As the humidity finally eases and October creeps in, Tampa Bay comes alive with fall energy, even if we’re still trading sweaters for shorts. Whether you’re planning family-friendly fun or a spine-tingling night out, the region’s Halloween and fall events lineup for 2025 has something for everyone. Below is your go-to guide to the best upcoming happenings across Tampa, St. Petersburg, Plant City, and beyond.
Top Halloween & Fall Events in Tampa Bay 2025
Howl-O-Scream at Busch Gardens
A perennial fan favorite, Howl-O-Scream returns at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, running select nights from September 5 through November 1.
Expect multiple haunted houses, scare zones, eerie live shows, DJ dance parties, and themed bars.
This event operates after dark (starting ~7 PM) and requires separate tickets (daytime park admission does not include access).
Creatures of the Night at ZooTampa
For a family-friendly Halloween experience, check out Creatures of the Night at ZooTampa.
Held on select October nights, this event features what organizers call “eerie fun for all ages”! From themed zones and costumed characters to spooky treats and dance parties.
In 2025, new additions include “Mesozoic Mayhem” (a spooky dinosaur twist) along with returning favorites like Vampire Ball and Troll Cave.
MOSI’s Ghoulish Gala: Twisted Carnival
The Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI) is hosting an 18+ evening of haunting science fun: MOSI’s Ghoulish Gala: Twisted Carnival on October 25.
The event features interactive experiments, tarot readings, live entertainment, themed cocktails, a costume contest, and a spooky carnival atmosphere.
Tampa Riverwalk Trick or Treat
Bring the little goblins (and big ones) to Riverwalk Trick or Treat, scheduled for Saturday, October 25, 2025 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Cotanchobee Park and the Tampa Convention Center.
Participants in costume will receive treat bags (while supplies last).
Eerie Evening at the Tampa Bay Hotel (Henry B. Plant Museum)
Step into a Victorian ghost story with An Eerie Evening at the Tampa Bay Hotel, running October 24–26 and 29–31 from 6:00 to 9:00 PM.
Wander moonlit historic halls, view vintage horror films (Dracula, Frankenstein, etc.), meet the spirit of Edgar Allan Poe, and solve hidden clues in an immersive mystery.
Scream-A-Geddon (Dade City)
If you’re willing to venture a bit outside Tampa proper, Scream-A-Geddon offers a multi-attraction haunted event in Dade City.
Expect 3D funhouses, zombie paintball, haunted trails, carnival midway food, and beer gardens.
WARNING: Intense Haunted House experience. Waiver on website must be completed prior to arrival. “Boo To Bay Brokerage” does not recommend bringing your kids or wimpy friends (myself included) to this one!
Other Seasonal Events & Festivals
Hyde Park Pumpkin Patch (Tampa)— Runs through October, open daily with seasonal photo ops, pumpkins for sale, and fall vibes.
Horse Power Fall Fundraiser— Every Saturday & Sunday in October (through Nov 1), featuring pony rides, hayrides, live music, farm animals, games, and crafts.
UNDead in the Water — A spooky shipboard haunt aboard the American Victory Ship & Museum on weekend nights.
Pioneer Florida Museum Scarecrow Festival (Dade City) — A family-friendly fall event with easy crafts, pony rides, pumpkin picking, and scarecrow contests.
Tampa Oktoberfest (Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park) — Authentic Bavarian food, live music, and fall fest vibes.
Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Autumn Harvest Festival — Hayrides, food trucks, crafts, and seasonal fun near St. Petersburg.
Planning Tips & Suggested Themes
- Book early for haunted events. Many venues (especially Howl-O-Scream and Creature nights) sell out on peak dates.
- Check age/ scare level. Some events are scary (haunted houses or 18+ only). Others are low-intensity and family friendly.
- Costumes encouraged (sometimes required)! Arrive in your best Halloween looks, many events have costume contests!
- Mind the timing. Haunted events often run after dark; daytime fall festivals, pumpkin patches, and Sunday events offer more gentle fun.
- Scope out parking and logistics. In busy areas like Ybor City, downtown Tampa, or Busch Gardens, arrive early for the best parking options.
Conclusion
Whether you’re chasing thrills in haunted houses or searching for mellow family fall fun, Tampa Bay’s 2025 Halloween lineup delivers. From spine-tingling nights at Howl-O-Scream to aesthetic pumpkin patches, there are dozens of ways to soak up spooky season in the Sunshine State. Mark your calendars, get your costumes ready and prepare to enjoy Halloween in Tampa Bay like never before!