Halloween in Boothbay Harbor: Parades, Parties & Spooky Fun
As autumn settles over Maine’s coast, Boothbay Harbor transforms into a seaside town filled with pumpkins, costumes, and just the right amount of spooky fun. From the beloved community Halloween parade to haunted Ghost Tours and family-friendly trunk-or-treat events, there is something for every kind of visitor. Whether you are planning a fall getaway or you live right here in town, Boothbay Harbor is the perfect place to celebrate the magic of Halloween.
In this guide, you will find details on the parades, ghost trains, and local festivities, along with insider tips on where to eat, stay, and explore during October.
Boothbay Harbor’s Halloween Highlights
Every October, Boothbay Harbor comes alive with festive events that blend small-town community charm with coastal character. The heart of Halloween here is its community-driven celebrations, where families, friends, and visitors gather downtown for seasonal fun.
Annual Boothbay Harbor Halloween Parade
The Halloween Parade is the centerpiece of Boothbay’s spooky season. Each year, locals and visitors line Townsend Avenue to cheer on costumed kids, floats, and community groups. Expect everything from classic witches and ghosts to creative lobster and lighthouse-themed costumes that nod to Boothbay’s maritime roots.
Insider Tip: Arrive early to grab a spot near the Memorial Library, one of the best viewing areas. After the parade, many downtown shops hand out candy, making it easy to keep the celebration going.
Railway SPOOK-tacular and Ghost Train Rides
Step back in time at the Boothbay Railway Village Museum, which transforms into a haunted wonderland during its SPOOK-tacular Ghost Train weekend. Families can ride the vintage steam train past glowing pumpkins, spooky displays, and costumed volunteers who bring the event to life.
This event is especially popular with families thanks to its safe, festive atmosphere. In addition to the train ride, visitors can explore trick-or-treat stations, games, and seasonal treats around the historic village grounds.
Tickets sell fast, so booking in advance is recommended.
Trunk or Treat at Local Churches and Businesses
For younger kids, Boothbay Harbor offers Trunk or Treat events hosted by local churches and businesses. These gatherings feature decorated cars, themed candy stations, and interactive games, all in a safe and family-friendly environment.
Parents love this option for its walkable setup and community feel, while kids get to enjoy plenty of candy without the worry of busy streets.
Spooky Tours and Haunted History
Beyond pumpkins and parades, Boothbay Harbor has a darker, more mysterious side. With its maritime past, historic buildings, and centuries of coastal legends, it is the perfect place for a ghostly adventure.
Ghost Walks Through Historic Downtown
Join a guided
Ghost Tours in Boothbay Harbor with American Ghost Walks, and explore the haunted corners of downtown. Storytellers share eerie tales of shipwrecks, sea captains, and unexplained happenings that linger in this historic fishing village. These tours are equal parts history and haunting, making them a must for curious travelers.
Travel Tip: Most ghost walks take place at night. Bring a jacket, as October evenings by the water can get chilly.
Opera House Events and Spooky Readings
The Boothbay Harbor Opera House, a landmark in the community, often hosts concerts and special seasonal events around Halloween. From candlelit storytelling nights to concerts with a spooky twist, it is an atmospheric way to spend an October evening.
The Opera House’s historic charm adds to the setting, making it feel like you have stepped back into another era, perfect for Halloween week.
Family-Friendly Halloween Fun
Boothbay Harbor is one of Maine’s best destinations for a kid-friendly Halloween, with safe trick-or-treating and plenty of activities for all ages.
Kids’ Trick-or-Treating at Downtown Shops
Downtown businesses get into the spirit by decorating storefronts and passing out candy to trick-or-treaters. Families can stroll safely through the heart of Boothbay Harbor, with costumed shop owners joining in the fun.
Tip: Bring a bag big enough. Between the parade, library, and downtown shops, kids will collect plenty of treats.
Library Activities and Storytime
The Boothbay Harbor Memorial Library is a hub for children’s activities each October. Families can expect costume contests, pumpkin crafts, and special Halloween storytime events. It is a perfect stop for little ones before or after the parade.
Halloween for Adults
Halloween in Boothbay Harbor is not just for kids. It is also a time for nightlife, live music, and costume parties.
Costume Parties and Spook-araoke at Brady’s
Local pubs and restaurants host lively Halloween nights, with Brady’s often featuring Spook-araoke and costume contests. Expect live music, seasonal drinks, and prizes for the most creative costumes.
Seasonal Food and Drink Specials
October is the perfect month to enjoy seasonal menus. Local restaurants highlight pumpkin ales, clam chowders, and Halloween-themed desserts. Seafood lovers can enjoy seasonal lobster specials, often paired with fall harvest flavors.
Combine your evening out with a sunset harbor walk. Fall foliage and ocean views make Boothbay Harbor just as magical as the events themselves.
Planning Your Visit
Thinking of making Boothbay Harbor your Halloween getaway? Here is how to make the most of your trip.
Where to Stay in Boothbay Harbor for Halloween
Boothbay Harbor’s inns, bed and breakfasts, and boutique hotels provide a cozy fall stay. Many offer seasonal packages in October, complete with pumpkin coffee or cider by the fire.
Book early: Halloween weekend and Pumpkinfest in nearby towns can fill rooms quickly.
Nearby Events (Pumpkinfest in Damariscotta, Fall Foliage Festival)
- Pumpkinfest in Damariscotta: Just 20 minutes away, this festival features giant pumpkins, creative pumpkin boats, and parades.
- Fall Foliage Festival at Boothbay Railway Village: Celebrate autumn with crafts, food, and family fun alongside the Halloween SPOOK-tacular.
These nearby events make Boothbay Harbor a perfect base for exploring Maine’s coastal autumn celebrations.
FAQs about Halloween in Boothbay Harbor
What Halloween events are in Boothbay Harbor?
Events include the Halloween Parade, Railway SPOOK-tacular, Ghost Tours, trunk-or-treat gatherings, library storytime, and adult costume parties.
Is there a Halloween parade in Boothbay Harbor?
Yes. The Halloween Parade is an annual community favorite, marching down Townsend Avenue with costumes, floats, and music.
Where can kids trick-or-treat in Boothbay Harbor?
Children can trick-or-treat at downtown shops, during the library’s Halloween program, and at local Trunk or Treat events.
Are there haunted tours in Boothbay Harbor?
Yes, Ghost Tours in Boothbay Harbor led by American Ghost Walks explore Boothbay’s maritime legends and haunted history. These tours run in the evenings during October.
What is the best time to visit Boothbay Harbor in October?
Mid-to-late October offers the full experience with fall foliage, Pumpkinfest in Damariscotta, and Boothbay’s Halloween celebrations.
Book Your Ghost Tour in Boothbay Harbor
Halloween in Boothbay Harbor blends community traditions, spooky stories, and coastal beauty into one unforgettable celebration. Whether you are bringing kids for parades and trunk-or-treating, joining a Ghost Tour with American Ghost Walks, or enjoying a festive night out with friends, Boothbay Harbor offers a little something for everyone.
Don’t just hear the legends and experience them firsthand. Book your Ghost Tours in Boothbay Harbor today with American Ghost Walks and make this Halloween one you’ll never forget.
