Fall Fun Archives | Seattle's Child

Rain or Shine: The best family-friendly Eastside winter hikes

Jasmin Thankachen — Fri, 02 Jan 2026 16:03:46 +0000

Hiking is a welcome escape and distraction for my family, and these three hikes on the Eastside are a great way to experience the natural beauty of this area. When writing this article, my sons were nine and six and, despite our cold weather challenges, agreed that it was an adventurous winter excursion.

Here are 3 winter hikes that you don’t want to miss.

Farrell-McWhirter Farm and Park

Address: 19545 NE Redmond Rd., Redmond, WA 98053

We arrived at Farrell-McWhirter Park on a cool, dark afternoon with a light drizzle. A little rain doesn’t stop us! Along with nature trails, the park has a children’s farm. It’s open daily with horses, pigs, chickens, and a donkey who “hee-hawed” occasionally. The farm area offers short walks to the animals, horseback riding with advanced registration, and an outdoor nature school.

We walked past the red barn and the farm to enter the park. Bathrooms and washrooms were available near the front of the park. Walking up the paved path, we were immediately covered by a canopy of tall trees. We veered off the path onto the first trail, one of five different trail loops ranging from .03 to 0.5 miles. We spent the whole afternoon and hiked three of the five loops.

A little hail doesn’t stop us!

Each walk takes you over creeks and boardwalks in a very dense forest. We veered off the path a few times to splash in streams, throw rocks, shimmy across large fallen logs, and balance on tree stumps. It began to hail at one point during our hike. We stood and tried to catch the balls of ice in our mouths.

(Image: Jasmin Thankachen)

On wet weather days, raincoats are necessary for this trip. So are boots. You go through lots of soft ground, dirt and mud. The trails are relatively quiet, with few people hiking. On the east and west sides of the park, there are places to rest for a picnic, ride on the tire swing, pump our legs on the swings, and run in open pastures. We had a fantastic end to our outing. We raced across the field, jumped into piles of leaves and climbed trees.

Redmond Watershed Preserve

Address: 21760 NE Novelty Hill Rd, Redmond, WA 98053

A magical place, Redmond Watershed Preserve is a beautiful choice for a winter hike. With over seven miles of trails on four different paths, an adventure awaits for even the littlest of legs.

Despite the pouring rain (a lot of rain doesn’t stop us!), we met up with friends to walk the Trillium Connector Trail, which loops around and veers off to the east, to connect to Siler’s Mill Trail (about three miles). It was a wet, cold, muddy up-and-downhill walk. We made our way through a mature forest, wetlands, and a fern-carpeted forest floor. The trails are well-maintained and used by hikers, bikers, and horses.

The most unexpected part of our nature trip, in late fall/early winter, was the dozens upon dozens of mushrooms we saw along the way. We stopped to examine them, “This one looks like a Mario Brothers mushroom” and “That one looks like a shaggy umbrella” were a couple of observations. We counted but never touched and were in awe of these beauties.

(Image: Jasmin Thankachen)

Time for hot drinks

Walking over many roots and sploshing in slippery mud tired us all out by the last mile. We counted beetles that crossed our path and discovered many leaves of all shapes and sizes. Back at our cars, we poured hot chocolate (for the kids), spiced chai (for the adults) and snacked on yummy treats. We were drenched, but no one complained.

Check out the Trout Loop Trail (.06 mi) and the Tree Frog Loop (.05 mi) trail for shorter hikes, with gorgeous, lush green landscapes, boardwalks and a lookout point to the Redmond Watershed lake. Both are hiker-only trails. Picnic areas and bathrooms are open and located by the parking lot.

(Image courtesy of WTA.org)

Tolt River-John MacDonald Park

Address: 31020 NE 40th St, Carnation, WA 98014

Located in the Snoqualmie Valley, the Tolt River Park is an adventure your family will never forget! This winter hike will start you off at a large parking lot across from the community sports fields. Walk into the park, and you are immediately challenged to one of the trip’s highlights – the 500-ft-long suspension bridge hanging over the Snoqualmie River.

The skinny, wobbly bridge swayed back and forth as we crossed and stood to admire the swift-moving river below. In the distance, we saw fishermen wading in waist-deep in the water. “What if we fall in?” my kids asked, but we made it across safely.

Fun with sticks and paper boats

On the other side is a campground with yurts, picnic tables and a Ranger Station. We headed east on a gravel path into a mature forest grove. We traveled off the main path, through the woods, to the rocky banks of the Snoqualmie River. You could see the mist rising off the river. Hungry for lunch, we sat on large boulders (bring a blanket) for our picnic, then continued down the shore and back onto the main path.

Many little creeks and rivers lined the trail. The kids stopped to float sticks and leaves through large pipes to see if they would reach the other side.

(Image: Jasmin Thankachen)

Heading further down the trail, we took the Cottonwood Loop Trail. We walked through a fantastic display of lush green forest with yellow and orange colors all over the ground. The trail led us to a gravel bar by the river. We spent over an hour exploring the land, skipping rocks, and taking in all the brilliant colors of the forest.

My husband made paper boats from scraps in my purse and helped our kids float them down the stream. The best part of the day? “Everything!” sounded off Simon and Nikhil. We’ll be back to explore this park again, for sure.

More outdoor fun

Rainy day? Go outside anyway

Family review of the Issaquah Salmon Hatchery

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Seattle Fall Fun Guide: 40+ things to do with kids this season

Seattle's Child Staff — Tue, 04 Nov 2025 16:04:00 +0000

Crisp air, golden leaves, and pumpkin-spiced everything — fall is here, and it’s one of the best seasons to explore things to do in Seattle with kids. Your family may love crunching through trails, picking apples straight from the tree, or finding fun ways to play indoors when the rain rolls in, and we’ve got it all. There’s no shortage of ways to make the most of the season.

Here are dozens of kid-approved adventures — hikes and harvest festivals to art projects and cozy afternoons at home — to help you savor every autumn weekend.

Outdoor Fun

See the larches. Golden needles, mountain air, and kid-sized wonder — there’s nothing like fall larch season in the Pacific Northwest. Head to one of these stunning hikes where kids can crunch leaves and spot the trees glowing gold. Find family-friendly larch hikes near Seattle.

Visit a pumpkin patch. No fall is complete without a family trip to the pumpkin patch. Hunt for the perfect pumpkin, hop on a hayride, and sip hot cider surrounded by autumn color. Check out our guide to Seattle-area pumpkin patches.

Take a fall hike. Bundle up and breathe in the crisp air on one of these easy, kid-friendly fall hikes. From forest trails to lakeside loops, these walks are perfect for spotting changing leaves. Explore our favorite fall hikes.

Pick apples at a local farm. Apple picking season is short — and sweet! Load up the car, grab a basket, and head to one of these nearby orchards for a day of fresh air and juicy fruit. Find u-pick apple farms near Seattle.

Meet some furry friends. Animal sanctuaries offer kids a heartwarming way to connect with creatures great and small. Spend the day learning, petting, and supporting local rescues. Plan a family visit to an animal sanctuary.

Go troll hunting. They’re big, whimsical, and hiding in plain sight! Danish artist Thomas Dambo’s giant troll sculptures are scattered around the region — and discovering them feels like a fairy-tale quest. Find all five trolls near Seattle.

Make a nature collection. Turn an ordinary walk into a mini adventure by gathering fall leaves, acorns, and other treasures. It’s a simple way to help kids connect with the season’s colors and textures. Learn how to make a nature collection.

Stroll a wetland boardwalk. Watch ducks paddle and herons hunt along peaceful wetland trails. These family-friendly boardwalks make nature exploration easy for all ages and stroller types. See five Seattle-area wetlands to explore.

Play at a themed playground. Let imaginations run wild at playgrounds inspired by castles, trains, and even sea creatures. You’ll find creative play structures all around the Seattle area. Discover our top picks for themed playgrounds.

Ride a family-friendly bike trail. Beyond the Burke-Gilman, there are plenty of trails perfect for little legs and training wheels. Pack snacks, helmets, and go explore the region on two wheels. Find kid-friendly bike trails to try.

Visit a farm or petting zoo. Kids can meet goats, feed chickens, and learn where food comes from at local farms. Many spots offer hayrides, markets, and open barns all autumn long. See our favorite family farms and petting zoos.

Explore a garden park. Even in fall, Seattle’s garden parks burst with color and calm. Wander the paths, watch koi ponds, or simply enjoy the peace of a crisp day outdoors. Explore five kid-friendly garden parks.

Volunteer together. Doing good feels even better in sweater weather. Find family-friendly volunteer projects that teach kids about kindness and community impact. See ways to volunteer as a family.

Join a fun run. Dress up, stretch out, and hit the course! Fall fun runs combine exercise with festive themes — from Halloween costumes to turkey trots. Check out fall fun runs around Seattle.

Watch the salmon run. Nothing says Northwest fall like spotting salmon leaping upstream. Head to the Issaquah Salmon Hatchery to watch nature’s migration up close. Read our family review of the hatchery.

A vintage truck makes the perfect photo op at Bailey Farm, one of the many pumpkin patches near Seattle. (Image courtesy Bailey Farm)

Indoor Fun

Explore indoor play & activities. Rainy day? No problem. Seattle offers tons of indoor playgrounds and creative activity centers where kids can climb, imagine, and play while you sip something warm. Check out our definitive guide to inside activities around Seattle.

