30+ Things to Do With Kids This Week: October 18-24

Plan your week with us!

October 18, 2021

Have some fun with our roundup of this week’s in-person and virtual activities!

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All Week

‘The Wizard of Oz’ Exhibit at Please Touch Museum

October 8–January 16

4231 Avenue of the Republic

Visitors of all ages are invited to come along with Dorothy and Toto on a multi-sensory exploration of the Land of Oz! Read more in our preview.

Pumpkinland at Linvilla Orchards

September 11—November 7

137 W. Knowlton Rd., Media

Now it’s really fall, because Linvilla has brought out the piles and piles of pumpkins! Plus, enjoy entertainment, hayrides, train rides, pony rides, and more. Tickets are required for ages 1 and older. Find a huge selection of straw bales, corn shocks, toys and fall decorations of all kinds. Linvilla does not do Pick Your Own pumpkins; their pumpkins are pre-harvested.

Candytopia

Now through December 31

901 Market St.

This immersive– and highly instaworthy– pop-up devoted to all things sweet returns to Fashion District Philadelphia for a second limited run. Jump in the marshmallow pit filled with over 250,000 foam marshmallows, the rainbow-filled room with flying unicorn pigs and confetti explosions, and much more– plus candy in every room! Advance tickets required online.

‘Big Time’ at the Philadelphia Zoo

Through November 1; advance tickets required

3400 W. Girard Ave.

The Philadelphia Zoo will host 24 life-size animatronic dinosaurs in a new and exciting experience that’s sure to be a must-do for any little dino-lover in your family. Big Time: Life in an Endangerous Age will take guests through the Age of Dinosaurs through to the present day, showing the powerful changes and challenges that caused them to become extinct—and how other creatures survived. Advance tickets are required due to high demand and reduced capacity. Social distancing and masks will continue to be required for guests ages 2 and older.

Morris Arboretum Scarecrow Walk and Design Contest

October 2-31

Morris Arboretum, 100 E. Northwestern Ave.

Morris Arboretum’s Scarecrow Design Contest is back for the 14th year with the 2021 theme, Heroes! The creative scarecrows will be on display throughout the Arboretum, and visitors will vote for their favorite scarecrow online to determine the winners.

Colonial Gardens’ Pumpkinland

Through October 31

745 Schuylkill Road, Phoenixville

Celebrate fall with hayrides, the corn maze, castle, and Halloween display of colorful cartoon characters, scarecrows, hay hutch, and over ten tons of pumpkins!

Crayola IDEAworks: The Creativity Exhibition at the Franklin Institute

Through November 28

222 N. 20th St.

A highly colorful and interactive exhibit makes its debut at the Franklin Institute. Crayola IDEAworks is an immersive experience that uses state-of-the-art technology to challenge visitors, expand creativity, and hone problem-solving skills. Even cooler, with more than 150 physical and digital inquiry-based interactive experiences and challenges, guests can track their progress on an RFID wristband and receive a customized summary of their unique creative strengths discovered on their journey! Read more details in our preview.

Halloween Nights at Eastern State Penitentiary

Select dates from September 24 through November 13

Eastern State Penitentiary, 22nd Street and Fairmount Avenue

From the creators of Terror Behind the Walls, this brand-new seasonal festival offers more variety with 15 different spooky attractions, transforming abandoned cellblocks and courtyards into immersive, interactive environments. The experience includes two haunted houses (which can be bypassed by those wanting a less scary experience), a 3D fun house, two immersive walkthrough experiences, three live performances, four themed bars and lounges, and special effects like laser shows and large-scale video projections. Visitors can also take a guided, flashlight walking tour of the prison hospital wing focusing on the prison’s complex history. ‘Halloween Nights’ is recommended for kids 12 and older; children under the age of seven are not permitted. Tickets available online. Masks are required in all indoor spaces, regardless of vaccination status.

Riverbend’s ShiverQuest Scavenger Hunt

October 16–November 7

1950 Spring Mill Rd., Gladwyne

Instead of their annual Shiverfest celebration, Riverbend came up with a family-friendly way to enjoy the fun of their signature Halloween event in your own home and safely at the environmental center this year. Purchase a ShiverQuest Investigator Kit (on sale now), filled with games, activities, and cool tools that can be used at home and in your own backyard. The kits also contain instructions on how to download an app and participate in a self-guided scavenger hunt at Riverbend that starts on October 16–look for clues, and beat challenges as a family to solve the mystery. Participants of the scavenger hunt will be entered to win a week of Riverbend Summer Camp for the 2022 summer season.

‘Hamilton’

October 20-November 28

Academy of Music, 240 S. Broad St.

