Every October, the DMV delivers spooky spectacles, artistic themes and loads of candy that’s beyond any child’s dreams. From Capitol Hill’s flamboyant flairs to Silver Spring’s DIY horror shows, here are the top spots to explore for an unforgettable Halloween night.
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Capitol Hill
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Capitol Hill transforms into a Halloween wonderland each year, with each home showcasing its own wildly unique theme. On Tennessee Avenue, the famous Hats on the Hill display suspends whimsical witch hats across the street, which is a perfect photo spot for visitors.
Just a few blocks away, East Capitol Street is where trick-or-treat reaches its prime. Here, residents hand out pieces of candy by the thousands, attracting massive crowds to the area.
Georgetown
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The historic charm of Georgetown takes on a creepy twist during Halloween. The blocks around 31st and Q streets come alive with animated figures, graveyards and elaborate decorations. A must-see is the Bowie-Sevier House on Q Street, which is famous for its over-the-top displays, including skeletons towering over 12 feet high. It’s an upscale haunt-meets-Hollywood set design.
Catalina Terrace in Silver Spring
Known locally as the Catalina Haunt, this Silver Spring home located on Catalina Terrace has been scaring visitors for over a decade. Featuring custom built animatronics and an immersive porch and driveway walk-through experience, it’s a fully DIY attraction that has countless visitors every year. The homeowner is also known for giving away king-sized candy bars, ensuring everyone leaves the home feeling thrilled.
Spooky activities
Del Rey Halloween Parade
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Every Halloween, the tree-lined streets of Del Ray burst with color, costumes and community pride for the annual Del Ray Halloween Parade. Recognized as one of USA Today’s “10 Best Halloween Parades,” this neighborhood celebration captures the magic of the small-town Halloween season.
The parade starts off at 2 p.m. at East Bellefonte Avenue and makes its way to the Mount Vernon Recreation Center Field. Thousands of locals and visitors gather to watch families and even pets wear their most creative costumes. The parade also features contests where participants can vote for the best costumes, the best pet costumes and even the best stroller transformations.
Takoma Park Monster Bash
The streets of Takoma Park transform into a vibrant Halloween festival during the Monster Bash, which is an annual tradition that bonds the community. Designed for all ages but especially exciting for kids, the Monster Bash is entirely free and offers a safe way to celebrate the season.
Activities that usually take place during the Monster Bash are costume parades, costume contests, trick or treating, and live entertainment. There are lots of opportunities for photos around the park as well.
Pumpkin Palooza
In the heart of DC’s NoMa neighborhood, Pumpkin Palooza is a vibrant fall festival that turns Alethia Tanner Park into a pumpkin wonderland. Hosted by the NoMa Business Improvement District, the event draws hundreds of families for an afternoon of seasonal fun.
Children can pick their own pumpkins and decorate them on-site. Pumpkin picking and decorating is completely free while supplies last. Live music also fills the air, and costumed performers bring characters from favorite kid movies to life.
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Allison Chan is a Washington Parent intern and a rising senior at Winston Churchill High School in Potomac, Maryland. She is passionate about writing and community engagement.
Allison Chan is a Washington Parent intern and a rising senior at Winston Churchill High School in Potomac, Maryland. She is passionate about writing and community engagement.