Take a swim lesson. When the weather cools down, head indoors and make a splash. From tots to teens, Seattle-area pools offer lessons that build confidence and safety in the water. Find swim lessons near you.

Catch a show. Seattle’s stages are buzzing this fall with kid-friendly plays, musicals, and performances for every age. From puppets to fairy tales, these shows make a perfect family outing. See our fall theater guide.

Play in the sand — indoors! The rain can’t stop sandcastles at Sandgarden in Issaquah. Kids can dig, pour, and build to their hearts’ content while parents relax in a comfy beach-vibe setting. Read our parent review.

Visit a museum. Seattle’s museums are full of hands-on exhibits and fascinating discoveries for every age — from MoPOP’s pop-culture icons to MOHAI’s deep dive into local history. Read more about MoPOP, Pacific Science Center, Frye Art Museum, MOHAI, and The Museum of Flight.

Visit for free on First Thursdays. Mark your calendar for the first Thursday of each month, when many Seattle museums open their doors for free. It’s the perfect way to explore new exhibits without spending a dime. Find free First Thursday museum days.

Be inspired by young artists. Check out the latest exhibit at King Street Station, where teen curators bring fresh perspectives to Seattle’s arts scene. It’s a thoughtful, creative experience for kids and parents alike. Learn more about the exhibit.

Bounce, climb, and zip. Sky Zone in Mountlake Terrace offers a giant ninja course, zip lines, slides, and trampolines for hours of high-energy play. Rainy-day wiggles? Solved. Get the details.

Inflate the fun. Arena Sports’ Inflatable Fun Zone is a hit for preschoolers and grade-schoolers alike. Let them climb, bounce, and burn energy while you cheer them on from the sidelines. Read our parent review.

Play a game together. Grab a table at Mox Boarding House, where families can enjoy board games, food, and cozy vibes — or pick up a new favorite to take home. Discover Mox.

Explore local game shops. Want even more ways to play? Seattle-area game stores invite you to shop, stay, and roll the dice with fellow gamers of all ages. Find game stores where you can play and buy.

Flip out over pinball. Step into a world of lights and sound at the Seattle Pinball Museum. Admission covers unlimited play — and endless nostalgia. Plan your visit.

Explore beneath the waves. The Seattle Aquarium’s new Ocean Pavilion brings shimmering sea life and interactive experiences to downtown. Perfect for a drizzly afternoon. See what’s new at the Aquarium.

Visit a local library. Cozy up with a good story at one of the Puget Sound region’s coolest libraries, or drop in for a free storytime for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers. Tour our favorite libraries or find a storytime near you.

Browse a bookstore. Pair books and bites at independent bookstores that welcome young readers — and their parents’ coffee cravings. Explore Seattle-area bookstores with cafés.

Grab a cozy cup. When you need a caffeine boost and the kids need space to play, head to one of Seattle’s many kid-friendly coffee shops. See our favorites.

Kids can jump, climb, and burn off energy at Sky Zone and other indoor playgrounds around Seattle. (Image courtesy SkyZone)

Spooky Fall Fun

Go mini golfing with monsters. Glow-in-the-dark golf, spooky decor, and silly fun await at Monster Mini Golf in Bellevue. Kids will love the themed holes and arcade games — it’s all frightfully good fun without the scares. Plan your visit.

Enjoy not-so-scary Halloween fun. You don’t need jump scares to celebrate spooky season! From pumpkin patches and parades to costume contests and trick-or-treat trails, there are plenty of ways for families to join in the Halloween spirit. Find not-so-scary Halloween ideas here.

Find a family Halloween event. From Boo-fests to harvest carnivals, the Seattle area is packed with Halloween happenings for every age and comfort level. Grab your costumes and get exploring! See our full guide to in-person Halloween events.

Celebrate spooky season for free. Halloween fun doesn’t have to cost a thing. Check out free Trunk-or-Treats, downtown trick-or-treat walks, and community carnivals happening throughout October. Explore top free Halloween events near Seattle.

Host a pumpkin-carving party. Grab your pumpkins, stencils, and snacks for a cozy carving night at home. Turn it into a family or neighborhood tradition with music, games, and prizes for the silliest or spookiest design. Get our pumpkin-carving party tips.

Families can join community Trunk-or-Treat events and other not-so-scary Halloween celebrations around Seattle.

Cozy Fall Fun at Home

Get crafty with fall art projects. When the weather turns chilly, bring the colors of fall indoors. From leaf collages to apple prints, these easy art ideas will keep little hands busy and imaginations bright. Try these fall craft projects and this simple art activity.

Make spooky snacks. Turn snack time into a Halloween celebration with these fun, frightfully cute recipes. Think banana ghosts, monster apples, and spiderweb cupcakes your little trick-or-treaters will love. Get the recipes.

Roast perfect pumpkin seeds. Don’t toss those seeds after carving — roast them! This easy recipe turns leftovers into a crunchy, lightly salted snack that’s fun to make with kids. Here’s the secret to perfect roasted pumpkin seeds.

Read together. Curl up with a blanket and a stack of good books. The Alliance for Education’s fall book list highlights stories that spark curiosity, kindness, and creativity for readers of all ages. Browse the book list.

Create a nature collection. Head outside, gather leaves, pinecones, and acorns, then turn them into art at home. It’s a simple way to blend outdoor exploration with cozy indoor creativity. Learn how to make one.

Celebrate Diwali with crafts. The Festival of Lights brings color and joy to fall. Kids can make their own paper diyas and lanterns while learning about the holiday’s traditions and meaning. Make festive Diwali crafts.

Have we convinced you that Seattle has something magical waiting around every corner this season?! Bookmark this guide for fall things to do in Seattle with kids and check off a few ideas each week — your memories are waiting to be made.

“Colorful tissue paper lantern crafts glowing with warm light, made by kids during a fall art project at home. (Image: Ashley Breckel Anderson / Seattle’s Child)

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Kid-friendly fall hikes near Seattle for families

Kathryn Mueller — Tue, 04 Nov 2025 16:00:27 +0000

Washington is beautiful all year round for easy and kid-friendly hikes, but there is something truly magical about fall in the Pacific Northwest. While there are plenty of things our family looks forward to, nothing compares to the magnetic pull we feel toward trailheads in the fall. This time of year, alpine meadows are aglow in vibrant shades of reds, yellows, and oranges. The air is crisp, clear, and refreshing, a nice reprieve from the sweltering summer heat and bothersome bugs that seem to go hand in hand. Fall hikes are the best, but the season is also fleeting, so pack your backpack, throw on a couple of layers, lace up your boots, and go outdoors.

Remember, when hiking in the fall (or any time of year), pack the 10 essentials. As temperatures begin to dip, having layers is important. Be ready for changing weather conditions. The weather can dramatically change at the drop of a hat, especially in the high alpine. Leave no trace and stay on marked trails. Do not feed wildlife.

Looking for golden larches this fall? Don’t miss our full roundup of the best larch hikes in the greater Seattle area.

Fall colors frame the trail to Myrtle Falls at Mount Rainier. (Image: Kathryn Mueller / Seattle’s Child)

The North Cascades: Easy Fall Hikes for Families

The North Cascades National Park is less than a 3-hour drive from Seattle, and it’s well worth the trip. The rugged mountainous landscape, brimming with craggy peaks, glaciers, high alpine lakes, and dense forests, is like stepping into another world. Simply put, it will take your breath away. Even if you just drive through the scenic byway, it’s a trip you won’t forget. Our top easy and kid-friendly fall hikes in the North Cascades are Blue Lake, Cutthroat Lake, and Lake Ann.

All three hikes are gorgeous in the fall, but if I had to pick one to do with my family, I’d pick Blue Lake.

If you have older hikers in your trekking crew, consider tackling Maple Pass. You start from the same trailhead as Lake Ann, but your adventure doesn’t have to stop after you take an offshoot for the lake, nestled in the basin of the mountains. You’ll see hikers climbing the ridge and will quickly want to join in. Backtrack to where you turned off and continue the loop around.

Little adventurers love the calm shores of Cutthroat Lake. (Image: Kathryn Mueller / Seattle’s Child)

Blue Lake — Kid-Friendly Larch Views

Length: 4.4 miles, round-trip
Elevation gain: 1,050 feet
Getting there: The trail is right off Highway 20, about 40 miles past Newhalem, clearly marked for passersby. If you reach the hairpin turn, a popular overlook on Highway 20, you’ve gone too far.
Passes: A Northwest Forest Pass is required
Restroom: There is a toilet at the trailhead

Blue Lake is one of my favorite hikes, not just in the North Cascades but in Washington state. It’s family-friendly, and the views are spectacular. I highly recommend doing this hike in October to catch glimpses of larches — and if you’re looking for more, check out our full guide to the best larch hikes around the Seattle area.

The trail starts out mellow, meandering through the forest before popping hikers out into a large, open meadow with views of towering granite peaks ahead. If you make it to the meadow, you’re nearly halfway to the lake, so push on. Back into the forest, you’ll be granted sweeping peek-a-boo views of the surrounding mountains. Liberty Bell is a popular destination for rock climbers, so you may see individuals on the trail hoping to bag that peak.

Blue Lake sits in the shadows of beautiful mountains, reflecting their splendor in the calm, blue water. Bright yellow larches dot the shorelines surrounding the lake. The payoff is worth the effort to get there. Pack a lunch and enjoy the views from the outcroppings of rocks that sit along the edges of the lake.