The Broadway sensation based on our ten dollar founding father is coming, so do not throw away your shot! Recommended for ages 12 and up (but you can gauge your kid’s readiness by watching the performance on Disney+ first). Note that proof of vaccination and masks are required for all Kimmel Center Campus performances this season.

Monday

Baby Wordplay in the Park

October 18, 10 am

Cliveden of the National Trust, 6401 Germantown Ave.

Story Play in the park will have you and your little one playing with sounds, catching and tossing words, reading, rhyming, and singing! Pre-register online.

Mommy and Me Tea Party at Hudson Table

October 18, 10:30 am

1001 N. Second St.

Parents and their little ones will learn to make two types of tea sandwiches, mini chocolate chip scones, and hibiscus iced tea. Caretaker and child will be working with and eating their own food only. Price is for one adult and up to two children between 2-4 years old. Pre-register online.

Baby Storytime with Parkway Central Library

October 18, 10:30 am

Shakespeare Park, 1901 Vine St.

Join Miss Mary Mondays at 10:30 am at Shakespeare Park (across the street from the library on Vine Street) for Baby Storytime. Enjoy stories, songs, and fun! This program is intended for kids ages 2 and under and their caregivers. Weather-permitting.

Gladwyne Toddler Storytime

October 18, 10:30 am

Gladwyne Park

Bring a blanket and meet at Gladwyne Park for storytime for ages 0-4. Pre-register online.

Kids Music Group

October 18, 1:30 pm

McPherson Square Library, 601 E. Indiana Ave.

Join Kensington Storefront weekly at the Library to sing, play, and move! Children up to age 10 and their caregivers are invited to come together to create music and memories, while supporting social and developmental skills.

Virtual: Art Club at Home with Philadelphia Museum of Art

October 18, 3:30 pm

In this live virtual program for ages 6-10, kids will experiment with patterns and meditative repetition with inspiration from Philadelphia artist Edna Andrade. Free; pre-register online. Registration ends at noon the day before the program; a link will be sent to registrants prior to the program.

Tuesday

Schuylkill Center Sprouts

October 19, 9:30 am

8480 Hagy’s Mill Road

Together with a favorite grown-up, Sprouts will discover and explore the wonders of nature through sensory-focused classes. This six-week series for little ones ages 2-3 years features walks, songs, and stories. Pre-register for the full series, or drop in for $30 (if space allows).

Mister John’s Music at Kith + Kin

October 19, 10 am

3060 W. Jefferson St.

Through music, rhythm and movement, infants and toddlers learn about self-expression, teamwork, sharing, and empathy. all full of surprises and set to your favorite tunes from your favorite artists! This is an all-ages, BYO instruments class. Pre-register online ($25 for drop-in).

Storytime in Lovett Park

October 19, 10:30 am

6945 Germantown Ave.

Join Ms. Dana for stories, songs, and silliness. Recommended for ages 2 and up, and their parents and caregivers. This storytime will take place outside, weather permitting.

Little Yogis

October 19, 11 am

Lovett Memorial Library, 6945 Germantown Avenue

Take a fun and playful yoga journey led by Sarah of Surya Moon Yoga. Learn individual and partner poses through songs and storytelling, all while building confidence, creativity, and strong, healthy bodies. Children and parents will practice how to center themselves through breathing and relaxation. This class is designed for families with kiddos aged 2 to 5 years old, but anyone is welcome. Bring your own yoga mats and/or beach towels to practice on. This program will take place outside, at the library. Physical distancing and masks are required.

Garden Storytime at Donatucci Library

October 19, 11 am

1935 Shunk St.

Join Miss Sunita for Storytime in the Donatucci Garden every Tuesday. Masks (for kids over 2) and social distancing required. Ages 0-5. Bring Your Own Blanket. Weather permitting.

Fun Ballers: Outdoor Preschool Sports

October 19, 11:30 am

Rittenhouse Square

Sandcastle Fun Co.’s “Fun-Structors” will guide kids ages 3-5 through all kinds of age-appropriate sports games. Drop-in passes available online.

Virtual At-Home Anthro: Aztec Symbols and Stamps

October 19, 1 pm

Join Museum educators to discover why archaeologists think that ceramic stamps may have been used by Aztec artists to decorate pottery, clothing, and bodies. Then draw along to create a geometric design found on an ancient Aztec stamp. This 45-minute session with the Penn Museum is free, and perfect for elementary and middle school kids. Pre-register online.

Riverfront North’s Free Outdoor Movie Night: ‘Hocus Pocus’

October 19, 6 pm

Glen Foerd on the Delaware, 5001 Grant Ave.

Time to get spooky at Philly’s hidden mansion along the Delaware River in Northeast Philly with a free classic flick. Costumes are optional. Bring your own blankets, chairs, and food.

