Families get ready as the Halloween Spooktacular returns to the New York State Museum with a full day of hands-on fun and creative Halloween adventures

New York – The New York State Museum is once again preparing to welcome families for a day of fright-free fun and creativity as its much-loved Halloween Spooktacular returns this fall. The event, scheduled for Saturday, October 25, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., promises a lively mix of hands-on activities, science exploration, art projects, and festive entertainment designed for children and parents alike.

Following the enthusiastic response to last year’s revival, museum staff have crafted a brand-new lineup filled with exciting, educational, and imaginative programming. From spooky science experiments to creepy crafts, the Spooktacular will transform the museum’s fourth floor into a playful celebration of all things Halloween — without any tricks, just treats for the imagination.

“Last year’s Spooktacular was such a scream, and we’re excited to make this year’s even more spooktacular,” said Kathryn Weller, Director of Education and Visitor Services at the New York State Museum. “The Museum is a place where imagination and discovery come to life—and Halloween is the perfect time to bring out our playful side. We can’t wait to welcome families back for a day filled with creativity, laughter, and maybe just a few goosebumps!”

A Playful Take on a Classic Tradition

The Halloween Spooktacular has quickly become one of the museum’s most cherished traditions, offering families a chance to celebrate the holiday in a fun, safe, and interactive environment. The event is designed with young visitors in mind, emphasizing learning through play and encouraging curiosity through creativity.

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Highlights this year include creepy art projects, ghoulish games, and a collection of fascinating science specimens that will give kids a hands-on look at some of nature’s stranger side. A lively dance floor will keep the energy high, while the children’s costume parade will close the day with laughter and color as kids show off their Halloween outfits to the crowd.

Unlike many Halloween celebrations, the Spooktacular avoids jump scares and candy-filled chaos, opting instead for an engaging, educational experience that celebrates curiosity and imagination. The museum emphasizes that no candy or snacks will be provided during the event, maintaining a focus on creativity and discovery rather than sugar rushes.

A Family-Friendly Day of Discovery

The New York State Museum has long served as a hub of education and cultural exploration, and events like the Halloween Spooktacular are an extension of that mission. Staff and volunteers work to create activities that inspire a sense of wonder while encouraging children to explore art, science, and storytelling in new ways.

The Spooktacular also gives parents a chance to enjoy quality time with their children in a welcoming and inclusive environment. With its blend of crafts, music, and lighthearted Halloween fun, the event provides families with a unique way to celebrate the season while learning something new together.

For many attendees, the costume parade remains the highlight of the day. Kids dressed as superheroes, ghosts, pumpkins, and princesses march proudly through the museum, waving to parents and museum-goers alike. It’s a joyful reminder that Halloween is as much about imagination and self-expression as it is about tradition.

A Museum Steeped in History

Founded in 1836, the New York State Museum stands as the oldest and largest public museum in the United States. With more than 20 million artifacts in its collections — spanning over a billion years of natural and human history — the museum is home to an extraordinary range of exhibits that tell the story of New York’s past and present.

From fossils and geological formations to historical artifacts and cultural exhibits, the museum serves as both an educational institution and a center for research. Scientists, historians, and anthropologists working at the museum continue to uncover new insights about the state’s environment, history, and people.

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Located at 222 Madison Avenue in Albany, the museum is open Tuesday through Sunday, from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., with free admission for all visitors. It remains closed on July 4, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.

Plan Ahead for Parking

Visitors attending the Halloween Spooktacular should note that parking at the Empire State Plaza will be limited due to a scheduled training exercise. The Empire State Plaza Visitor (V) Lot will be closed for the day, but free parking will be available at both the East Garage and the Madison Avenue Lot.

Families are encouraged to plan their visit early to make the most of the event and explore the museum’s permanent exhibits before or after the Spooktacular festivities.

A Celebration of Imagination

Each year, the Halloween Spooktacular brings together families from across the region for a celebration of creativity, curiosity, and community spirit. It’s not just a Halloween party — it’s an invitation to imagine, explore, and learn in one of the most inspiring spaces in New York.

For more details about the event, visitors can check the Halloween Spooktacular 2025 event page or visit the museum’s official website. With music, crafts, science, and plenty of costumes, this year’s celebration promises to be another unforgettable day at the New York State Museum — a place where discovery meets delight and every visitor leaves with a smile.