Alternative Things to Do in Northern Virginia on Halloween Besides Trick-or-Treating (2026)

 

The majority of us have fond memories of knocking on doors and loading up on candy on Halloween, but as we get older, some of us are looking for alternatives on the spookiest night of the year.

This year, Halloween falls on Saturday, October 31, making it the perfect opportunity to explore a local attraction, enjoy a spooky outdoor adventure, or attend a family-friendly Halloween celebration.

From Centreville and Fairfax to Vienna, Great Falls, and McLean, Northern Virginia has options for kids, teens, couples, and adults looking for something different to do on Halloween night.

Here are some (somewhat) sugar-free activities happening or available on Saturday, October 31, 2026, with locations, times, prices, and links to help you plan your day.

1. Watch Hocus Pocus at Mosaic District

Location: Strawberry Park, Mosaic District, Fairfax, VA
Date: Saturday, October 31, 2026
Time: Halloween festivities begin at 4 p.m.; outdoor movie begins at 6 p.m.
Price: Free admission.
Website: Mosaic District

If you love Halloween movies, head to Mosaic District for its Halloween Spooktacular.

The evening includes Halloween festivities and an outdoor screening of Hocus Pocus at Strawberry Park. You can grab dinner at one of the district's restaurants, browse local shops, and then settle in for the movie.

Bring blankets or lawn chairs, dress for the weather, and arrive early to find a good viewing spot.

Best for: Families, couples, and movie lovers looking for a free Halloween activity.

2. Take a Guided Halloween Hike at Riverbend Park

Location: 8700 Potomac Hills Street, Great Falls, VA
Date: Saturday, October 31, 2026
Time: 7–8:30 p.m.
Price: $12 per person.
Website: Halloween in the Hollows — Fairfax County Park Authority

For a Halloween experience with a nature twist, consider Halloween in the Hollows at Riverbend Park.

Participants join a guided evening hike along the Follow the Hollows Trail, learning about animals associated with Halloween, including bats, toads, salamanders, spiders, and owls.

The experience ends around a cozy fire with s'mores, making it a memorable way to celebrate the holiday outdoors.

Important: The official event page currently says registration is not accepting new participants. Check for cancellations or openings before making plans.

Best for: Nature lovers, families with older children, and anyone who wants an alternative to a haunted house.

3. Attend the Great Falls Halloween Spooktacular

Location: Great Falls Village Centre Green, 754-C Walker Road, Great Falls, VA
Date: Saturday, October 31, 2026
Price: Free.
Website: Great Falls Village Centre

Great Falls Village Centre hosts a community Halloween Spooktacular that brings local families together for seasonal fun.

The event features Halloween festivities, a costume parade for pets, and activities for children. It's an opportunity to enjoy the neighborhood atmosphere, see creative costumes, and connect with the local community.

Check the organizer's event page for the latest schedule, including parade times and other activities.

Best for: Families, dog owners, and anyone looking for a community-centered Halloween celebration.

4. Enjoy the Festival of Frights at the Old Firehouse in McLean

Location: The Old Firehouse, 1440 Chain Bridge Road, McLean, VA
Date: Saturday, October 31, 2026
Time: 5–8 p.m.
Price: Free admission. Food purchases may cost extra.
Website: OFC's Festival of Frights & Trunk or Treat

The Old Firehouse in McLean is hosting a Halloween evening filled with live music, games, food, contests, and festive activities.

It's a convenient option for families who want to celebrate close to home without purchasing tickets to a haunted attraction.

Children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult.

Best for: Families, school-age children, and neighbors looking for an affordable Halloween event.

5. Get Hands-On at the Children's Science Center Haunted Lab

Location: Children's Science Center Lab, Fair Oaks Mall, Fairfax, VA
Date: Saturday, October 31, 2026
Session options: 10 a.m.–noon, 1–3 p.m., or 3:30–5:30 p.m.
Price: $15 general admission; save $2 per ticket when purchasing online.
Website: Children's Science Center Lab — Haunted Lab

Halloween can be a great opportunity to combine fun with learning.

The Children's Science Center Lab's Haunted Lab experience features hands-on STEM activities, glowing creatures to discover using ultraviolet flashlights, toy spiders launched onto a giant web, and a musical Spooky Slime Piano.

Children who visit in costume receive a prize.

The Lab uses timed entry sessions, and advance reservations are recommended because space is limited.

Best for: Families with children ages 2–12 who enjoy science, experiments, and interactive activities.

6. Make Halloween a Neighborhood Celebration

Location: Your home or neighborhood
Date: Saturday, October 31, 2026
Price: Flexible, depending on your budget.

If you'd rather skip crowded attractions, you can still make Halloween memorable by organizing a small gathering at home.

Here are a few easy ideas:

• Pumpkin decorating contest: Supply pumpkins, paint, stickers, and markers, then vote on the most creative design.
• Halloween movie night: Set up a projector, blankets, popcorn, and a favorite spooky movie.
• Costume contest: Award prizes for the funniest, scariest, and most creative costumes.
• Spooky scavenger hunt: Hide Halloween-themed objects around the yard and create clues for children to solve.
• Seasonal dessert bar: Serve caramel apples, Halloween cookies, cupcakes, and warm apple cider.

A neighborhood gathering is also a great way to meet new neighbors and strengthen connections within your community.

Best for: Homeowners, families, and anyone who wants a flexible, budget-friendly celebration.

Make the Most of Halloween in Northern Virginia

From haunted trails in Centreville to community celebrations in Great Falls and interactive science activities in Fairfax, Northern Virginia offers plenty of ways to enjoy Halloween beyond traditional trick-or-treating.

Some events are free, while others require advance tickets or registration. Check official websites before leaving home, especially for evening events and activities with limited capacity.

And if you're considering a move to Northern Virginia, exploring local parks, community events, and neighborhood traditions is a great way to discover what makes the area such a special place to live.

Think buying or selling your home is too scary to do on your own? Reach out today to learn more about local neighborhoods, family-friendly communities, and the Northern Virginia real estate market.