Outdoor Movie Night: Abominable

October 19, 6:30 pm

Helen Kate Furness Free Library, 100 Providence Rd., Wallingford

Grab your lawn chairs and blankets as we watch Abominable under the stars. The movie will be screened on the library’s front lawn. In the event of inclement weather, the movie will be canceled. Free; pre-register online.

Wednesday

Baby Wordplay in the Park

October 20, 9:30 am

811 Bowman Avenue, Wynnewood

Story Play in the park will have you and your little one playing with sounds, catching and tossing words, reading, rhyming, and singing! Pre-register online.

Pumpkin Party with Cinderella

October 20, 10 am

Lulu’s Casita, 6 Cricket Ave., Ardmore

Cinderella will visit Lulu’s to read a story, have a dance party, and decorate pumpkins with your little ones. $25 per child; email info@luluscasita.com to reserve your spot.

Bartram’s Garden Homeschooler Days: Nature Forensics

October 20, 10–11:30 am

5400 Lindbergh Blvd.

How can we “read” the trees, the rocks, the soil, and the water for clues about what’s happened here? In this workshop, students will learn to be nature detectives! For homeschoolers ages 5 to 11 and their adults. Tickets available online.

Paleo Playdate at Academy of Natural Sciences

October 20, 10:15 am

1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway

Have some fun with Academy experts and other young natural history fans for a very special science story time. Each week will feature new stories, new hands-on activities, take-home crafts, and room to move and explore. For ages 3-5. Pre-register online.

Outdoor Spooky Storytime and Costume Parade

October 20, 10:30 am

Andorra Library, 705 E. Cathedral Rd.

Meet on the front patio of the library for spooky stories, dancing, and a costume parade. All kids will be given a book to take home as a treat. This Halloween storytime is for toddlers and preschoolers along with an adult caregiver.

Music and Movement with Free Library of Philadelphia

October 20, 10:30 am

Shakespeare Park, 1901 Vine Street

Join Ms. Naomi at Shakespeare Park (across the street from the library on Vine Street) for songs, dance, and fun explorations of rhythm and movement! This program is intended for ages 6 and under and their caregivers. Adults and children over 2 must wear a mask, maintain 6 feet of social distance, and stay home if they are unwell.

Outdoor Preschool Storytime at Richmond Library

October 20, 10:30 am

2987 Almond St.

Join Ms. Meghan in front of the library for stories, songs, and fun. Recommended for ages 4 and under with caregivers.

After School Baking at Hudson’s Table: Unicorn Cake

October 20, 3:45 pm

1001 N. Second Street

Kids ages 8-14 can test out their baking skills, Nailed It! style, and create a unicorn mini cake this week. Kids will get some instruction on how to work with the materials and create their masterpiece. They will get to take home their creation at the end of the class. Class is drop-off. See more details and pre-register online.

Craft Club: Halloween Jewelry

October 20, 4 pm

Upper Darby Library – Sellers Branch, 76 S. State Rd., Upper Darby

Kids in Grades 3 – 5 can make fun and scary necklaces and bracelets for Halloween! The program will be held outdoors on the lawn behind the library. Free; pre-registration is required.

Sesame Place’s Not-Too-Spooky Halloween Drive-Thru

Wednesdays in October, 5:30-7:30 pm

Sesame Place, 100 Sesame Road, Langhorne

Coming back from last year’s pivot, the Not-Too Spooky Halloween Drive-Thru is another way to experience Halloween at Sesame Place: from the comfort of your vehicle! Wind your way through ten not-too-spooky zones of Halloween fun, including Abby’s Magical Pumpkin Patch, Bert & Ernie’s Halloween Hoedown, and Cookie Monster’s Treat Fleet. The whole event culminates in a Monster Mash Bash down the iconic Sesame Street Neighborhood, where Sesame friends will be out in their costumes for a Halloween celebration. Guests will also be able to trick-or-treat their way through the experience and take advantage of special photo opportunities from inside their cars. Plus, before entering the Drive-Thru zones, guests will pass through an exclusive Halloween market where yummy treats and flashing glow products will be available for purchase. Pre-registration required online.

Thursday

Rollin’ Rockers: Music and Movement

October 21, 9:30 am

Rittenhouse Square

From shakers to tambourines and drums, choose your favorite musical instrument to join the band and rock out with Sandcastle Fun Co. as they take kids ages 1-5 on a rock and roll journey. Drop-in passes available online.