Blue Lake shimmers under the peaks of the North Cascades. (Image: Kathryn Mueller / Seattle’s Child)

Mount Rainier: Kid-Friendly Fall Trails

Skyline Trail Loop — Fall Colors at Mount Rainier

Length: 5.5 miles
Type: Moderate
Elevation gain: 1,450 feet
Getting there: The hike begins from Paradise’s parking lot. Mount Rainier National Park reservations are not required this time of year, but it’s a very popular destination, so be prepared for crowds.
Passes: Entrance passes are required and can be purchased online

You have likely seen Mount Rainier in the summer, but fall is arguably my favorite time of the year to visit the beautiful, towering volcano. There are many magnificent trails you can explore in Mount Rainier National Park, but my favorite is the Skyline Trail Loop. The trail leaves from Paradise, quickly gaining elevation as the paved path heads toward Mount Rainier. Eventually, the paved trail gives way to a more rugged gravel path. You will take in expansive mountain views as you continue your hike. Walk through open meadows blanketed in reds and yellows. You’re also likely to see some wildlife along the way. Keep your eyes and ears alert for chattering marmots and scampering ground squirrels. Remember, never feed them (even if they are super cute). When we were there, we saw a black bear and several deer.

The trail is considered moderate, and you will be huffing and puffing straight out of the parking lot. The elevation gain can be exhausting for little legs, but the viewpoints along the trail will make the effort well worth it. You don’t have to complete the loop. Glacier Vista is breathtaking, and you can snap a few photos with Nisqually Glacier and Mount Rainier as a dazzling backdrop.

If you continue, you will enjoy endless mountain views from Panorama Point and more meandering meadows as you descend back to Paradise. Myrtle Falls is another must-stop spot along the trail. Snap a few more photos of the cascading waterfall before the paved trail takes you to the parking lot. You may also begin you hike from Paradise to Myrtle Falls if you’d like a shorter and less strenuous trek.

Panoramic fall views make Skyline Trail a family favorite. (Image: Kathryn Mueller / Seattle’s Child)

Naches Peak Loop — Easy Fall Hike with Rainier Views

This hike is currently closed due to the Wildcat Fire.

Length: 3.2 miles, round-trip
Elevation gain: 600 feet
Getting there:
Restroom: A toilet is located at the trailhead
Passes: Northwest Forest Pass is required

Another popular trail to explore, if Paradise’s crowds scare you away, is Naches Peak Loop. The trailhead leaves out of Tipsoo Lake. I recommend doing this loop hike clockwise, so you can take in the views of Mount Rainier from the best vantage point – walking toward Mount Rainier instead of having it at your back. The trail is easy, with very little elevation gain. It winds you along a hillside through meadows. Take in the stunning mountain views, lakes, and fall foliage. It’s a great trail for kids.

Hiking through a sea of red and gold on Naches Peak Loop. (Image: Kathryn Mueller / Seattle’s Child)

Stevens Pass: Family Hikes with Fall Colors

Barclay Lake — Family-friendly Mountain Lake

Length: 4.4 miles, round-trip
Elevation gain: 500 feet
Getting there: Only about an hour and a half from Seattle, you will take U-2 toward Wenatchee. Turn left onto 635th Place NE. Barclay Lake Trailhead is found about 4.3 miles after turning off U-2.
Restroom: A toilet is located at the trailhead
Passes: Northwest Forest Pass is required

In the shadow of Baring Mountain, a gorgeous alpine lake calls hikers of all abilities to its shores. The views from the lake are unbelievable, with Baring Mountain looming just above. Accessible for families with little explorers, this easy hike delights with mountain views, babbling creeks, forests teeming with fall foliage and expansive meadows. Barclay Lake is a gem, but it is not hidden. It’s a popular trail, so don’t be surprised if you’re not alone.

Big mountain views, easy enough for little hikers — Barclay Lake delivers. (Image: Kathryn Mueller / Seattle’s Child)

Mount Baker: Easy Hikes with Kids

Bagley Lakes Loop — East Lakeside Walk

Sept. 13, 2025 update: Due to a dam removal project, Bagley Lakes trail cannot currently be accessed from the regular trailhead nor can it be hiked as a loop.

Length: 2.2 miles
Elevation gain: Less than 200 feet
Getting there: A large parking lot with a sign for Bagley Lakes and the Wild Goose trails is off the main road leading to Artist Point.
Restroom: A toilet is available at the trailhead
Passes: Northwest Forest Pass is required

You can easily add Artist Ridge — Huntoon Point (1.2-mile round trip) to your Mount Baker day trip. The panoramic views of Mount Baker and Shuksan are unparalleled. Stop by the reflecting pools to capture a photo and take in the mountain views in all directions.

I’m going to be very honest. Bagley Lakes Loop was not the hike we intended to do when we packed up our car and made the nearly 3-hour road trip to Mount Baker on a beautiful Saturday morning, but it turned out okay. I’ve had Chain Lakes Loop on my hiking bucket list for a while. I was determined to check it off the list with my kids in tow, but they had other plans, and that’s okay. Chain Lakes Loop would be a great hike if you have older kids. I’ve heard it can be strenuous, but the reward is big mountain views with lakes along the way.

Instead of tackling the 6.5-mile round-trip Chain Lakes Loop trail, we opted to do a couple of much smaller hikes. We started with Bagley Lakes Loop, an easy 2.2-mile loop. You don’t have to do the loop, though. You can easily do an out-and-back hike as well. There is nearly no elevation gain, which is terrific for little hikers, and the views are spectacular. Follow the trail as it winds along the banks of two pristine alpine lakes. The mountainous views will enchant kids, as will an adorable stone bridge crossing, small waterfalls, and blueberry brambles.

Bagley Lakes Loop is perfect for pint-sized hikers. (Image: Kathryn Mueller / Seattle’s Child)

Wenatchee: Kid-Friendly Larch Hikes

Clara and Marion Lakes — Kid-Friendly Larch Hike

Length: 3.2 miles
Elevation: Just under 1,000 feet
Getting there: The Clara and Marion Lakes trailhead leaves from the parking lot for Mission Ridge Ski Area.
Passes: No pass is required

It can be hard to find kid-friendly larch hikes because these magically elusive trees can only be found high in the alpine. Usually, you must work to gain access to their majesty, but I recently stumbled upon Clara and Marion Lakes, which could possibly be the best larch hike for kids. We’ve rounded up even more stunning family-friendly larch hikes in Washington here.

We love doing this trail in the summer because it’s known for its beautiful wildflowers, but we will be heading back in October to see if we can bask in the golden glow of larches. Clara and Marion Lakes hike takes you through forests and stunning wildflower blooms. You can pack a picnic to enjoy at either of the two quaint lakes. You can also extend your hike if you’re feeling up for it and trek toward a boulder field leading to the sweeping views of the Wenatchee Valley below.

Clara and Marion Lakes trail offers plenty of kid-sized adventures. (Image: Kathryn Mueller / Seattle’s Child)

Snoqualmie: Easy Hikes Near Seattle for Families

Mirror and Cottonwood Lakes — Quick Hike Near Snoqualmie

Length: Around 2.5 miles, round-trip. The first bit of the hike takes hikers along what feels like a rugged, steep road, which adds a little length to your trip.
Elevation gain: 650 feet
Getting there: If you’re coming from Seattle, you will take I-90 east until you reach exit 62. Turn right onto Forest Road 54. Look for Forest Road 5480. Turn right and proceed with caution up a gravel road riddled with potholes.
Passes: A Northwest Forest Pass is required

This easy hike near Snoqualmie Pass is a hidden gem. It’s one of our favorite short hikes to do with our kiddos when we don’t have a lot of time but want to get out of the city. It’s also beautiful throughout fall, with lots of fall foliage to enjoy.

We love a hike with a destination, and this one does just that. Aptly named Mirror Lake, it perfectly reflects the mountains surrounding it. If you’re looking for a quick hike, Mirror and Cottonwood Lakes are good options. Campsites are plentiful along the lake. This hike would be a great introduction for families with tiny tikes who are interested in backcountry excursions.

Mirror Lake lives up to its name on a calm fall day. (Image: Kathryn Mueller / Seattle’s Child)

Easy Kid-Friendly Hikes Closer to Home (Seattle & Eastside)

Tolt-MacDonald Park, Carnation — Suspension Bridge Adventure

Length: 12 miles round trip, Tolt MacDonald Overlook, which is 2.7 miles
Elevation gain: 610 feet
Getting there: Park entrance is at NE 40th St and Highway 203 at the South end of Carnation.
Passes: Day use and overnight parking available on site. Gate locked nightly at dusk from Sept-April.

Perhaps the highlight of this hike is traversing the 500-foot suspension bridge over the Snoqualmie River. Or it may be playing on the shore: throwing rocks, building dams, and floating boats on the smaller streams. Take this easy, kid-friendly fall hike and be sure to spot the fisherman casting their lines out on the river. Tip: Rent a yurt, camp out, or bring your RV to extend your stay. The campground is available April 1-October 31.

