Halloween is one of those holidays where it’s all about the entertainment. Haunted houses, costume parties, community events and activities…you know, the essentials. There’s truly nothing else like it! This is ESPECIALLY true in the Altoona community. (We’re Central Iowa’s entertainment capital, after all.)
With options ranging from chill and family-friendly to adrenaline-pumping and rowdy—you’ll find your vibe of choice here. All you have to do is look around! Keep reading to learn more about local events, get-togethers and other fun things to do in Altoona, Iowa this Halloween.
Adventureland Phantom Fall Fest (Weekends thru Oct. 29)
The Home of Iowa’s Best Thrills just got even more thrilling. That’s right, Phantom Fall Fest has returned to Adventureland, with more screams, shrieks and scary surprises than ever before! Weave your way through 4 terrifying haunted houses. Venture deep into 4 all-new scare zones. Go for a spin on all your favorite rides. And so much more…if you dare!
Learn more and purchase tickets here.
Business Trick or Treat (Oct. 25, 5-7pm)
Okay, this one’s a lot less scary. If you’re looking for a good kid-friendly event (with lots of candy), then you should head on over to the Altoona Area Chamber of Commerce’s Business Trick or Treat on Wednesday, October 25! It will feature more than 30 booths from our business community, a scavenger hunt, and – as we promised – lots of candy!
Halloween Bash at Hawk Heaven Tavern (Oct. 28, 8pm-midnight)
Like we said before, no spooky season is complete without a fun costume party. Rest assured, Hawk Heaven Tavern has you covered—and without a cover charge! They’re throwing a Haunted Corn Maze-themed Halloween Bash on Saturday, October 28. Get dressed up and stop by for a night of good drinks, good vibes, and good live music from Drivethirty5.
Visit our website to add this event to your calendar!
Trick-or-Treat at the Outlets of Des Moines (Oct. 28, 5-7pm)
Shopping, costumes and lots of treats…and all for a good cause! Stop by the Outlets of Des Moines from 5-7pm on Saturday, October 28 for their annual Trick-or-Treat event. Don’t forget to bring personal hygiene items and/or canned foods for donation to the Caring Hands Outreach Center!
Click here to get more information.
Beggar’s Night in Altoona (Oct. 30, 6-8pm)
Trick-or-treat who? If you live in the Greater Des Moines area, you probably know that this annual candy-collecting evening goes by a different name—Beggar’s Night. Not only is the name itself different, but so is the format. Instead of simply saying “trick or treat”, kids have to tell a joke before receiving their candy! That’s right, we do things differently here in the Hawkeye State.
Grab your pumpkin buckets, pillowcases or whatever else you use to gather the goodies—Altoona’s Beggar’s Night kicks off at 6pm on Monday, October 30!
Read more about the tradition here.
Events at the Altoona Public Library
The Altoona Public Library is going all in on Halloween festivities this year! They’ve got three different events coming up, catering to adults and kids alike. Click below to sign up and learn more about each of them!
- Ghost Hunt (Oct. 13, 6-8pm)
- DIY Haunted Doll Houses (Oct. 17, 6:30-7:30pm)
- Murder Mystery Program (Oct. 31, 6-8pm)
Pumpkin-Picking & More at Upstream Gardens
Don’t worry, we wouldn’t dare create a Halloween activity guide without mentioning the physical embodiment of the holiday itself—pumpkins. Upstream Gardens in Altoona is the perfect place to pick yours!
Their farm is a slice of country heaven, offering a healthy dose of peace and quiet during a typically busy holiday season. Plus, in addition to pumpkins, they have TONS more produce and other locally crafted products for you to enjoy! Apples, pears, berries, honey, plant starters and more—it’s all worth checking out!
Visit their website to learn more.
Have a Spook-tacular Halloween in Altoona!
Whether you’re seeking heart-pounding thrills or just a fun place to chill this spooky season, we can’t wait to host all your Halloween adventures. Have a blast and be safe!