Preschool Yoga at Kith + Kin

October 21, 10 am

3060 W. Jefferson Street

Best for ages 2-4, kids’ yoga combines traditional yoga poses with reading, singing, mindfulness, and breathing techniques. Props and music are used with movement to help build strength, flexibility, and coordination as well as providing children with strategies to manage emotions and “big feelings.” Pre-register online for the four-week series, or drop in for $15. Bring your own yoga mat.

Storytime at Cranaleith

October 21, 10 am

Cranaleith Spiritual Center, 13475 Proctor Rd.

Enjoy nature, stories, and songs on the grounds of Cranaleith Spiritual Center. For children 6 and under and their families. Participants are asked to wear a mask. Free; pre-registration recommended.

Mandie’s Nature Nook

October 21, 10 am

Scott Arboretum of Swarthmore College, 500 College Ave., Swarthmore

Join Youth, Family, and Diversity Programs Coordinator Mandie Curtis Banks and Mari, her special caterpillar friend, for mornings full of stories, singing, dancing, and playing as they dig into nature. This in-person series is a free program for babies through PreK aged children and their caregivers. All classes will be held outdoors if weather permits. In case of severe weather, a virtual option will be offered through Zoom. The class is free, but registration is required and limited.

Outdoor Storytime at Franklin Square

October 21, 10:30 am

Franklin Square, 200 N. Sixth St.

Children under 5 and their caregivers are invited to join Independence Library’s Ms. Betsy at the Franklin Square Park in the pavilion (west of the mini golf course) for storytime.

Fall Storytime at Chestnut Hill Library

October 21, 10:30 am

8711 Germantown Ave.

Join Ms. Prather for stories, songs, and rhymes outside on the grassy area next to the library.

Outdoor Read, Baby, Read Storytime

October 21, 10:30 am

Richmond Library, 2987 Almond St.

Join Ms. Meghan in front of the library for lap time with stories, songs, rhymes, and bounces. For babies with caregivers; siblings welcome.

Virtual Brandywine River Museum Virtual Read Aloud: ‘Katie Meets the Impressionists’

October 21, 10:30 am

Families with young children are invited to join museum staff on Zoom for a morning of fun interactive storytelling and artwork engagement. Each family will receive suggestions for connecting to the book at home with craft and sensory exploration ideas. Pre-register online.

Outdoor Preschool Storytime in West Philly

October 21, 11 am

Malcolm X Park, 5100 Pine Street

Stories, songs, and fun for ages 2 to 5 and their caregivers.

Fun Ballers: Outdoor Preschool Sports

October 21, 11:30 am

Rittenhouse Square

Sandcastle Fun Co.’s “Fun-Structors” will guide kids ages 3-5 through all kinds of age-appropriate sports games. Drop-in passes available online.

Outdoor Drag Storytime at Mister John’s Music

October 21, 3:30 pm
904 S. Ninth St.

Maria TopCatt is back at Mister John’s Music for stories, lipsyncing dance parties, catwalk time, and togetherness, in a special outdoor event! Tickets available online.

STEM Shenanigans for Teens

October 21, 3:45 pm

Upper Darby Library – Sellers Branch, 76 S. State Rd., Upper Darby

Teens will create and test rollercoasters. This program will take place in person, under a canopy tent, outside the Sellers Memorial Branch of the Upper Darby Township Library. All participants and facilitators will be masked and socially distanced. Free; pre-register online.

Halloween Cookie Decorating at West Oak Lane Library

October 21, 4 pm

2000 E. Washington Lane

Celebrate Halloween a little early by decorating some spooky, scary, funny, and delicous cookies. This program will take place inside the library and space is very limited.

Friday

Sand Jam Music and Movement

October 22, 9:30 am

Rittenhouse Square

In this Jamboree style class, kids ages 1-4 will explore engaging movement activities through a dynamic musical lens with Sandcastle Fun Co. Drop-in passes available online.

In the Park with Baby Wordplay

October 22, 10 am

Lemon Hill Park

Join Baby Wordplay for their SPark (Storyplays in the Park) series! Baby Wordplay storyplays are literacy-rich, fun opportunities to engage your little one with reading, songs, fingerplays, and puppets. Best for ages 6 weeks to 5 years but all ages are welcome. Bring your own blanket and water, and wear a mask. $20 drop-in (if space allows).

Books and Blankets

October 22, 10:30 am

Penn Wynne Park, 1214 E. Manoa Road, Wynnewood

Join Ms. Danielle for outdoor storytime. Bring a blanket and be ready for stories, songs, and silliness.

Pumpkin Storytime at Falls of Schuylkill Library

October 22, 10:30 am

3501 Midvale Ave.

Join the library in the Midvale Avenue garden for a pumpkin storytime! Bring something to sit on and hear about this favorite fall treat. Kids can also paint pumpkins to take home. This program is designed for kids, ages 3 to 7, along with an adult caregiver.