Families love the riverside views at Tolt-MacDonald Park. (Image courtesy WA Trails Association/Big Barefoot B)

Carkeek Park, Seattle — Salmon and City Views

Length: 3.5 miles round trip
Elevation gain: 557 ft
Getting there: 950 NW Carkeek Park Rd, Seattle, WA 98177
Passes: No

The best time to visit Carkeek is in November and December when a run of Chum salmon makes its way up Piper’s Creek, which is flanked by a stroller-friendly gravel trail. More rugged back trails offer a tour of the woods. Stop at the playground and the beach for more kid-friendly activities. Choo! Choo! Watch the trains pass by, too.

Note: The Visitor Center is no longer open to the public — playground renovations will begin in Fall 2025. Construction on the overpass bridge will begin in Spring 2027. See updates here.

Gold Creek Pond, Snoqualmie Pass — Stroller-Friendly Fall Hike

Length: 1 mile
Elevation: 45 ft
Getting there: Gold Creek Pond Parking Lot, NF-9080, Snoqualmie Pass, WA 98068
Passes: Northwest Forest Pass

Huckleberry bushes and fiery red maples put on a fine show of color along this stroller-friendly loop. You might spy spawning Kokanee salmon (red, with green heads) if you know where to look. Bring lunch and picnic by the picturesque mountain pond, and then walk in the opposite direction to head home. Gold Creek Pond has different pass requirements when snow is present. Note: The road to the parking lot is riddled with potholes. Beware of your car’s tires.

Editor’s note: This park is set to closed for a restoration project that will last 7-10 years.

A stroller-friendly loop with postcard-perfect views: Gold Creek Pond. (Image courtesy WA Trails Association)

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Best fall Fun Runs and Turkey Trots near Seattle

Seattle's Child Staff — Mon, 03 Nov 2025 02:00:00 +0000

Get your sneakers — or turkey feathers — ready! Fall and winter are packed with fun runs across the Seattle area, from spooky Halloween dashes to Turkey Trots and holiday-themed 5Ks. Whether you’re chasing personal bests or just looking for a festive morning with the kids, these local races make it easy to get moving together.

No matter the distance, it’s helpful to prepare for the run so your kids (and yourself) can cross the finish line. Get started with these easy training tips.

Here’s a look at the best fall fun runs, Turkey Trots, and holiday runs for Seattle-area families this season.

October: Halloween Runs and Fall Kickoffs

Pumpkin Spice Run | Sunday, October 12 | 9:30 a.m. | Seward Park | $18.37 – $63.21 | Register | All ages | Choose from a Pup Cup Kids’ Race, a 1-mile Pumpkin Dash, 5K, or 10K at this fun run in Seward Park. Pick a pumpkin from the mini pumpkin patch and run with it! Enjoy a festive fall finish line celebration, and a Pumpkin Spice Latte (included with your registration).

Tacos & Cervesas 5K | Sunday, October 12 | 12 pm. | 14735 NE 145th Street, Woodinville | $54 | Register | All ages | Welcome to the Tacos & Cervezas 5K – Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month in Style! Kick off with a 5K run or walk, then refuel with mouthwatering tacos and ice-cold cervezas. It’s the perfect blend of health, culture, and celebration—because why not run for tacos? Leashed dogs and strollers are welcome.

I Can and I Will Run | Sunday, October 19 | 9 a.m. | Greenlake Community Center | $27.50-$75.20 | Register | All ages | This run raises money for the Uncompensated Care Fund at Seattle Children’s Hospital. The event offers a 1-mile run for kids under 12, a 200-meter dash for ages 7-12, and a 100-meter dash for kids under 6. These races start after 10 a.m., see website for exact times. Other races offered are a 5K and 10K.

Issaquah School Foundation Monster Mash | Saturday, October 25 | 10 a.m. | Lake Sammamish Boat Launch, Issaquah | $42.50 | Register | All ages |Help us raise a MONSTROUS amount of support for local students on October 25th! ISF Monster Mash 5K is a community-based, family-friendly event that raises funds for programs that serve students attending all 27 ISD schools. You’ll appreciate the flat, paved, out-and-back route whether you’re setting a new 5K PR or enjoying a brisk walk together as a family! Bring your creativity – festive costumes are encouraged!

Monster Dash in West Seattle | Saturday, October 25 | 9:30 a.m. | 8011 Fauntleroy Way SW | 5K $35, Kids’ Monster Dash $20, Just a shirt $20 | Tickets | All ages | Join this costumed fall fun run/walk for families, jogging strollers are welcome. The 12 and under Moster Dash starts at 10:30 a.m. They will also have a family fun zone featuring games, activities, prizes, and a photo booth.

Trick or Treat 5K | Saturday, October 25 | 9 a.m. | Green Lake Community Center, East side | $38, kids free but will not receive medal, bib, etc | Register | All ages | Join us for a spooktacular time at the Trick or Treat 5K ! Lace up your running shoes and get ready for a ghoulishly fun event. This event is perfect for all ages and fitness levels. Leashed dogs welcome, strollers welcome, but the trail is narrow at some points.

Captain Jack’s Treasure Run | Sunday, October 26 | 9:45 – 10:15 a.m. |15670 NE 85th St., Redmond | $10- $60 | Register | All ages | Pre-game Halloween with your best pirate costume while running up a storm on your home turf! Captain Jack’s Treasure Run brings oodles of swash-buckling running fun. Bring a water bottle to this eco-friendly race that doesn’t use disposable cups. Service dogs only.

Run Scared | Sunday, October 26 | 8:15 a.m. | 5900 Lake Washington Blvd S., Seattle | 10K $55, 5K and 2 miler $45, virtual race $40, FREE Kids’ Dash | Register | Before the race, there is a Halloween treasure hunt for the kids. Event registration includes awesome swag and tons of race day fun, including a costume contest, hot apple cider, candy corn tasting bar, free kids dash, photo booth, and more.

Strides For Scholars Halloween Fun Run | Sunday, October 26 | 9:30 a.m. | Luther Burbank Park, Mercer Island | $32.80-$42.70 | Register | All ages | A fantastic way to celebrate Halloween that supports a noble cause—raising scholarships for girls in Kenya. Participants can choose between a thrilling 5K run or a delightful 1K race for kids, both featuring a festive Halloween theme.

November: Turkey Trots and Thanksgiving Runs

Super Hero 5K | Saturday, November 15 | 10 a.m. | Green Lake Park | Kids free (no bib, medal, or swag, just an untimed race) $32- $48.70 | Register | All ages | Unleash your inner hero and run like the wind. Whether you’re faster than a speeding bullet or more of a leisurely jog while sipping coffee type, the event is perfect for all fitness levels. Capes are optional but highly encouraged. Leashed dogs and strollers welcome.

It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s SuperDad! (Image: Danny Griesmer)

Jumping Mouse Turkey Trot | Sat November 22 | 9 a.m. | The Larry Scott Trail, Port Townsend | $15 – $35 | Register | All Ages | Whether you’re running, walking, or trotting with family and friends in the 1-mile kids’ trot or the 5K, every step you take helps support Jumping Mouse Children’s Center and its mission to provide transformative therapy and advocacy for children’s mental health. Dogs and strollers are allowed.

Tacky Turkey Sweater 5 K | Saturday, November 22 | 10 a.m. | $38 adults, $30 Kids’ 5 K under age 14, Kids dash free with no bib or medal, just an untimed race. | Register | All ages | Gobble, Jog, and Strut Your Stuff! Dig out your most outrageous, over-the-top, turkey or holiday-themed sweater (the tackier, the better!) and jog, waddle, or strut your way through a 5K course filled with laughter, fall vibes, and questionable fashion choices. Service dogs only.

Auburn Turkey Trot | Thursday, November 27 | 9 a.m.| Sunset Park, Auburn | Preschoolers are free, Ages 18 and under, $25, ages 19 +, $40 | Register | All ages | Join Auburn on Thanksgiving morning for this family-friendly 5K run/walk! The race will begin and end at the park and follow a nearly flat route through the heart of Lakeland Hills. Thanksgiving costumes are encouraged. Dogs aren’t allowed, but strollers and preschoolers are welcome.

Carnation Turkey Trot | Saturday, November 22 | 9 a.m. | Remlinger Farms | ages 7 and under, $15, free for volunteers, others $38 | Register | All ages | The 5K course will take you all along the country roads and paths on the farm. No cars will be on the course. The Kids Dash is about 100 yards and will be held right before the 5K, so everyone can be there to cheer on the little Gobblers. On the day of the event, please bring non-perishable food items to benefit the Tolt UCC Food Pantry in Carnation.

Holmes Chiropractic Care Turkey Trot | Thursday, November 27 | 8 a.m. | Judson Street, Gig Harbor | 12 and under free, others, $30 | Register | All ages | This family-friendly 5K goes around the harbor and is for all ages and abilities. In the spirit of giving, participants are encouraged to bring two cans of food for donation, supporting local charities such as BackPack for Kids and the FISH Food Bank. No dogs allowed.

Holmes Chiropractic Care Turkey Trot (Image: Dr. Timothy Holmes)

Issaquah Turkey Trot | Thursday, November 27 | 9 a.m. | Downtown Issaquah | Ages 10 and under, $15, ages 11 and up, $35 | Register | All ages | This event is a casual run, jog, or walk over a 3-mile distance. If you don’t want to do an entire 5K, this course offers lots of shortcuts. The race welcomes Thanksgiving costumes and accessories for the costume contest. Leashed dogs, kids on bikes, and strollers are welcome; see rules on website.

