Halloween is fast approaching, and Anchorage has a lot to do this October, from family-friendly activities to a spooky show.    

With fall foliage on full display, the BOOtanical garden is underway at the Alaska Botanical Garden and can be seen every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, until Sunday, Oct. 22 from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. 

A mix of scary and sweet, Anchorage Parks and Recreation’s Haunted and Enchanted Trails is taking over Goose Lake Park for two days of Halloween fun. The Enchanted Trail is open for all ages on Saturday, Oct. 21, 2 - 4 p.m. while the Haunted Trail is for kids over the age of nine on Friday, Oct. 20, 7 - 9 p.m. 

Get the whole family in the spooky spirit with the Jams for Fams at the Bear Tooth Theaterepub on Sunday, Oct. 22. DJ’s will be playing music from current hits to party classics. Check out one of two sessions from 10 a.m. – noon or 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. 

Once you’ve coordinated the costumes, check out one of the many community events featuring trick-or-treat stations. Head to Town Square Park for a spooktacular afternoon at Trick or Treat Street 2023. The fun begins at noon on Saturday, Oct. 28 with activities in the park and nearby businesses handing out sweet treats.  

The annual Zoo Boo event at the Alaska Zoo begins on Sunday, Oct. 29 where they’ll hand out candy from 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. Make sure to bring your favorite trick-or-treating containers to collect candy along their spooky trails. 

If you’re interested in an adult night out, Richard O’Brien’s Rocky Horror Show begins on Friday, Oct. 14 at Mad Myrna’s. Those in attendance are encouraged to dress up as their favorite character. Head downtown for a Halloween Bar Crawl starting at the Avenue Bar on Friday, Oct. 27 and Saturday, Oct. 28 from 4 – 10 p.m. Tickets are $9 and include one free snack, exclusive drink specials, after party, and more.  

Need a break from all candy consumption? Lace up your running shoes for the Zombie Half Marathon at Goose Lake Park on Saturday, Oct. 14 starting at 8 a.m. If you’d rather not race, get outside and enjoy the fall colors on a hike or bike ride. October is the perfect time to bike along the moose loop trail or cross off a trek from your to-do list. For more ideas about what to do in Alaska’s biggest city check out our Anchorage Neighborhood Guide.