Unique Halloween events pop up all over the country during the month of October. There are all different kinds of themes, limited only by the imaginations of the many people who are dedicated to the scariest time of year. Theme parks, haunted houses, escape rooms, haunted mazes, costume parties, and more are open to the public all month, and here are some of the must-see Halloween events that residents and visitors of Sedona alike are sure to enjoy. Here is your guide for the best Things to Do for Halloween in Sedona.
The Haunted Halloween Express
Happening on Halloween proper, the Haunted Halloween Express is an event that’s friendly for all ages. The Verde Canyon Railroad runs along a scenic route that, while enjoyable during all times of the year, is a perfect accompaniment for a Halloween event packed full of scary stories and spooky events. Show up in costume for a chance to win a variety of prizes, as the staff will be on the lookout for different kinds of costumes to award prizes to. Whether your costume is the scariest, funniest, most bizarre, or fits some other kind of category, everyone has a chance to win. People who enjoy folklore especially enjoy this railway tour, as many of the staff will be telling stories throughout the journey about the haunted history of northern Arizona and more. Be sure to get your ticket to this one-of-a-kind event and see the Verde Canyon Railroad from a unique perspective.
More Than Halloween in Sedona: Sedona Fall Colors Tour
Another tour that runs on the Verde Canyon Railroad, the Sedona Fall Colors tour is a pleasant, laid-back experience that runs from October through November. Treat yourself to panoramic window view in comfy seating as the railway tour runs, providing you with a prime viewing experience during what is often considered to be one of the best times of the year to see northern Arizona. This is a great tour to take for anyone looking to snap nature pictures, as well, as the train does have open air cars with a great view. While you take in the sights and snap the perfect photo, enjoy seasonal specialty cocktails on behalf of the on-board bartender. Be sure to reserve your ride, whether you’re general boarding, first class, or even a private party aboard the caboose.
Shopping, Costume Parade, and Día de Los Muertos at Tlaquepaque
The Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village is an iconic, must-see location for trips during any time of the year in Sedona. It offers a wide variety of unique goods and impressive artwork in addition to hosting all kinds of events, weddings, and more. If you’re stopping by for any of the seasonal events, be sure to do some shopping, as you can be certain that you’ll find goods that are appropriately themed for the holiday, and you might find the perfect, unique piece you’ve been looking for.
Sponsored by the Humane Society of Sedona, the Howl-O-Ween Costume Parade is an animal friendly event for a great cause. Both costumed people and animals can participate in the parade, as well as some small size floats, and there are three $100 prizes for the costume contest. The parade runs for roughly two hours, and individual entry runs at $10, $20 for groups and/or businesses. All proceeds from the parade go to finding homes for homeless animals.
Running strong for eleven years, the Día de Los Muertos celebration at Tlaquepaque has quickly become one of the most exciting events to attend in Sedona. Festivities run from 4pm – 8pm on October 30th, and the event is loaded with all different kinds of cultural attractions. Mural painting, music, traditional foods, jugglers, acrobats, fire dancers, and more all make an appearance for the party, and the festival encourages people of all ages to dress up and bring offerings for the main public altar.
The Haunted Town of Jerome
Jerome goes all out for Halloween and is a short drive away from Sedona. Famous for being a haunted town, there’s plenty of Halloween friendly attractions to see. Several different kinds of ghost tours, known as Spirit Walks, are open for business for curious minds. Expect to hear tales of the storied history of several haunted buildings, including some of the hotels that you can stay in, and learn about the storied history of the town.
There’s plenty of lively partying to be had as well. Between a Halloween themed dance party at “Spook Hall” and a Halloween Ball hosted by the fire department, there’s no shortage of fun to be had. Even if you don’t make it to any of the events, the whole town is decorated from top to bottom for the season.
Book a Stay and Enjoy The Best Things to Do for Halloween in Sedona
Don’t miss what northern Arizona has to offer this Halloween season. Book your stay and see all of the unique experiences the area has in store for you this Halloween in Sedona.