Mukilteo Turkey Trot | Thursday, November 27 | 7:30 a.m. | Kamiak High School, Mukilteo | $18.36-$45.30, kids and student pricing available | Register | Get your run in before the big feast! The course will have some gentle rolling hills but will be mostly flat and fast on closed roads within the Harbour Pointe Community in Mukilteo. Strollers are welcome, but no dogs allowed.

Ten Trails Active Club 5K Turkey Trot | Thursday, November 27 | 8:30 a.m. | 23089 SE Fir St., Black Diamond | Free | Register | Registration capped at 200, no race day registration. | All ages | The event is open to folks of all skill levels. There will be prize categories for both walkers and runners, and if you’re lucky, you may even get to bring home one of our Thanksgiving Day desserts that will be raffled off after the event! We will be collecting food donations for a local food bank. Strollers allowed.

(Image courtesy Ten Trails Turkey Trot)

Thanksgiving Day Apple Cup 5K | Thursday, November 27 | 9:30 a.m. | Green Lake Park | $15-$30 | Register | All ages | Celebrate both Thanksgiving AND Apple Cup at the same time! Come run in your Husky or Cougar colors, or if you are not either, sport your own colors or dress up as a turkey! You may also drop off any canned food items if you would like to donate. Dogs not allowed, strollers welcome.

Woodinville Turkey Trot | Thursday, November 27 | 9 a.m. | Wilmot Park, Woodinville | $5-$40 | Register | All ages | A Kids’ Parade will be led by the Woodinville HS Marching band. At our Kids’ Dash, the kids 6 and under will run a short course of about 200 yards on the trail. The morning should get your Thanksgiving Day off to a great start before that turkey dinner.

Bonney Lake Donut Run | Friday, November 28 | 9 a.m. | Fleet Feet Bonney Lake | Free | Register | All ages | This annual event is the perfect way to kick off your Black Friday festivities with family and friends. Enjoy a fun and festive atmosphere as you take part in a scenic 5k run. Best of all, participants can indulge in delicious free donuts and coffee at the finish line!

2025 Seattle Kids’ Marathon | Saturday, November 29 | 9 a.m. | Bell Harbor, Pier 66 | $29.12 | Register | Kids can run a marathon at their own pace by running at home, one mile at a time. Parents or coaches track miles, and on race day, kids run 1.2 miles. After the race, kids get a medal and enjoy post-race goodies with their families, such as a hot chocolate garden, vendors, music, and more. One adult can run with a child, but must have a race bib. No dogs or strollers allowed.

December: Holiday Runs and Festive 5Ks

The Electric Cookie Run | Saturday, December 6 | 5 p.m.| Green Lake | $49-$59 | Register | Ages 12 and under can participate in Kids’ races. For 5K and longer, races ages 6-12 must be accompanied by a parent, and kids under age 6 are not allowed | Justify your holiday cookie consumption in style at the Electric Cookie Run! Dress up in some fun holiday regalia, including some lights! No dogs or strollers allowed.

K9 Candy Cane Run | Sunday, December 7 | 9:15 a.m. | Renton Community Center | 4-17, $30, 17 and up $40 | Register | All ages | Families (with or without) dogs are all invited. If registered before 10 a.m. on Friday, November 21, participants will receive a hooded sweatshirt. Don’t forget about our Annual Pet Food Drive for furry friends in need, help us FILL THE TRUCK! Strollers welcome, read the rules for dogs on the site.

Christmas Rush Fun Run and Walk | Saturday, December 13 | 9:50 a.m. | Hogan Park, Kent | Ages 13 and under free, others, $20-$35 | Registration opens October 10 | All ages | If you don’t want to buy a shirt, you can check out their “garage sale” and purchase a previous year’s shirt for $5. There will be no shirts available on race day. Strollers allowed, but no dogs.

Holiday Fun Run | Saturday, December 20 | 10 a.m. | Magnuson Park | $6-$42 | Register | All ages | It’s time to spread some holiday cheer, and miles! We have our classic 5k, 10k, 15k runs and kids’ dash. After you cross the finish line, you can treat yourself to our hot chocolate bar. Holiday sweaters, hats, and socks are all encouraged. Prizes for best dressed! Strollers and dogs are allowed.

Jingle Bell Run at Wright Park | Wednesday, December 24 | 9 a.m. & 11 a.m. | Wright Park, Tacoma | $30 | Register | Ages 6 and up | Come enjoy a much-deserved break while the kids burn off energy at the return of the Jingle Bell Run. This 3-mile holiday run/walk is a family favorite and a great way to spend quality time outdoors during the busy holiday season. Parks Tacoma is partnering with Tacoma Rescue Mission to collect donations for warm winter items and essential goods. Strollers allowed, but no dogs.

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Top free Halloween events around Seattle (2025 Guide)

Seattle's Child Staff — Fri, 31 Oct 2025 15:02:29 +0000

Have no fear — you don’t need to spend a cent to celebrate Halloween! Across the Seattle area, families can enjoy free Halloween events, from boo-rific carnivals and trunk-or-treats to parades, pumpkin parties, and costume contests. We’ve rounded up dozens of no-cost events where kids can show off their costumes, collect candy, and make spooky-sweet memories — without frightening your wallet.

Want even more Halloween ideas? Check out our Ultimate Guide to Halloween Events and our roundup of Not-So-Scary Halloween Fun for Young Kids.

Free Halloween Events in Seattle

T’Challaween in Beacon Hill | Saturday, Oct. 25 | 1-4 p.m. | Parade Start: S. College St. and 18th Ave. S. | Free | All ages | RSVP recommended | Hop in or out at any point in the parade route at this community-powered event. After the parade, at Jefferson Park, the celebration continues with entertainment, local businesses, games, and activities that highlight the creativity and resilience of the South End.

Thrill the World Seattle 2025 | Saturday, October 25 | 3 p.m. | 1901 1st Ave W. | Free | All ages | Register to dance starting at noon, and the dance performance will take place at precisely 3:00 p.m.Thrill The World is the annual worldwide simultaneous dance to “Thriller.” There will also be a performance by the Star Performance Troupe from the Ballard and Shoreline Academies of Music and Dance, a costume contest, and spectators will be invited to follow along with the Seattle Thrillers to perform while the music is played at a slower speed.

Halloween Costume Crawl for Toddlers | Wednesday, October 29 | 10 a.m.-1 p.m. | Garfield Community Center | Free | Ages 1 month-5 years | Toddlers and preschoolers are encouraged to come to the Garfield Community Center in costumes for a Halloween celebration with play in the Toddler gym, spooky crafts, and yummy snacks.

St. Alphonsus Parish School’s 3rd Annual Trunk-or-Treat | Wednesday, October 29 | 5:30-8 p.m. | St. Alphonsus Parish School | Outdoor events such as Trunk or Treat and red carpet for costumes are free. Indoor inflatables and food trucks have a cost | All ages | Enjoy creative trunk candy stops, a red carpet for costumes, food trucks, beer garden, and an expanded indoor Fun Zone with games and bounce houses ($5 wristband).

Trolloween | Friday, October 31 | 7 p.m. | North 36th Street, Troll Ave N. | Free | An annual celebration of the Fremont Troll’s birthday! The evening begins with live music and a theatrical pageant at the Troll, followed by the Haunt of Fremont—a costumed procession through the neighborhood.

Family Events in West Seattle

Eastside Free Halloween Celebrations

Issaquah Highlands Treats and Tails | Saturday, October 18 | 12-2 p.m. | 2550 NE Park Dr., Issaquah | Free | Ages 3-10 accompanied by an adult | Reserve a time slot for each child who will be trick-or-treating here | Bring a bag and come trick-or-treating. Feel free to bring pets and the whole family. Those without a reserved time slot can wait in the stand-by line.

Monster Mash Halloween Bash | Friday, October 24 | 5:30-8 p.m.| Northwest Arts Center, Bellevue | Free, but registration required | All Ages | This indoor community event is an opportunity for all ages to enjoy a fun and spooky themed trick or treat party! Collect your candy while enjoying theme-based crafts and activities. Our Indoor Play gym for toddlers will also be open!

Zombie Walk | Saturday, October 25 | 1:30-5:30 p.m. | 232 Front Street N., Issaquah | Free | All ages | Meet at the Historic Shell station wearing your zombie make-up and shuffle through downtown Issaquah. Join a dance flash mob, do the zombie crawl, and more. You can sign up for Zombie make-up for a fee.

Tract or Treat at Infinity Farms | Sunday, October 26 | 3-7 p.m. | Infinity Farms, Issaquah | Free | All ages | Join Infinity Farms for their Tract-Or-Treat free family Halloween event. Bring the little ones to the farm to trick or treat from 30 local Eastside businesses. Explore the farm, feed the animals, and enjoy lots of fall activities.

Halloween Factoria | Friday, October 31 | 4:30-6:30 p.m. | Factoria Mall | Free | All ages | Children 12 and under who are dressed in Halloween costumes can trick-or-treat at participating retailers. A DJ will spin the top Halloween-themed pop music, and strolling costumed Halloween characters will add to the event’s fun.

Trick-or-Treat Story Times Redmond Library | Friday, October 31 | 10:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. | Redmond Library | Free | All ages | Put on your Halloween costumes and join us for stories, music, movement, and rhymes that develop your child’s early literacy skills. Then practice your trick-or-treat skills by visiting candy stations throughout the library!

