Halloween in Jacksonville, FL

As the cool breeze of autumn rolls into Jacksonville, so does the excitement of Halloween! Whether you’re a fan of spooky ghost tours, family-friendly pumpkin patches, or chilling haunted houses, Jacksonville has a variety of Halloween events sure to thrill everyone in your crew. With celebrations scattered throughout the city and just a short drive away, there’s something for every age and scare level. Get ready for a spooky season filled with fun! Here are some of the best local Halloween events within a 30-minute drive from Jacksonville, FL.

1. Ghost Tours of St. Augustine

Only a short drive from Jacksonville, St. Augustine is home to some of the oldest and spookiest stories in Florida. The Ghost Tours of St. Augustine offers a historic and haunted adventure through the nation’s oldest city. With a rich history of pirate tales, colonial buildings, and paranormal activity, this tour promises to send shivers down your spine. These guided tours take you through eerie streets, past haunted landmarks, and into some of the most famous haunted sites. It’s a spooky yet educational experience, perfect for anyone wanting a Halloween activity that’s a little less traditional.

2. Spooktacular at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens

For families looking for a more kid-friendly event, Spooktacular at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is a fantastic choice. This annual event transforms the zoo into a haunted wonderland filled with Halloween-themed lights, characters, and candy stations. Children (and adults!) can dress up in costumes, trick-or-treat through different zones, and enjoy a not-too-spooky atmosphere. From Halloween-themed exhibits to spooky animal encounters, this event promises a fun, safe, and memorable night for families of all ages.

3. Haunt Nights at Adventure Landing

Looking for some thrills and chills? Haunt Nights at Adventure Landing is a must-visit. This event offers multiple haunted houses, each with its own terrifying theme and storyline. Whether you’re dodging chainsaw-wielding clowns or escaping a zombie apocalypse, there’s no shortage of heart-pounding experiences. In addition to the haunted houses, Adventure Landing also offers other Halloween attractions like mini-golf and laser tag, making it a great option for groups looking for variety in their Halloween festivities.

4. Halloween at The Avenues Mall

For those looking to combine a little shopping with some spooky fun, Halloween at The Avenues Mall is the place to be. Each year, the mall hosts a free Halloween event featuring trick-or-treating, costume contests, and live entertainment. Local stores hand out candy to trick-or-treaters, and there are even special sales and promotions. It’s a fun, indoor option for families looking to stay out of the unpredictable Florida weather while still enjoying the spirit of Halloween.

5. Pumpkin Fest at Orange Park

Pumpkin Fest at Orange Park, just a short drive from Jacksonville, is the quintessential fall event. While it’s not just focused on Halloween, this festival is the perfect way to get into the seasonal spirit. With a pumpkin patch, local vendors, food trucks, and live music, Pumpkin Fest offers a little something for everyone. Children will love the inflatable bounce houses and hayrides, while adults can browse local craft booths or enjoy the various food options. Don’t forget to pick out a pumpkin to take home and carve for Halloween!

6. Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios

While slightly beyond the 30-minute range, Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights in Orlando is worth the trip for anyone seeking the ultimate scare. Known for its movie-quality haunted houses and terrifying scare zones, this event is not for the faint of heart. With new attractions each year based on popular horror films and TV shows, Halloween Horror Nights is one of the most iconic Halloween events in Florida. It’s perfect for thrill-seekers looking for an adrenaline-pumping adventure!

7. Halloween on the Riverwalk in Jacksonville

For those who prefer staying local, Halloween on the Riverwalk offers a scenic, family-friendly way to celebrate the season. Located along the St. Johns River, this event features trick-or-treating, live performances, and a costume parade. It’s a laid-back yet festive event, perfect for an evening stroll while taking in the Halloween decorations and enjoying the river views. It’s an excellent choice for families or those looking to enjoy the Halloween spirit without any major scares.

8. Ghosts of Mayport: A Haunted History Tour

If you’re interested in a little history with your Halloween scares, the Ghosts of Mayport tour is a fascinating and spooky way to spend an evening. Just a short drive from Jacksonville, the tour takes you through the old fishing village of Mayport, with eerie stories of shipwrecks, pirates, and ghostly apparitions. This walking tour provides a mix of local history and paranormal lore, making it a unique and engaging way to experience Halloween close to home.

9. Pumpkin Carving Party at Riverside Arts Market

For those looking for a creative Halloween event, the Pumpkin Carving Party at the Riverside Arts Market is the perfect opportunity to show off your artistic skills. Attendees can pick a pumpkin and join in on the fun while surrounded by local art vendors and delicious food trucks. The market offers a family-friendly environment with live music and festive decorations, making it a great place to spend an autumn afternoon.

10. Halloween Movie Nights at Beaches Town Center

Halloween Movie Nights at Beaches Town Center offers a relaxing and fun way to celebrate the season. Located just minutes from Jacksonville, this event features outdoor screenings of classic Halloween movies in a charming beachfront setting. Families can bring blankets and chairs to enjoy films under the stars, complete with popcorn and themed treats. It’s an excellent choice for those looking for a low-key Halloween celebration with the whole family.

Celebrate Halloween Your Way with Keith Pierson Toyota

Whether you’re into haunted houses, ghost tours, or family-friendly pumpkin patches, Jacksonville offers an incredible variety of Halloween celebrations for everyone. The season’s spooky spirit is alive and well with plenty of events just a short drive from the city. No matter what your Halloween preferences are, there’s an event waiting for you. And when you’re ready to explore Jacksonville or head out to the surrounding areas for these celebrations, visit Keith Pierson Toyota to find the perfect ride for all your holiday adventures!

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