Virtual Penn Museum Virtual Passport: Mexico

October 22; lessons at 11 am and 1 pm

This special event series is open to all home learners, pods, K-12 students, and K-12 classrooms. Learn more about the holiday of Día de los Muertos and get inspired to create your own version of an ofrenda (altar). In the afternoon, visit some of the amazing cities that filled this area before European contact. See the legacy of incredible civilizations, including the Aztec and Maya, today. Registrants also gain access to a virtual classroom space full of digital activities, videos, and articles to further explore the theme throughout the day. Pre-register online.

Read, Baby, Read Outdoor Storytime at Malcolm X Park

October 22, 11 am

Malcolm X Park, 5100 Pine St.

Babies and their caregivers are invited to enjoy lap time with stories, songs, rhymes, and bounces.

Halloween Hikes and Hayrides

October 22, 4—10 pm

Schuylkill Center, 8480 Hagy’s Mill Road

Get into the Halloween spirit with spooktacular mystery-filled hikes, nature-inspired crafts and activities, and hayrides through the magical moonlit forest. Enjoy s’mores by the campfire, snacks from local food trucks, and a Halloween movie on the lawn (once the sun has set). Space is limited; registration is required. Bring a flashlight and dress for the weather.

Boo Just For You

October 22, 4—6 pm

Elmwood Park Zoo, 1661 Harding Blvd., Norristown

This sneak preview of Boo at the Zoo events is specially geared for guests with special needs, and their families and caregivers. This is a great opportunity to experience and enjoy Boo at the Zoo in a more relaxed setting, perfect for those with sensory sensitivity. Kids can walk the zoo and participate in treat stations, animal meet-and-greets, a costume parade, and more.

‘Hocus Pocus’ Friday Movie Night at The Bourse

October 22, 6:30 pm

The Bourse, 111 South Independence Mall East

The Bourse invites witches, ghouls, and spooky season lovers alike to the patio on three Fridays in October to watch Hocus Pocus on a 16-foot projector while enjoying themed treats from select The Bourse Food Hall vendors. Tickets are available for $20 per table (tables seat up to four guests). Seating is limited, so pre-register online. The movie will start promptly at 7 pm, but ticketholders are invited to arrive as early as 6 pm to enjoy a themed snack and beverage prior to the showing.

Disney’s ‘Aladdin Kids’

October 22, 7 pm

The Springer Studio, 751 Pike Springs Road, Phoenixville

Performed by the kindergarten – third grade workshop Studio Starlets, this musical based on the Disney classic is sure to delight.

‘Singin’ In The Rain’

October 22, 7 pm

Salt Performing Arts, The Theatre at Yellow Springs, 1645 Art School Road, Chester Springs

Tap your toes and sing along in this splashy adaptation of the celebrated and beloved film. The “Greatest Movie Musical of All Time” is faithfully and lovingly adapted for the stage in Singin’ in the Rain

Nickelodeon’s The Spongebob Musical

October 22, 7:30 pm

Footlighters Theatre, 58 Main Avenue, Berwyn

SpongeBob SquarePants: The Broadway Musical is a stage musical, co-conceived and directed by Tina Landau with songs by various artists and a book by Kyle Jarrow. It is based on the Nickelodeon animated television series SpongeBob SquarePants. Tickets available online.

Weekend Events

Boo at the Zoo

Weekends from October 16—31

Philadelphia Zoo, 3400 W. Girard Ave.

Put on your favorite costume and set out on a trick-or-treat safari around the zoo. There are also festive displays throughout the zoo that make for great photo ops. To minimize touchpoints, candy will be available at stations around the Zoo. Tickets available online. While you’re there, make a reservation to catch Big Time one last time before it goes extinct!

Candytopia: Halloween Sweets and Treats

October 22–November 1
Candytopia, 901 Market St.

Candy lovers and visitors are invited to wear their favorite family-friendly costumes for selfies and photo opportunities inside the sweetest pop-up experience in Philadelphia. While visitors explore the dazzling and colorful environments, they will find extra sweets and treats hidden throughout the space. On top of the usual candy in each and every room, special Candytopians will be showing off their own costumes and giving away extra bonus candy. Tickets available online. Guests ages 4 and up will be required to wear a mask or face covering.

Franklin Fright

Weekends from October 1–31

Franklin Institute, 222 N. 20th St.

Spooky science, scary live shows, and other frightfully fun, family-friendly festivities take over the museum this October. Come dressed in your best costume and trick-or-treat indoors, through iconic exhibits with surprises behind each of the festive doors! Meet monsters, mummies, and magicians while collecting tasty treats! Included with admission; bring your own bag for trick-or-treating. Masks are required for all guests age 3 and up, regardless of vaccination status.