North of Seattle Halloween Happenings

Hamlin Halloween Haunt in Shoreline | Friday, October 17 | 5-8:30 p.m. | 16006 15th Ave NE, Shoreline | Free | All ages | Listen to spooky songs and stories around a campfire, ride the hay wagon, pose in your costume in the photo booth, and play Halloween games. The first half hour is dedicated to activities with reduced sensory stimulation.

Boo Bash | Sunday, October 26 | 2-5 p.m. | Rosehill Community Center, Mukilteo | Free | All ages | Mukilteo Recreation and Cultural Services is organizing a kid-friendly Halloween event that offers a safe and free trick-or-treat experience. The community center will feature vendor booths from various city, county, and state agencies, schools, non-profits, faith-based organizations, community groups, and local

South Seattle & Tacoma-Area Free Events

The Great Pumpkin Night | Friday, October 17 | 5-8 p.m. | SeaTac Community Center | Free | All ages | Get ready for a night of fun, activities for kids, face painters, and bouncy houses. New this year, we will have a costume swap facilitated by Public Works. Costume fun without all the waste — this is a chance to trade in old or outgrown costumes or accessories and pick up a new-to-you one.

Tacoma Halloween Parade and Street Fair | Saturday, October 18 | 4 p.m. | Proctor District, Tacoma | Free | All ages | Get ready for a fright-filled day of fun as Tacoma’s second Halloween Parade comes to life in the Proctor District. This free Halloween community event is a celebration of all things spooky, bringing together local vendors, performers, and Halloween enthusiasts of all ages for a thrilling experience.

Pumpkin Prowl Scavenger Hunt | Monday, October 20-Friday, October 31| Hunt anytime, but note times below to turn in your form and get a prize | 9850 64th Street West, University Place | |12 and under | Free | The Pumpkin Prowl Scavenger Hunt trail stretches between the North Meadow and the Environmental Services Building (ESB). Keep an eye out for hidden pumpkin cutouts along the path. Each cutout has a letter printed on the back. Collect all the letters to reveal a secret phrase! To participate in the scavenger hunt, download or grab the Hunt Form at the Environmental Services Building. Turn in your scavenger hunt card at the front desk in the ESB at Chambers Creek Regional Park between 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.Monday-Friday to receive a themed treat bag. Limit of one prize per person.

Trick or Trees Scavenger Hunt | Monday, October 20-Friday, October 31 | Hunt anytime, but note times below for tuning in your form for a prize | 14422 Meridian E., Puyallup | Free | All ages | The trees along Meridian Habitat Park’s Nature Trail have donned eerie faces for Halloween. Begin your adventure in the Nature Classroom and take a leisurely walk along the Nature Trail, noting the number of faces you discover on your hunt form. You can download a scavenger hunt form or pick one up from the community center at Meridian Habitat Park, which is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Once you’ve completed your hunt, return your form to the community center during regular business hours to receive a themed prize! Please note that there is a limit of one prize per person.

Halloween Spooktacular at the Landing | Friday, October 24 | 5-7 p.m. | Renton Landing | Free | All ages | Join a Halloween Spooktacular event at the Renton Landing. The event will take place in the plaza across from Regal. Families are invited to enjoy trick-or-treating, music, photo booths, and more. Wear costumes!

Halloween Harvest Festival | Saturday, October 25 | 1-5 p.m. | Les Gove Park, Auburn | Free (bring a can of food for admission) | Ages 2-10 | This fun-filled fall afternoon will include games, crafts, inflatables, rides, BOO-seum, food vendors, and a fun Trunk-or-Treat experience around the trail at Les Gove Park.

Lifting Literacy: Trick or Treat and Magic Show at the Maple Valley Library | Saturday, October 25 | 1-3 p.m.| Maple Valley Library | Free | All ages | Be amazed by magician Jeff Evans! Wear your costumes or come as you are and trick-or-treat around the library. Halloween Stories with Librarian Sharon at 1:15. Play games that build your reading skills. Have some physics and engineering fun making a candy catapult.

Fruitland Grange Halloween Party | Sunday, October 26 | 2-4 p.m. | 11102 86th Ave E., Puyallup | Free | All ages | Bring the kids (in costume or not) to enjoy trick or treating, crafts, games, and more. This free Halloween event will take place on the ground floor, upstairs, and outside. There is NO elevator. Registration is required only for children (and their families) with special needs who prefer a quieter, less crowded event.

Hallo-weee Story Time and Costume Parade at Auburn Library | Thursday, October 30 | 10:30-11:30 a.m. | Auburn Library | Free | All ages | Wear your costumes to a short Story Time. Enjoy preschool-friendly rhymes, songs, and books featuring traditional Halloween characters. Stay for a costume parade and trick-or-treating in the library afterwards.

Hallo-weee! Story Time and Costume Parade at Kent Library | Friday, October 31 | 10:30-11:30 a.m. | Kent Library | Free | All ages | Wear your costumes to a short Story Time. Enjoy preschool-friendly rhymes, songs, and books featuring traditional Halloween characters. Stay for a costume parade and trick-or-treating in the library afterwards.

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100+ events for Halloween family-fun around Seattle

Seattle's Child Staff — Wed, 29 Oct 2025 15:02:02 +0000

Get ready for a spook-tacular season! From trick-or-treat trails to zoo bashes and haunted train rides, Seattle families have endless ways to celebrate Halloween — no matter your scare level. We’ve rounded up 100+ Halloween events near Seattle, organized by region to make planning easy. Whether you’re looking for a free trunk-or-treat, a pumpkin plunge, or a full weekend of family fun, this is your go-to guide for Halloween 2025.

Looking for specific vibes? Explore our Not-So-Scary Halloween Fun for Young Kids and Free Halloween Events for Families roundups for even more ideas.

Seattle: Family Fun this Halloween

Big Pumpkin Bash at Bitter Lake Community Center | Saturday, October 18 | 6-8 p.m. | Bitter Lake Community Center, Seattle | $10 per bracelet, payable in cash or check | All ages | Carnival games, face painting, refreshments, and the always popular cake walk at this Big Pumpkin Bash at Bitter Lake Community Center! Bring a can of food to donate.

Seattle Children’s Museum Fall Fest, Eerie Encounters | Saturday, October 18 |10 a.m. to 5 p.m. | Seattle Children’s Museum | Under age 1, free. Ages 1 and up, nonmembers $20, members $10 | Tickets | All ages | Wear kid-friendly costumes if you wish to participate in activities such as a sensory corn pit, ghostly stomp rockets, make Goblin slime, decorate pumpkins, and more. Live “spooky tunes” from Mr. Bri Guy + Brian the Drummer will keep the energy going, while Sage’s Coffee Co. serves cozy seasonal sips for parents.

Halloween at the Heights Bash | Friday, October 24 | 6-8:30 p.m. | 2101 NW 77th St, Seattle | $12 | All ages | Tickets | Join us for a fright fest of activities, carnival games, music, challenges, and more. Dress in Costume and remember to bring a bag for your goodies. Food available for sale. Volunteers are needed for the event before, during, and after. Proceeds from the wristband tickets support LHCC Scholarships.

Montlake Fall Fest | Friday, October 24 | 5-7:30 p.m. | Montlake Community Center | $8/wristband with early registration or $10/wristband at the door | Ages 2-12 | Tickets | Celebrate the season at our Montlake Fall Fest, an evening of fun for the whole family! Purchase a wristband which includes unlimited carnival games, a seasonal craft project, and one ticket for the cupcake walk. Enjoy additional activities like face painting, a tot bounce house/toy area, and light refreshments. Costumes are welcome, so come dressed in your autumn best and join the celebration!

Our Lady of Guadelupe Halloween Carnival | Saturday, October 25 | 3-6 p.m. | 3401 SW Myrtle St. | Cost TBD | All ages | Enjoy outdoor thrills with inflatables, Trunk or Treat row, Food Trucks, and our Oktoberfest Tent (for our 21+ guests). Inside, join the fun with our cake walk, face painting, photo ops, more games, and jam out to our wicked tunes.

Pumpkin Carving | Saturday, October 25 | 4:30-6:30 p.m. | Northgate Community Center | $5 | All ages | Tickets | Kick off the Halloween season with a family pumpkin carving and decorating night! We’ll have pumpkins of all sizes, along with safe carving tools and paints, to create your spooky or funky jack-o’-lantern! *One pumpkin per family. Pumpkin choices are first-come, first-served. Supplies are limited.

T’Challaween in Beacon Hill | Saturday, Oct. 25 | 1-4 p.m. | Parade Start: S. College St. and 18th Ave. S. | Free | All ages | RSVP | Hop in or out at any point in the parade route at this community-powered event. After the parade, at Jefferson Park, the celebration continues with entertainment, local businesses, games, and activities that highlight the creativity and resilience of the South End.

Woodland Park Zoo: Pumpkin Bash | October 25 & 26 | 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. | Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle | Free with zoo admission, one child under 12 admitted per paid adult | All ages | Tickets | Trick-or-treat throughout the zoo and join in the special mascot-led costume parade! The Boo-mazium will be featuring a variety of engaging activities tailored for the youngest visitors. This year, don’t miss out on live pumpkin carving demonstrations. Costumes encouraged!

