Halloween 2026 in Northern Virginia: Best Events, Haunted Houses & Family Activities
Halloween in Northern Virginia offers everything from haunted forests and ghost tours to pumpkin patches, fall festivals, and neighborhood trick-or-treating. With Halloween falling on Saturday, October 31, 2026, families and visitors have plenty of opportunities to celebrate throughout the region.
Whether you're planning an evening of scares in Centreville, exploring historic Alexandria, or enjoying a fall festival in Loudoun County, this guide highlights some of the best Halloween events in Northern Virginia for 2026.
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2026 Event Guide | Haunted Attractions | Family Activities | Events by Location | FAQs
Best Halloween Events in Northern Virginia 2026
| Event | Location | 2026 dates |
|---|---|---|
| Cox Farms Fall Festival | Centreville | Sept. 19–Nov. 8, select days |
| Cox Farms Fields of Fear | Centreville | Sept. 25–Nov. 7, select nights |
| Ghost Town at Burke Lake Park | Fairfax Station | Oct. 24 |
| Ghosts, Goblins & Ghouls Fun Run | Alexandria | Oct. 24 |
| Poe in Alexandria | Old Town Alexandria | Oct. 29–30 |
| Boo-Fest | Alexandria | Oct. 30 |
Event schedules and ticket availability may change. Confirm details with organizers before visiting.
Best Haunted Houses and Halloween Attractions
Cox Farms Fields of Fear — Centreville
For visitors who enjoy intense Halloween experiences, Fields of Fear features the Cornightmare, Dark Side Hayride, and haunted forest attractions. The nighttime event runs on selected evenings from September 25 through November 7.
Fields of Fear is separate from the daytime fall festival, and tickets must be purchased separately. Visitors exploring Centreville homes for sale will recognize the area's convenient access to western Fairfax County attractions.
Historic Ghost Tours — Old Town Alexandria
Old Town Alexandria offers a different Halloween experience through lantern-lit walking tours, historic buildings, and stories of the city's mysterious past.
Historic Alexandria also presents Poe in Alexandria on October 29–30 at The Lyceum. The area's cobblestone streets and preserved architecture make it especially atmospheric during October.
Discover more about the neighborhood through Old Town Alexandria homes for sale.
Best Family-Friendly Halloween Activities
Cox Farms Fall Festival
The Cox Farms Fall Festival features hayrides, giant slides, farm animals, and outdoor activities. Running on selected days from September 19 through November 8, it is a popular destination for families with younger children.
Burke Lake Park Ghost Town
On October 24, Burke Lake Park hosts Ghost Town, a family-friendly Halloween celebration featuring themed activities, crafts, train rides, carousel rides, and miniature golf.
Loudoun County Pumpkin Picking
Loudoun County offers a quieter autumn experience with pumpkin picking, corn mazes, and scenic farm visits. Great Country Farms in Bluemont is a well-known seasonal destination for families looking to enjoy the countryside.
Families considering a move can also explore Ashburn homes for sale and Leesburg homes for sale.
Halloween Events by Northern Virginia Location
Fairfax County
Fairfax County offers a combination of haunted attractions, farm festivals, and community celebrations. Centreville is particularly popular for seasonal farm activities, while county parks provide additional family-friendly options.
Alexandria
Alexandria's Halloween celebrations combine history with neighborhood traditions. The October 24 Ghosts, Goblins & Ghouls Fun Run and October 30 Boo-Fest are among the city's scheduled family events.
Arlington
Arlington celebrates with neighborhood decorations, seasonal recreation programs, and trick-or-treating. Events include Halloween Splash on October 23 and Spooky Stories on October 30.
For neighborhood recommendations and additional activities, read our Halloween 2026 in Arlington, VA guide.
Loudoun County
Loudoun's rural landscapes provide a scenic setting for fall celebrations. Visitors can explore pumpkin patches, harvest festivals, and Halloween-themed events around Leesburg, Bluemont, and surrounding communities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Halloween in Northern Virginia
When is Halloween in 2026?
Halloween falls on Saturday, October 31, 2026.
What are the best Halloween activities for young children?
Cox Farms Fall Festival, Burke Lake Park Ghost Town, pumpkin picking, and neighborhood celebrations are good options for families seeking activities without intense scares.
Where can adults find scary Halloween attractions?
Cox Farms Fields of Fear in Centreville is a major nighttime attraction. Historic ghost tours in Alexandria offer a less intense alternative.
What time does trick-or-treating start?
Many neighborhoods begin around dusk, often near 6 p.m., but there is no universal Northern Virginia trick-or-treating schedule. Check local guidance and neighborhood customs.
Discover Northern Virginia Beyond Halloween
Seasonal celebrations offer a glimpse into the communities that make Northern Virginia appealing year-round. From walkable Alexandria neighborhoods to suburban communities in Fairfax and Loudoun counties, each area offers a distinct lifestyle.
Explore Homes for Sale in Northern Virginia
Thinking about buying or selling a home in Northern Virginia? Dell Residential Group at Samson Properties helps buyers and sellers navigate the real estate market across Fairfax, Arlington, Alexandria, Loudoun County, and surrounding communities.
Contact Dell Residential Group