaters
Revisit childhood memories of trick-or-treating from the other side of the interaction. Stock up on some prepackaged treats to hand out to the costumed cuties ringing your doorbell.
Whatever you do, have a bloody good time!