Halloween Skate and Pumpkin Curling at Kraken Community Iceplex | Sunday, October 26 | Pumpkin Curling from 3:45-4:15 p.m., Halloween Skate from 4:15-6 p.m. | 10601 5th Ave, Seattle | Cost $15 | Register here | Ages 4 and up | Our annual Halloween festivities are rising from the grave! Pumpkin curling is sliding back, and our not-so-spooky skate will feature Halloween-themed music suitable for the whole family. Come dressed up in costume, and you could win our costume contest grand prize!

Pumpkin curling turns Halloween scary into Halloween cool at Kraken Community Iceplex. (Image courtesy Kraken Community Iceplex)

Run Scared | Sunday, October 26 | 8:15 a.m. | 5900 Lake Washington Blvd S., Seattle | 10K $55, 5K and 2 miler $45, virtual race $40, FREE Kids’ Dash | Register | Before the race, there is a Halloween treasure hunt for the kids. Event registration includes awesome swag and tons of race-day fun, including a costume contest, hot apple cider, a candy corn tasting bar, a free kids’ dash, a photo booth, and more.

Halloween Costume Crawl for Toddlers | Monday, October 29 | 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. | Garfield Community Center | Free | Ages 1 month-5 years | Toddlers and preschoolers are encouraged to come to the Garfield Community Center in costumes for a Halloween celebration with play in the Toddler gym, spooky crafts, and yummy snacks.

St. Alphonsus Parish School’s 3rd Annual Trunk-or-Treat | Wednesday, October 29 | 5:30-8 p.m. | St. Alphonsus Parish School | Outdoor events such as Trunk or Treat and red carpet for costumes are free. Indoor inflatables and food trucks have a cost | All ages| Enjoy creative trunk candy stops, a red carpet for costumes, food trucks, beer garden, and an expanded indoor Fun Zone with games and bounce houses ($5 wristband).

Creepy Carnival at Garfield Community Center | Friday, October 31 | 5-7 p.m. | Garfield Community Center, Seattle | Free | Call to register 206-684-5177 | Ages 1-13 | Get in the Halloween spirit at the Garfield Community Center Creepy Carnival! Enjoy music, carnival games, face painting, and lots of treats. Wear a costume and join this fun event.

Trolloween | Friday, October 31 | 7 p.m. | North 36th Street, Troll Ave N., Fremont | Free | An annual celebration of the Fremont Troll’s birthday! The evening begins with live music and a theatrical pageant at the Troll, followed by the Haunt of Fremont—a costumed procession through the neighborhood.

Eastside Fall & Halloween Happenings

Northwest Railway Museum Halloween Train Excursions | October 11-12, 18-19, 25-26 | 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m. | Northwest Railway Museum, North Bend | $16-$32, under age two free | Tickets | All ages | Trick or Treat Yourself to the Halloween Train! It’s that time of year to hop aboard the Museum’s Halloween Train. Pull on those costumes and enjoy a fall-decorated ride through the picturesque upper Snoqualmie Valley, complete with a small prize. Seasonal activities and visit the Train Shed Exhibit Hall. Costumes are encouraged, and all children arriving in costume will receive a small prize!

Fright Town Eastside at the Red Barn Farm | October 17-26 weekly, Friday-Sunday, with select Wednesdays and Thursdays | 5-9 p.m. | 5703 208th Ave NE, Redmond | Cost $5-$15 | Tickets | All ages | Pick pumpkins, buy some fresh-pressed cider, and visit their haunt at the historic Red Barn Farm! They offer a Rated G early-hours experience that is family-friendly and fun for all ages, and a PG-13 experience later at night. Check the website for those times.

Monster Mash Halloween Bash | Friday, October 24 | 5:30-8 p.m.| 9825 NE 24th St., Bellevue | Free | All Ages |This indoor community event is an opportunity for all ages to enjoy a fun and spooky themed trick or treat party! Collect your candy while enjoying theme-based crafts and activities. Our Indoor Play gym for toddlers will also be open.

Boo at the Barn, Psychopath | Saturday, October 25 | 6-9 p.m. | 1730 10th Ave NW, Issaquah | $12-$15 | All ages | Tickets | Dare to enter the woods? The Psycho Path returns for one night only, an eerie, winding haunted trail filled with shadows, screams, and surprises lurking in the dark. Wander (if you’re brave enough) through the haunted trail, then stick around for carnival games, food trucks, magical vendors, fire pits, and gooey s’mores to calm your nerves. Costumes are welcome and encouraged.

The Great Si View Spooktacular | Saturday, October 25 | 12-2:45 p.m.| 400 SE Orchard Dr. N., North Bend | Free-$18 | Tickets | All ages | Enjoy carnival games, pumpkin decorating, petting zoo, and other fun and engaging seasonal activities! Pre-registration required. Please register each child (regardless of age) for wristband access in one of the two sessions that best fit your schedule. Come dressed in costumes and plan for the weather, as some outside activities are planned.

Halloween on the Hill | Saturday, October 25 | 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. | South Bellevue Community Center, Bellevue | $0-$25 | Register here | All ages | Halloween on the Hill is an annual event that consists of a series of Halloween-themed activities for all ages. The community will participate in various activities throughout the day, including the Great SBCC Pumpkin Race, Carnival with games and inflatable bouncers, Magic Show, and much more.

Howl ‘O Ween at Cougar Mountain Zoo | Saturday, October 25 | 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. | Cougar Mountain Zoo, Issaquah | $15-$18, free admission for kids 2-12 in costume | Tickets | All ages | Halloween-themed activities include a costume contest, a pumpkin scavenger hunt, trick-or-treating around the zoo, and Halloween-themed enrichment for the animals.

Samena Spooktacular | Saturday, October 25 | 3-5 p.m. | 15231 Lake Hills Blvd., Bellevue | $15+ | Ages 3-13 | The evening begins with a Spooktacular favorite, the Haunted Trail! The trail will lead you around Samena’s backyard, where you’ll find candy, games, and Halloween activities. Then gather for the costume contest. After the Haunted Trail happens, older kids who can swim will head to the indoor pool for the Spooky Swim! While the older kids are swimming, preschoolers will sing songs, read stories, and make their own ‘witches brew’ at the Ghostly Gathering.

Trick or Treat with the Farm Animals at Kelsey Creek Farm | Saturday, October 25 | 1-3 p.m. | 410 130th Pl SE, Bellevue | $30 resident, $36 nonresident | Tickets | Ages 2-10 | Go trick-or-treating with the farm animals and see what costumes they’re wearing. You’ll also get to decorate a trick-or-treat bag, make Halloween crafts, and play pumpkin bowling. Come dressed for the weather.

Tract or Treat at Infinity Farms | Saturday, October 25 | 2-6 p.m. | 16523 Issaquah-Hobart Road Southeast, Issaquah | Cost Free | All ages | Join Infinity Farms for their Tract-Or-Treat free family event. Bring the little ones to the farm to trick or treat from 30 local Eastside businesses. Explore the farm, feed the animals, and enjoy lots of fall activities.

Halloween Factoria | Friday, October 31 | 4:30-6:30 p.m. | 4053 Factoria Mall SE, Bellevue | Free | All ages | Children 12 and under who are dressed in Halloween costumes can trick-or-treat at participating retailers. A DJ will spin the top Halloween-themed pop music, and strolling costumed Halloween characters will add to the event’s fun.

Trick-or-Treat Story Times | Friday, October 31 |10:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. | Redmond Library | Free | All ages | Put on your Halloween costumes and join us for stories, music, movement, and rhymes that develop your child’s early literacy skills. Then practice your trick-or-treat skills by visiting candy stations throughout the library!

(Image courtesy KidsQuest Children’s Museum)

North of Seattle: Trick-or-Treat Trails & More

Thomas Family Farm at Night | October 3 – November 1 | Time varies | 9010 Marsh Road, Snohomish | $35 | Ages 12 and up | Take part in the haunted house, corn maze at night, or zombie paintball, for families with older children who want to add a little more fright to Halloween. Visit the website for more information on pricing and hours of operation.

Haunted Harbor | Friday, October 24 | 4-7 p.m. | Free | All ages | Hotel Indigo, Everett | Rain or shine, guests will gather in and around the Port’s Pacific Rim Plaza, near Hotel Indigo, for a night of fright, including “Troll or Treat” (trick or treating at the boats along Guest Dock 5), games, crafts, and more.

Spooktacular at Imagine Children’s Museum | October 25 | 5-7:30 p.m. | Imagine Children’s Museum, Everett | Nonmembers $22, free for members | Tickets | All ages | Join us for a not-too-spooky night of Halloween fun at Imagine Children’s Museum! Families can explore hands-on activities, science shows, carnival games, and a costume parade in a festive evening designed for giggles, creativity, and community.

Boo Bash | Sunday, October 26 | 2-5 p.m. | 304 Lincoln Avenue, Mukilteo | Free | All ages | Mukilteo Recreation and Cultural Services is organizing a kid-friendly event that offers a safe and free trick-or-treat experience. The community center will feature vendor booths from various city, county, and state agencies, schools, non-profits, faith-based organizations, community groups, and local businesses.

Zombie Walk in Snohomish | Thursday, October 30 | 4-8 p.m. | 105 Cedar Ave. Snohomish | Free | All ages | The event will feature the Snohomish Zombie Walk merchandise booth, face painting to help you transform into the ghoul of your choice, music and entertainment, vendors, and more. There will be the best zombie award (with a fantastic trophy as a prize!). The zombie horde will walk through the sidewalks of 1st St. in the historic downtown.

