Halloween Fun, Fall Festivities & Frugal-ish Finds!
Halloween weekend is officially here, Lancaster County! 🎃 And whether you're looking to entertain the kiddos, embrace your spooky side, or enjoy a much-needed adults' night out, there's plenty happening around town! I've rounded up a little bit of everything this week…from FREE family festivities and fireworks to ghost tours, line dancing, and an evening of boos and brews. Because having fun shouldn't require frightening your bank account.
This Weekend in Lancaster County: October 29 - 31 🍁
Jack Frost Children's Costume Parade - Ephrata
When: Wednesday, October 28 | 7 PM Please Note: The organizer's linked page still displays the 2025 event information. Confirm this year's parade details before attending.
Where: Ephrata VFW Post 3376, 141 S. State Street, Ephrata, PA
Admission: FREE!
Event Link: Jack Frost Parade | ephratavfw
A beloved Ephrata Halloween tradition! Children can show off their costumes in the Jack Frost Parade, with prizes, community fun, and a festive atmosphere. The VFW's published parade information also describes a trunk-or-treat following the parade.
Stargazing at Millport - Lititz 🔭
When: Thursday, October 29 | 7–9 PM
Where: Marietta Community House “Crypt,” 264 W. Market Street, Marietta, PA
Admission: FREE!
Event Link: Stargazing at Millport - North Museum
Looking for something a little different this Halloween season? Join North Museum for a spooktacular evening under the stars! Explore the night sky through telescopes, catch a glimpse of Saturn's rings, and learn about the mysterious Demon Star. Costumes are encouraged, so bundle up, bring a lawn chair, and enjoy a little celestial Halloween magic. Good to Know: Weather permitting. Any cancellation will be announced by 2 PM on October 29.
Trick or Treat on the Farm - Cherry Crest Adventure Farm
When: Friday, October 30 | Trick-or-Treating 4–6 PM
Where: 150 Cherry Hill Road, Ronks, PA
Admission: Included with paid farm admission
Event Link: Fall Activities & Corn Maze for Adults in Lancaster PA | Cherry Crest
Trade the neighborhood sidewalks for a little farm-style Halloween fun! Kids ages 12 and under can collect candy around Cherry Crest Adventure Farm while enjoying the farm's attractions. Costumes are encouraged, and there's plenty of fun for the whole family. Stick around after trick-or-treating because the evening ends with fireworks at 8:30 PM!💸 Frugal-ish Tip: Make the most of your admission by enjoying the farm attractions, trick-or-treating, and fireworks during the same visit. Eligible military visitors can also receive discounted gate admission with valid ID.
Fireworks at Cherry Crest Adventure Farm 🎆
When: Friday, October 30 & Saturday, October 31 | 8:30 PM
Where: 150 Cherry Hill Road, Ronks, PA
Admission: Included with paid farm admission
Event Link: Fall Activities & Corn Maze for Adults in Lancaster PA | Cherry Crest
Who says fireworks are just for the Fourth of July? Cherry Crest is lighting up the Halloween weekend sky with two evenings of fireworks. Enjoy a day of fall fun at the farm and finish it with a colorful nighttime show.💸 Frugal-ish Tip: The fireworks are included with farm admission, so there's no separate fireworks ticket required.
Ephrata Shadows - Historic Ghost Tours
When: Friday, October 30 & Saturday, October 31 | 6:30 PM & 8:30 PM departures
Where: Downtown Ephrata, PA
Admission: $15 walking tours | $25 optional Ghost Hunt add-on
Event Link: Ephrata Shadows 2026 - Mainspring of Ephrata
A little local history, a little mystery, and maybe a ghost story or two! Follow cloaked guides through downtown Ephrata as they share eerie legends, unexplained happenings, and fascinating stories about the town's historic buildings. Choose between the East End and West End walking tours, or add a paranormal investigation experience for an extra dose of spooky. Good to Know: The walking tours are listed for ages 16 and up. Wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather—tours run rain or shine.
Boos & Brews 2026 - Lancaster (21+ event)
When: Friday, October 30 | 6–10 PM (VIP entry at 5 PM)
Where: Penn Medicine Park, 650 N. Prince Street, Lancaster, PA
Admission: General $40 | VIP $55 | Designated Driver $10, plus fees - Proceeds benefit Rotary community projects.
Event Link: Boos and Brews 2026 - Penn Medicine Park
Because Halloween isn't just for the kids! 🍻Grab your costume and your favorite people for a night of beer, wine, and spirits sampling at Penn Medicine Park. With more than 30 participating vendors, live music, a costume contest, and a souvenir sampling glass included with general admission, this is one Halloween party that's strictly for the grown-ups. 💸 Frugal-ish Tip: The $10 designated-driver ticket provides access to the entertainment and festivities without alcohol service.
Community Day, Car Show & Trunk or Treat - Lancaster
When: Saturday, October 31 | 10 AM–2 PM
Where: Grace Church, 911 Rohrerstown Road, Lancaster, PA
Admission: FREE
Event Link: Home | Grace Church Lancaster
Free candy, cool cars, and family fun? Yes, please! Grace Church is hosting its annual Community Day, featuring a car show, trunk-or-treating, music, bounce houses, barrel train rides, and face painting. All the activities are free, with food available for purchase.
Line Dancin' with DJ Nancy - Columbia 🤠
When: Saturday, October 31 | 7–10 PM
Where: Warehouse next to Columbia Animal Shelter, 129 S. 9th Street, Columbia, PA
Admission: $12 at the door
Event Link: Line Dancin With DJ Nancy – Columbia Animal Shelter
Dust off those boots and get ready to kick up your heels! Whether you've mastered every step or have two left feet, this fun, energetic line-dancing event welcomes beginners and experienced dancers alike. Even better? Your admission helps support Columbia Animal Shelter's community programs.
Until Next Weekend...
You don't have to spend a fortune to make some pretty fantastic memories! Whether you're collecting candy with the kiddos, exploring Lancaster County's haunted history, dancing the night away, or simply watching fireworks light up the sky, there's something to enjoy this Halloween weekend. And if FREE is your favorite four-letter word (it's definitely one of mine 😉), be sure to check out the community events and stargazing!
Stay feisty. Spend frugal-ish. Enjoy the weekend! 💕
Event details are subject to change. Check the linked organizer information for updates, admission requirements, and weather-related changes before heading out.
Happy weekend, friends! 💕
