Discover Vermont’s Spookiest Halloween Activities

When the leaves turn fiery red and golden yellow, Vermont transforms into the perfect Halloween backdrop. From historic ghost stories to pumpkin festivals and lively parades, the Green Mountain State offers a wide range of ways to celebrate the spooky season. Whether you are a family with kids, a couple looking for something eerie, or a traveler seeking out Vermont’s haunted legends, there is something here for everyone.

Why Vermont is Perfect for Halloween

Vermont’s fall foliage sets the stage for unforgettable Halloween adventures. The crisp air, covered bridges, and historic towns lend themselves naturally to ghost stories and haunted happenings. The state balances spooky thrills with family-friendly traditions, making October one of the best times to visit.

Haunted Attractions and Ghost Tours

Emily’s Bridge in Stowe

One of Vermont’s most famous haunted sites is Emily’s Bridge, a covered bridge in Stowe with a chilling legend. Visitors have reported strange noises, ghostly figures, and eerie feelings when crossing the bridge at night. It is a favorite stop for those seeking a classic Vermont ghost story during Halloween.

Wilson Castle Haunted Tours in Proctor

Wilson Castle in Proctor is a 19th-century mansion known for its elaborate architecture and paranormal activity. During October, the castle often hosts haunted tours that bring its ghostly reputation to life. The atmosphere of this historic landmark makes it a must-visit for Halloween enthusiasts.

Norwich Inn Ghost Tours

The Norwich Inn, dating back to the late 1700s, is known for its resident spirits. Guided tours during Halloween highlight tales of mysterious happenings, unexplained sounds, and chilling encounters. It is a great choice if you want a blend of history and haunted storytelling.

Family-Friendly Halloween Festivals and Events

Pumpkin Festivals

Vermont takes pumpkins seriously in October. Local farms and towns host festivals with carving contests, pumpkin displays, and activities for kids. While the Keene Pumpkin Festival across the border in New Hampshire often draws attention, Vermont has its own smaller but equally festive celebrations worth checking out.

Trick-or-Treat in Downtowns

Many Vermont towns host safe trick-or-treat events where local businesses hand out candy. Montpelier and Burlington both offer popular downtown trick-or-treat walks, making it easy for families to enjoy Halloween in a fun and welcoming atmosphere.

Corn Mazes and Hayrides

The Great Vermont Corn Maze in Danville is a seasonal favorite, offering both family-friendly daytime adventures and haunted nighttime experiences. Around the state, farms add haunted hayrides to their fall attractions, with spooky stops and costumed actors to keep visitors on edge.

Spooky Seasonal Performances and Parades

Middlebury Halloween Parade

Middlebury comes alive each Halloween with a festive parade featuring costumes, music, and community spirit. It is a great way for families and visitors to experience Vermont’s small-town charm while celebrating the holiday.

Rutland Halloween Parade

Rutland’s Halloween Parade is legendary. First held in 1960, it has grown into one of the oldest and most popular Halloween parades in the country. Thousands of people line the streets every year to watch floats, bands, and creative costumes. It is one of the highlights of Halloween in Vermont.

Theatrical Shows and Haunted Plays

Vermont’s theaters and colleges often stage spooky performances in October. From haunted plays to gothic storytelling, these shows provide a cultural twist on the Halloween season. Burlington, Middlebury, and Montpelier are good places to look for seasonal performances.

Halloween in the Champlain Valley

The Champlain Valley offers a mix of farm attractions and city nightlife. In South Hero and Shelburne, farms turn into haunted attractions with hayrides and pumpkin picking. Burlington brings the energy with Halloween parties, bar crawls, and live music events that last well into the night.

Halloween in the Green Mountains and Northeast Kingdom

Vermont’s mountain towns and rural Northeast Kingdom lean into the haunted atmosphere of October. Stowe offers ghost walks that highlight its spooky history. Danville’s Great Vermont Corn Maze hosts haunted nights for thrill-seekers. Smaller communities host storytelling nights and haunted trails, offering a more intimate Halloween experience.

Tips for Planning Your Vermont Halloween Adventure

• Dress warmly: Vermont nights in October can get chilly, especially if you are attending outdoor events.
• Book ahead: Haunted tours and popular parades can fill up quickly, so make reservations early.
• Combine foliage and Halloween: Plan a scenic drive through Vermont’s countryside to enjoy peak foliage alongside spooky stops.

Final Thoughts: Vermont’s Halloween Magic

Halloween in Vermont is unlike anywhere else. The state’s natural beauty blends seamlessly with its historic charm to create an atmosphere that is both spooky and welcoming. Whether you are wandering through a haunted corn maze, watching a parade, or exploring ghostly legends, Vermont offers the perfect mix of fright and fun.