This article was originally posted in 2022 and was updated in 2023 to reflect this year’s latest Halloween activities in the Park City area. We hope you enjoy.
I used to love Halloween as a kid, and then again when my kids were young. In Park City, there are many neighborhoods with mostly permanent residents that have trick-or-treating. But, there are also many areas with second homeowners or that are otherwise not conducive to the traditional costume for candy gathering.
Not to worry, there are plenty of ways to celebrate the spooky season in Park City. There is fun to be had for all ages, even our furry friends can get in on the reaction.
1. Scarecrow Festival
Each year in late September, you have the chance to decorate the historic McPolin Farm trail with a scarecrow from your own imagination. They provide the stuffing and the support stick, you bring the head, clothing, shoes and props to make your best traditional, scary or funny scarecrow. Enjoy the scarecrows throughout the fall as you walk or ride along the paved path. Information at ParkCity.org.
2. Halloween on Main Street
Named one of the top Halloween celebrations in the country by Town and Leisure Magazine, this annual tradition invites young, old and four-legged friends for a spooky stroll down historic Main Street. Trick or Treating is 3:00 to 5:00, and it’s always a busy day so be sure to utilize public transit, even with your pups. Information at HistoricParkCityUtah.com.
3. Haunted Forest at Park City Gardens
In what is becoming a fun new tradition, Park City Gardens hosts an outdoor haunt during the month of October. They are continually adding new tricks (and a few treats) and this is a pleasant stroll whether it’s snowy or warm. Information at ParkCityNursery.com.
4. Craft Scary Good Treats at Deer Valley
If you’re looking to add a dash of magic to your Halloween celebrations, Deer Valley has you covered. The Deer Valley Cafe is hosting two bewitching culinary experiences that are sure to elevate your Halloween party game: Halloween Spooky Cocktails and Halloween Party Spooky Appetizers. There are two dates for each so check out the events calendar and get signed up. DeerValley.com
5. Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos) Ofrenda
Day of the Dead offers a different kind of fall tradition to remember and honor loved ones who have passed away. The Park City Library on Park Avenue provides an ofrenda through early November where the public can share a memory or place something at the altar. Information at ParkCityLibrary.org.
6. Celebrate the Spirits at Basin Recreation
Our beloved Basin Recreation does Halloween for the family at Willow Creek Park on the Saturday before Halloween. This drop-in event is packed with activities, contests, vendors and trick-or-treating around the loop. Information at BasinRecreation.org.
7. Witches Night Out in Heber
Enjoy an enchanting evening as you learn the history of Utah’s spirits at the Witches Night Out event at the Heber Nursery. 2023 is the first annual event and will delve into the rich legacy of Utah’s distilling traditions, led by Wine Academy of Utah. With over five tastings from Utah distilleries, you won’t want to miss it.
8. Take the Pumpkin Plunge at the South Summit Aquatic Center
A unique tradition that is a family favorite in Kamas, kids under 11 can float around the pool with pumpkins that they can then decorate. This year, SSAFC will also be hosting a Zombie 5K Run on Saturday as well as a Wicked Pickleball Tournament. More information at ssafc.org.
9. Halloween Events at the Summit County Libraries
The Summit County Library is always cooking up fun activities for each season, and Halloween is no exception. Not only can you join in on a Haunted House at the Park City branch, you can create a spooky ghost at the Kamas or Kimball Junction library with other teens. Be sure to check the website for details and the latest. TheSummitCountyLibrary.org.
10. Trunk or Treat at the Dejoria Center
Live in a neighborhood that’s not suitable for trick-or-treating? No problem, bring your treats and wear your costume to trick-or-treat out of your trunk! The event is 6:00 to 8:30 pm with costume contest winners announced at 8:00. Those over 21 can come a few days earlier on the 27th for for the adult costume party at the State Road Tavern. More information at HighStarRanch.com.
11. Find the Perfect Pumpkin at the Heber Patch
Ranch Farms is a family-owned, self-service pumpkin patch in Heber. Besides the different varieties of pumpkins, what makes this patch unique is that you can go and find the pumpkins right in the field where they were grown. With Mount Timpanogos in the background, this will make for some gorgeous Halloween photos of your little ones choosing the perfect pumpkin. Information at HeberPumpkinPatch.com.
12. Ride the Pumpkin Train at the Heber Valley Railroad
The annual pumpkin train on the Heber Creeper features a 40-minute train ride with zombies, cookies and a pumpkin at the end. They also offer a longer Halloween Train that might be better for adults and older children. Information at HeberValleyRR.org.
13. Donate Blood at Deer Valley’s Transylvania Tea Party
Ever the community player, Deer Valley gives employees and community members an opportunity to donate blood at this annual event that begin in 2003. Make an appointment this Halloween Day and help save the lives of patients at the University of Utah Hospitals and Clinics, Hunstman Cancer Institute and South Jordan Health Center. Information at ARUPbloodservices.org.