Introduction to Halloween in Houston
Halloween in Houston is much more than fun-sized candy bars and the ever-controversial candy corn — it’s quickly becoming one of the city’s biggest celebrations. We’ve already shared one roundup of Houston spots casting a spell this season, but there are even more ways to get your witch on. Read on for a variety of activities, both family-friendly and 21+ only.
Family-Friendly Activities
Big Rivers Waterpark & Adventure
Flames flicker in hand-carved pumpkins at Big Rivers Waterpark and Adventure during Pumpkins after Dark. From now through November 2, the family-friendly event will include live pumpkin carving by experts, a “Monster Maze” to explore, and Houston-area food trucks dishing out food and drink. Tickets ($19 youth, $23 adults) include access to the amusement park’s rides.
North Italia – The Woodlands
This Italian eatery recently added movies to the menu with the launch of a series on the Woodlands Mall lawn. “Hocus Pocus” is flying in for a family-friendly screening at 6:30 pm on Wednesday, October 29. Yard games, themed coloring sheets, and samples of North Italia’s new salted caramel budino, with espresso fudge, banana, chantilly crème, and toasted pecan toffee, will be on hand.
Gazpacho’s
The colorful kiosk in Levy Park invites proud dog parents to bring their dressed up pups to the Howl-O-Ween Dog Parade on Sunday, October 26. The hair-raising fun continues on Halloween night with a party and loteria beginning at 7 pm. For Dia de los Muertos, loved ones can be remembered on the restaurant’s community altar filled with marigolds and offerings. Free face painting runs 6-8 pm on Saturday, November 1, followed by pan de muerto and hot chocolate at 7 pm on Sunday.
21+ Only Activities
Brenner’s on the Bayou
Decked out diners can try for their chance to win one of three prizes for best costume at Brenner’s Boo on the Bayou party: a night at The Post Oak Hotel, dinner for four at Grotto Ristorante, and happy hour for six at Cadillac Bar. Music, cocktails, and late-night bites will add to the merrymaking. Boo on the Bayou begins at 5 pm on Halloween night.
The Fancy at Hotel Lucine
The Galveston hotel’s “fine-ish” dining establishment is launching “Fancy After Dark,” a once-a-month happening that promises drag shows, burlesque, raw bar specials, and late-night snacks. The new late-night concept makes its debut with the Halloween show, spotlighting Drag Queen Miss Bitter Betty of Dragula. Entry is complimentary to those with dinner reservations, or to walk-ins after 10 pm, depending on space. The bash is from 10 pm-2 am on Saturday, October 25.
Endless Bummer
Betelgeuse Betelguese’s gothic tiki bar speakeasy is being haunted this October. The Haunted Luau has taken over Endless Bummer, along with creepy cocktails like the Be Still My Heart, with spiced rum, dark rum, 151, crème de cassis, fresh blackberry, simple, lemon, and soda. Reservations can be made here.
Food and Drink Specials
Buttermilk Baby
Ben Berg’s whimsical diner is whipping up two spooky soft serve treats. Stop by from now until October 31 to sample the Graveyard Delight — chocolate soft serve with Oreo crumbs, gummy worms, and whipped cream — or the Monster Mash Dasher, a vanilla soft serve with Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, Reese’s Peanut Butter Sauce, whipped cream, chocolate sauce, and sprinkles. Both are priced at $9 for a 12 ounce and $10 for a 16 ounce.
Craft Pita
Spice up October with Craft Pita’s limited edition "Scary Habanero" hot sauce. The small-batch sauce is available at both locations for $10. At the West University location on Saturday, October 25, patrons who purchase a meal can receive a free pumpkin and decorating kit. Pumpkins are first-come, first-served.
Zanti Cucina Italiana – River Oaks
No better way to toast to witches and wizards than with a Spooky Cocktail Tree boasting either five or 12 beverages. Libations range from the Phantom Fog, with gin, Cointreau, lemon juice, and blackberry hibiscus lavender syrup, to the Wicked Whiskey, a creation of bourbon, Averna, ginger liqueur, lemon juice, and black-infused turbinado sugar with red pearls. The cocktail tree is on the menu through October 31.
Conclusion
Halloween in Houston is an event to remember, with a wide range of activities and specials to suit all ages and interests. From family-friendly events like pumpkin carving and dog parades, to 21+ only parties and spooky cocktails, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. Whether you’re looking for a fun night out with friends or a spooky celebration with the family, Houston has got you covered. So put on your best costume and get ready to join in the Halloween fun in Houston!