Spooky Mini Golf at Franklin Square

October 1—31, 6—10 pm

Franklin Square, 200 N. Sixth St.

Franklin Square’s Philly-themed mini golf is transformed into spooky fun for the Halloween season with fog, lights, music, and surprises! While you’re there, the Franklin Square Fountain runs shows every 30 minutes with synchronized lights and music. Advanced timed tickets are required available online at historicphiladelphia.org.

Boo at the Elmwood Park Zoo

Weekends, October 9 through 31, noon — 3 pm
Elmwood Park Zoo, 1661 Harding Blvd., Norristown

Bring the little ones for a fun-filled afternoon for princesses, ghosts, and superheroes of all ages. Don’t forget your trick-or-treat bag, as treat stations will be located throughout the zoo! Come dressed in your creative costume and participate in the costume parade (2:30 pm at the bison stage).

Paleopalooza Weekend at Academy of Natural Sciences

October 23 and 24

1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway

Explore fossils, talk to scientists, make a Cretaceous craft, go on a Monster Mash Scavenger Hunt, tour Dinosaur Hall, and much more dinosaur-themed fun this weekend! Included with admission.

Halloween Fun at the Please Touch Museum

October 23 and 24

4231 Avenue of the Republic

In addition to the new Wizard of Oz exhibit, you can enjoy not-so-scary fun this weekend, including a Saturday Meet-and-Greet with Dorothy, storytimes, and more fun activities.

‘Hamilton’

October 20-November 28

Academy of Music, 240 S. Broad St.

Nickelodeon’s The Spongebob Musical

October 22 and 23, 7:30 pm; October 24, 2 pm

Footlighters Theatre, 58 Main Avenue, Berwyn

Frozen, Jr.

October 23, 11:30 am; and October 24, noon

The Media Theatre, 104 East State Street, Media

Frozen Jr. is based on the 2018 Broadway musical, and brings Elsa, Anna, and the magical land of Arendelle to life, onstage. Tickets available online.

LEGOLAND Discovery Center Brick or Treat

October 2 through November 14

500 W. Germantown Pike, Plymouth Meeting

Celebrate the spookiest time of the year at LEGOLAND Discovery Center. Create your own LEGO pumpkin, pose with Bonesy, find all the scary scenes in a Miniland scavenger hunt, and much more!

Morris Arboretum Scarecrow Walk and Design Contest

October 2-31

Morris Arboretum, 100 E. Northwestern Ave.

The Count’s Halloween Spooktacular

Weekends through November 7

Sesame Place, 100 Sesame Road, Langhorne

Come in costume and celebrate silly, not-too-spooky fun! The park will be transformed into a family-friendly Halloween haven and guests will enjoy trick-or-treating around the park, Halloween-themed shows, participating in an interactive Scarecrow Scavenger Hunt, and unique photo opportunities with everyone’s favorite furry friends dressed up in costume on their Halloween-themed floats!

Robin Hood

October 23, 10 am; and October 24, 1 pm

Hedgerow Farmhouse, 146 W. Rose Valley Road, Rose Valley

Robin Hood along with his friends Little John, Friar Tuck, and Maid Marian swashbuckle their way into our hearts as they do all the wrong things for the right reasons. Make sure to bring your favorite beach chair and blanket for this outdoor performance. Advance tickets required; no tickets will be sold at the door.

‘Singin’ In The Rain’

October 22–24

Salt Performing Arts, The Theatre at Yellow Springs, 1645 Art School Road, Chester Springs

Morgan’s Pier Fall Fest

September 24–October 30

Morgan’s Pier, 221 N. Christopher Columbus Blvd.

Fall Fest at Morgan’s Pier always brings a full month of special events, fall food and drinks, and family fun to the waterfront. Events include weekend pumpkin carving (pick a pumpkin for $5 to $10 and carve it!), fall decor, seasonal treats, and local brews. Reservations are recommended for table service; walk-ins are welcome for all bar areas.

Pumpkinland at Linvilla Orchards

September 11—November 7

137 W. Knowlton Rd., Media

The Pop-Up Marketplace in LOVE Park

October 23-24

1500 JFK Blvd.

LOVE Park’s Pop-Up Marketplace will feature diverse local businesses and entrepreneurs on weekends throughout October. The pop-up experience will also feature free programming, including free community yoga and meditation classes on Sundays, live entertainment, family-friendly activities, and more

Halloween Nights at Eastern State Penitentiary

Select dates from September 24 through November 13

Eastern State Penitentiary, 22nd Street and Fairmount Avenue

Saturday

PAWS Mutt Strut

October 23, 10 am–1 pm

Navy Yard, 4747 S. Broad St.

