Halloween Itinerary: Lancaster, PA for Kids & Families

Halloween Itinerary: Lancaster, PA for Kids & Families

Why Lancaster for Halloween?

October in Lancaster County mixes farm-harvest traditions, kid-friendly spookiness, and community events. Families can enjoy corn mazes, pumpkin patches, trick-or-treat nights, and just enough haunted fun for older kids.


Day 1 – Arrival & Pumpkin Kickoff

Afternoon

  • Cherry Hill Orchards or a local pumpkin patch
    Pick pumpkins, sip cider, and let kids wander through hayrides and fall displays.

  • Add pumpkin painting back at your hotel or Airbnb for evening downtime.

Evening

  • Downtown Lancaster Halloween Parade (10/26/25 7:00-9:00 PM)
    Enjoy floats, costumes, and community fun. If the timing doesn’t line up, swap in other fun Halloween fun in Lancaster County.


Day 2 – Farms, Mazes & Family Frights

Morning

  • Cherry Crest Adventure Farm
    Corn maze (daylight hours are kid-friendly), slides, pedal carts, and barnyard animals. Perfect outlet for energy.

  • Snack: Cider donuts & hot chocolate.

Afternoon

  • Amish Village or Old Windmill Farm
    Hands-on farm experience. While not Halloween-themed, kids love bottle-feeding animals and wagon rides amid the fall colors.

Evening

  • Happy Hauntings at Dutch Wonderland
    Rides reimagined for Halloween, trick-or-treat stations, themed shows. It’s all “not-too-spooky,” ideal for kids 12 and under.

  • Alternative for older kids/teens: Field of Screams (super intense haunted attraction, best for 13+).


Day 3 – Sweet Treats & Sendoff

Morning

Midday

  • Lancaster Central Market
    Pick up whoopie pies, pumpkin bread, and caramel apples to take home. Perfect last bite of Lancaster in October.


Strasburg Rail Road - Strasburg, PA

Optional Add-ins

  • Halloween Below are some special Halloween and October activities you’ll want to add to your itinerary.
  • Events Looking for exciting events in Lancaster, PA? Whether you’re planning a weekend outing or a special family outing, our guide helps you explore engaging events—from outdoor activities and craft expos to music events and focuses on curiosity, creativity, and fun.
  • Things To Do – From the scenic rolling farmlands and covered bridges to the variety of entertainment and attractions, you’ll enjoy the many Lancaster things to do here.
  • Restaurants Lancaster area cuisine should not be underestimated. Restaurants in the Lancaster County area have developed a reputation for quality food with that fresh-from-the-farm taste.
  • Shopping The high caliber of products you’ll find in Lancaster County stores and shops is a reflection of the solid work ethic for which Lancaster County is known.
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