Halloween is enthusiastically celebrated in Canada and the United States, but there are subtle differences in how each country approaches the spooky season. While both nations celebrate traditions like trick-or-treating, pumpkin carving, and dressing up in costumes, Canada tends to place more emphasis on community-based events. This makes for some great spooky fun if you’re celebrating Halloween in Toronto! From haunted houses and ghost walks to family-friendly pumpkin patches, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during the haunting season. Including memorable experiences with City Cruises. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best Halloween activities in Toronto 2024.
Haunted Attractions and Spooky Walks in Toronto
For those who love a good scare, Toronto is home to some of the most thrilling haunted attractions in Canada. The city’s dark side comes alive during Halloween.
Screemers
If you’re looking for a full-throttle horror experience, Screemers is Toronto’s premier haunted attraction, and it’s not for the faint of heart! Taking over the Queen Elizabeth Building at Exhibition Place, Screemers offers multiple haunted houses, live scare actors, and intense horror mazes. New themes are added each year to keep even the bravest visitors on their toes. This is a must-do if you’re looking for the ultimate fright-night experience.
Casa Loma’s Legends of Horror
For those seeking a haunted experience with a touch of grandeur, Toronto’s historic gothic-style castle Casa Loma transforms into a haunted house like no other. Legends of Horror is a 2-kilometer immersive walk-through tour of the castle grounds featuring elaborate sets, live actors, and heart-pounding surprises. The meticulous attention to detail in the storytelling, props, and actors makes it feel like you’ve stepped into a classic horror film. As you navigate the dimly lit corridors and spooky gardens of Casa Loma, you’ll encounter classic horror characters like Dracula, Frankenstein, and other creatures of the night.
The Haunted Walk of Toronto
If you want to mix history with hauntings, the Haunted Walk of Toronto is an excellent option. This guided walking tour takes you through the city’s most haunted locations while sharing ghostly tales rooted in Toronto’s history. You’ll visit sites like Mackenzie House, the University of Toronto, and other dark corners of the city where spirits are said to linger. What makes the Haunted Walk so compelling is its blend of historical accuracy and scary storytelling. It’s the perfect activity for those who enjoy a more subdued but equally spooky Halloween experience. The tour is filled with spine-tingling stories that will make you see Toronto in a whole new (and scarier) light. Or should we say dark?
Family-Friendly Halloween Fun
For families and those looking for less fright and more fun, Toronto offers a variety of Halloween activities that are perfect for kids and adults alike.
Halloween Pumpkin Party
A fun-filled family day at Westfield Heritage Village, the Halloween Pumpkin Party will feature pumpkin-themed activities, including traditional Halloween games and a spooktacular showcase of carved pumpkins. The crazy pumpkin slingshot is always popular, and a tractor ride will take you down a beautiful forest path. Meet a family of friendly scarecrows when you cross the covered bridge. There will also be pumpkin-themed cooking and baking demonstrations. This event is catered to all ages, and visitors are encouraged to dress up in their favourite costumes. There may even be some scary activities for those who are feeling brave.
Pumpkinfest Toronto
Held at Downsview Park, Pumpkinfest is a family-friendly festival featuring a pumpkin patch, carnival rides, food trucks, and plenty of autumn-themed activities. On October 11, 12, 13, and 14, kids can decorate pumpkins, get lost in an inflatable corn maze, and enjoy a day of outdoor fun. The festival also offers live entertainment and games. It’s a wholesome way to celebrate the season without the scares, making it ideal for young children or anyone looking for laid-back autumn fun.
Make City Cruise Part of Your Plans for Halloween 2024
Toronto Premier Dinner Cruise on Odyssey
Experience the best of autumn in Toronto with a Premier Dinner Cruise. Spend your evening on Toronto Harbour with dining, picturesque views, and DJ entertainment. While onboard, you’ll enjoy our chef-prepared plated menu, creative cocktails, distinctive service, and breathtaking views of Toronto’s skyline. Experience Toronto’s attractions from our climate-controlled interior and open-air rooftop deck. Whether for a romantic dinner for two, a special evening with friends and family, or a Halloween-spirited celebration with friends, our dinner cruises are the perfect way to elevate any occasion and see Toronto from the waters of Lake Ontario!
Toronto 60-Minute Sightseeing Harbour Tour
Discover the historic and contemporary sites and nuances of Toronto Harbor during this fun, informative, and fully narrated 60-minute Sightseeing Harbour Tour. Enjoy the crisp, relaxing fall breeze, spectacular skyline, and harbour views, plus a fully licensed beverage and snack bar. With the option of an indoor deck, you’ll be comfortable in any season, especially if the temperatures get too chilly. You’ll cruise past the CN Tower, HTO Park, Rogers Centre, Redpath Sugar Factory, Sugar Beach, and Toronto Islands.
Trick or Treat in Toronto this Halloween
Whether you’re looking for intense scares, family-friendly fun, or a unique Halloween experience, Toronto offers many activities to make your October unforgettable. From the iconic Casa Loma to an extraordinary experience with City Cruises, there’s something for everyone in this melting pot of a city during the Halloween season. Plan your outings ahead of time, as many events sell out quickly. Happy haunting!