Enjoy a scenic walk, activities for dogs and people, food trucks, live music, contests, prizes, and much more to help save Philadelphia’s homeless pets. Pre-register online.

Gold Star Park Fall Festival

October 23, 10 am–noon

625 Wharton St.

DJ Flipp Fripps will be bringing the beats for a dance party, so dress in your favorite costume and come rock out. Pick up your party passport and visit all the stations for art activities, trick-or-treating, photo opportunities, and balloon art.

Mermaid for a Day at Primp & Play

October 23, 10 am

1520 Locust Street, Second Floor

Have your kids become a mermaid for a morning of fun! Kids can come dressed as their favorite mermaid, build a mermaid grotto project to take home, enjoy a glitter mermaid facial, a clip-in colored hair braid, and a sweet mermaid treat! Tickets available online.

Schuylkill Saturday: Self-Guided Nature Exploration for Families

October 23, 10 am

Schuylkill Center, 8480 Hagy’s Mill Road

Pick up a nature exploration kit at the Visitor Center and then hit the trails with your family to complete the activities inside. Dive into a different theme and collect a new explorer badge each week. Explorer kits can be picked up anytime between 10 am and noon. All ages welcome. No registration or fee required. Masks are required when picking up your kit.

Día de los Muertos Festival at the Penn Museum

October 23, 11 am–4 pm

3260 South St.

Explore the unique history, traditions, and expressions of this Mexican celebration of life and death. This full-day festival offers fun for the whole family, including an arts activity, altar competition, artisan market, dance and music performances, and an enormous traditional altar installation by local artist Cesar Viveros. Included with museum admission.

Fall Festival in DiSilvestro Park

October 23, 11 am–1 pm

1701 S. 15th St.

Enjoy family-friendly activities like pumpkin decorating, a festive storytime, live music, treats, and more.

Virtual History Explorers Club: Who Wears What: Picking Uniforms in the Revolutionary War

October 23, 11:30 am

Join Museum of the American Revolution staff online as they go through the wardrobe of uniforms, hats, dresses, and accessories to discover what you might have worn during the Revolutionary War. History Explorers Club playdates are best enjoyed by ages 7-11 but fun for all kids.

Intergalactic Day at Elmwood Park Zoo

October 23, noon–3 pm

1661 Harding Blvd., Norristown

In addition to Boo at the Zoo festivities, you can meet Star Wars characters on Saturday afternoon at Elmwood Park Zoo. Included with admission.

Fall Festival at Upper Darby Municipal Library

October 23, noon–2 pm

501 Bywood Avenue, Upper Darby

The library hosts an afternoon of free outdoor fall activities including painting pumpkins, decorating sugar cookies, face painting, crafts, a fall-themed photobooth, and games for all ages.

Wayne Art Center’s Halloween Fun Fest

October 23, 1–3 pm

Wayne Art Center, 413 Maplewood Ave., Wayne

Wayne Art Center hosts an afternoon of festive workshops for kids ages 5 -11. Your child can make and take six different crafts during this fun family event! Event admission is free; $30 to sign up for all the workshops. Pre-registration is encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome.

Roxtoberfest 2021

October 23, 1–6 pm

Ridge Avenue between Leverington Avenue and Lyceum Avenue

Reconnect with your favorite Roxborough businesses and neighbors– and get a head start on Halloween too– with great food and drink, music, performances, and kid’s activities.

The Big Halloween Sleepover with Digger and David

October 23, 1 pm

Tinicum Memorial Public Library, 620 Seneca St., Essington

This highly interactive puppet show about friendship, sharing, and personal responsibility was created especially for the 2-to-6-year old crowd and is the perfect way to swing into fall. Free; pre-register online to reserve your spot.

Apple Hunt and Cider Pressing

October 23, 1 pm

Pennypack Environmental Center, 8600 Verree Rd.

Children ages 3-6 can join Pennypack Environmental Center with an adult to search for apples and then help while they make cider.

Springfield YMCA Halloween Thriller

October 23, 2 pm

194 W. Sproul Rd., Springfield

Kids will enjoy pumpkin decorating, singing Halloween songs, learning Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” dance, and treats. Pre-register online.

Disney’s ‘Aladdin Kids’

October 23, 2 pm and 7 pm

The Springer Studio, 751 Pike Springs Road, Phoenixville

Performed by the kindergarten – third grade workshop Studio Starlets, this musical based on the Disney classic is sure to delight.

Halloween Afternoon at Gatehouse

October 23, 2–6 pm

Gatehouse at the Navy Yard, 4503 S. Broad St.

A family-friendly Halloween afternoon at Gatehouse with live music by Stephanie Owens, face painting, pumpkin painting, trick-or-treating, games, and more. The costume parade will kick off at 4:30 pm. Pumpkins are $5 to paint or included with every kid’s meal ordered.

Pearl Street Block Party

October 23, 2–6 pm

1200 block of Pearl Street

Check out a new mural unveiling, performances, vendors, and more art activities.

Halloween Hikes and Hayrides

October 23, 4—10 pm

Schuylkill Center, 8480 Hagy’s Mill Road

Conshohocken Halloween Parade

October 23, 4 pm (registration begins at 3 pm)

Begins at Mary Wood Park House, 120 E. Fifth Avenue, Conshohocken

Meet at Mary Wood Park House to register for your category (age groups and dogs!), then parade around and meet back where you started for snacks and prizes.

Sunday

Make A Dog’s Day Fest

October 24, 10 am–4 pm

Subaru Park, 1 Stadium Dr., Chester

Subaru is teaming up with the Philadelphia Union to host the first Make A Dog’s Day Fest, inviting local pet organizations and dog owners for a day full of doggy fun. Participants – including humans and canines – will enjoy food, games, and more. A variety of vendors and local animal organizations will be on-site and you can meet over 100 dogs available for adoption. Pre-registration is required online.

Rock and Roll Playhouse Presents: Reggae for Kids

October 24, 11:45 am (doors at 10:45 am)

Ardmore Music Hall, 23 E. Lancaster Ave., Ardmore

Using the songs from the most iconic musicians in rock history, the Rock and Roll Playhouse offers its core audience (typically kids ages 3-8 years old) games, movement, stories, and of course an opportunity to rock! Tickets available online. This show requires either proof of Full COVID-19 Vaccination or a Negative COVID-19 Test administered and timestamped within 72 hours of showtime for all guests ages 12 and up. Masks are also required to be worn at all times while in the venue, aside from between sips and bites, for all guests ages 3 and up.

Halloween Family Fun Day at The Woodlands

October 24, noon–3 pm

4000 Woodland Ave.

The Woodlands is hosting a free spooky family-friendly day to celebrate Halloween. This year’s event will feature a digital Halloween themed self-guided tour, and performances by Tangle Movement Arts, and Karen Smith’s “Spiritual Atmospheric Cleansing.” This event is free and open to the public but pre-registration is required by October 22.

Trunk or Treat at Action Karate

October 24, noon

6 W. Lancaster Ave., Ardmore

Action Karate is hosting a free community Halloween celebration, so come in costume for some fun! Pre-register online for a free candy bag and shark tattoo.

Sunday Fun Day at Awbury Arboretum

October 24, 1–4 pm

The Farm at Awbury, 6336 Ardleigh St.

Every Sunday is a Fun Day at The Farm at Awbury Arboretum! Free family-friendly activities every weekend: See the goats and chickens, take wellness classes, go on farm tours, and more.

Bubble Adventures Workshop

October 24, 1 pm

Smoke & Mirrors Magic Theater, 2840 Pine Road

In this two-hour workshop for kids, students learn the fundamentals of bubbles through the use of soap film experiments with Bubble Magician Meadow Perry. Students will do fun, hands-on projects while engaging in STEM-related topics. The class ends just in time for lunch, pizza provided by Smoke and Mirrors Theater. Recommended for ages 6 and up. Tickets available online.

Johnny Shortcake at Rigby Mansion

October 24, 2 pm

523 E. Church Ln.

Enjoy the infectious, one-of-a-kind funk of the Johnny Shortcake Show, featuring a performance by The Philadelphia School of Circus Arts. This is an outdoor concert. Tickets available online.

Virtual Sundays on Stage: Mexico Beyond Mariachi – SUGAR SKULL! A Virtual Día de Muertos Adventure

October 24, 2 pm

Specifically created for the virtual stage, SUGAR SKULL! A Virtual Día de Muertos Adventure is a captivating theatrical experience for the times that celebrates Day of the Dead, a traditional holiday that transcends borders. Join Sugar Skull, a charismatic candy skeleton, as he follows the music towards the ultimate party! He is spurred on by the tricky Chaneques, who desperately want him to be the centerpiece on their ofrenda. Along the path, Sugar Skull meets many colorful characters who teach him how Day of the Dead is much more than a party – it is a celebration of life!

Drag Queen Storytime

October 24, 3 pm

The Meadows at FDR Park, 1500 Pattison Ave.

Philly Family Pride will be hosting a Halloween-themed fun-with-bubbles playdate for Philly LGBTQ-led families at FDR Park. At 3:30 pm, Dusty Rose will lead Drag Queen Storytime for the kids! Costumes welcome!