South of Seattle: Carnivals, Parades & Family Fun

FrightVille | October 3-November 2, Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays| Times vary | Wild Waves, Federal Way | $40-$62 | Tickets | Ages 12 and over, must be accompanied by an adult if under 18.| Prepare yourself for heart-pounding thrills, bone-chilling scares, and a Halloween experience like no other! Beware! As the clock strikes 6, the park transforms, and the monsters emerge from their haunted lairs, creeping through the darkness in search of souls to prey upon.

The Haunted Escape Room Experience at Maeve (Formerly Seattle Chocolate Factory )| 1180 Andover Park West, Tukwila | Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays October 2 -25, 2025 | Time varies | $37.75 | Tickets | Ages 10 and up | Guided by the patron saint of our Moon Rocks flavor, Greg Glitter, you’ll journey to a haunted planet in search of the legendary cosmic cacao.

Northwest Trek Pumpkin Chomp & Stomp | October 4 & 5 | 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. | Northwest Trek, Eatonville | $17-$25, 2 and under free | Tickets | All ages | Watch the animals chomp, stomp, and roll all day. Slide and climb at the Kids’ Trek playground, and take a Free-Roaming Area premier tour to spot animals. Do come in costume – but adults, leave the scary masks and face paint at home.

The Great Pumpkin Night at Seatac Community Center | Friday, October 17th | 5-8:00 p.m.| Seatac Community Center | Free | All ages | Activities for kids, face painters, and bouncy houses. The Puget Sound Regional Fire Authority, along with the SeaTac Police, will be in attendance. Please stop by and say hello to the friendly first responders. We’ll end the night with a free movie & popcorn starting at 7:30 PM; Elio (2025). Come dressed in your favorite costume, and new this year, there will be a costume swap.

All Hallow’s Eve at Lakewold Gardens | October 18-19 & 25-26 | 6-9 p.m. | 12317 Gravelly Lake Dr. SW, Lakewood | $10+, five and under free. | Tickets | All ages | Search the shadowy garden for monsters in a spooky scavenger hunt… but be alert! The mysterious Gravelly Lake Monster is lurking in the darkness. Inside the haunted halls of Wagner House, take refuge with warm treats, create crafts, and test your nerves with spine-chilling music, movies, stories, and more.

Pumpkin Plunge at the Federal Way Pool | Saturday, October 18 | 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. | Federal Way Pool | Youth $10, Adult $12 | Tickets | Ages all, but children under eight must be accompanied by an adult in the water. | Pick pumpkins in a pool instead of a field! Swim around with your pumpkins and then take one home after choosing a floating pumpkin from the pool.

Tacoma Halloween Parade and Street Fair | Saturday, October 18 | 4 p.m. | Proctor District, Tacoma | Free | All ages | Get ready for a fright-filled day of fun as Tacoma’s second Halloween Parade comes to life in the Proctor District. This free community event is a celebration of all things spooky, bringing together local vendors, performers, and Halloween enthusiasts of all ages for a thrilling experience.

Zoo Boo at Point Defiance | October 18 & 19 | 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. | Point Defiance Zoo, Tacoma | $17-$30, 2 and under free | Tickets | All ages | Treats and craft stations for kids and pumpkins and other enrichments for walruses, polar bears, sting rays, and other animals. Watch underwater pumpkin carving, wear a costume, join in a costume parade, play games, and hop around at a dance party.

Trail of Tricks Scavenger Hunt | October 20-31 | Hunt anytime, but note the times below to turn in your form and get a prize. | 9850 64th Street West, University Place | |12 and under | Free | The Pumpkin Prowl Scavenger Hunt trail stretches between the North Meadow and the Environmental Services Building (ESB). Keep an eye out for hidden pumpkin cutouts along the path. Each cutout has a letter printed on the back. Collect all the letters to reveal a secret phrase! To participate in the scavenger hunt, download or grab the Hunt Form at the Environmental Services Building. Turn in your scavenger hunt card at the front desk in the ESB at Chambers Creek Regional Park between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday to receive a themed treat bag—limit of one prize per person.

Trick or Trees Scavenger Hunt | October 20-31 | Hunt anytime, but note times below for tuning in your form for a prize| 14422 Meridian E., Puyallup | Free | All ages | The trees along Meridian Habitat Park’s Nature Trail have donned eerie faces for Halloween. Begin your adventure in the Nature Classroom and take a leisurely walk along the Nature Trail, noting the number of faces you discover on your hunt form. You can download a scavenger hunt form or pick one up from the community center at Meridian Habitat Park, which is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM. Once you’ve completed your hunt, return your form to the community center during regular business hours to receive a themed prize! Please note that there is a limit of one prize per person.

Halloween Spooktacular at the Landing | Friday, October 24 | 5-7 p.m. | 828 N 10th Pl, Renton | Free | All ages | Join a Halloween Spooktacular event at the Renton Landing. The event will take place in the plaza across from Regal. Families are invited to enjoy trick-or-treating, music, photo booths, and more. Wear costumes!

Truck or Treat Renton Community Center | Friday, October 24 | 5-7:30 p.m. | Renton Community Center | $12-$14 | Tickets | All ages | Two events: Truck or Treat: Sensory Friendly Stroll – 5 to 5:45 p.m., Perfect for younger kids and sensory-sensitive participants. Spooktacular WALK THRU – 6:15 – 7:30 p.m. Wander through the enchanted Halloween course filled with thrilling decorations, playful ghosts, and delightful treats at every corner.

Boo Bash at the Hands On Children’s Museum | October 25-31 | 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. | Hands On Children’s Museum, Olympia | $18 | Tickets | All ages | Celebrate fall with a bounty of family-friendly thrills and spooky treats at Boo Bash, Oct. 25-31. Enjoy Halloween-inspired delights without the fright. Activities vary depending on the day of the week. See the online event calendar for dates and times. Online reservations recommended. Save $1 per ticket when you buy them online.

Federal Way Tricks and Treats | Saturday, October 25 | 3-5:30 p.m. | 876 S 333rd St, Federal Way | $6+ | All ages | Get ready for a spooktacular Halloween experience at the Federal Way Community Center’s “Tricks n’ Treats” event! Join an evening filled with ghoulish delights, fun games, sweet treats, and unforgettable memories. All children must be accompanied by an adult/guardian. Costumes are encouraged for all attendees!

Halloween Harvest Festival | Saturday, October 25 | 1-5 p.m. | Les Gove Park, Auburn | Free (Bring a can of food for admission) | Ages 2-10 | This fun-filled fall afternoon will include games, crafts, inflatables, rides, BOO-seum, food vendors, and a fun Trunk-or-Treat experience around the trail at Les Gove Park.

Lifting Literacy: Trick or Treat and Magic Show at the Maple Valley Library | Saturday, October 25 | 1-3 p.m. | Maple Valley Library | Free | All ages | Drop in any time between 1-3:00 p.m. Be amazed by magician Jeff Evans! Wear your costumes or come as you are. Trick or treat around the library. Halloween Stories with Librarian Sharon at 1:15. Play games that build your reading skills. Have some physics and engineering fun making a candy catapult.

Fruitland Grange Halloween Party | Sunday, October 26 | 2-4 p.m. | 11102 86th Ave E., Puyallup | Free | All ages | Bring the kids (in costume or not) to enjoy trick or treating, crafts, games, and more. This event will take place on the ground floor, upstairs, and outside. There is NO elevator. Registration is required only for children (and their families) with special needs who prefer a quieter, less crowded event.

Museum of Fright | Sunday, October 26 | 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. | The Museum of Flight Tukwila | Free admission to kids under 17 in costume (see costume policy on website) and activities are included in tickets or membership | All ages | Tickets | Across the Museum galleries, you’ll find Halloween-themed games and activities to spark imagination, innovation, and get in the Halloween spirit. This will be a frightful extravaganza!

Harvest Fest Family Fun and Boo Bash Teen Late Night | Friday, October 31 | 4-6 p.m. | People’s Community Center, Tacoma | Free, no registration required | Ages: All | Bring the family for safe Halloween-themed holiday fun! Trunk or Treat, art projects and a bouncy house. Costumes encouraged but not required. The Teen Late Night event that follows from 7-11 p.m. is Halloween themed and also free.

West Seattle: Halloween Highlights

Further Afield: Spooky Getaways & Fall Adventures

Annual Squash Hunt at Bloedel Reserve | October 1-31, Tuesday-Sunday,10 a.m.- to 5 p.m. | Bloedel Reserve, Bainbridge Island | $9- $26, under 4 free | Tickets | All ages | Search for decorative squash tucked throughout the gardens. Create nature rubbings, check out the Sheep Sheds, play games, and more.

Scarywood at Silverwood | October 3-November 2 | Times vary | 27843 US-95, Athol, ID | $49-$72 | Tickets | Ages 13 and up | This theme park near Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, a popular destination for Seattle families, transforms into “the nightmare you’ll never forget.” (Yikes!) Highlights: Five haunted attractions, nine “scare zones,” roaming monsters, and thrill rides in the dark. Tickets must be purchased in advance.

Halloweekend at Seabrook | October 24-26 | Starts 3 p.m., Friday | Town Hall and Crescent Hall at Seabrook | Most activities are free, some require a fee | All ages | Head to Seabrook, a walkable beach town adorned with pumpkins and hay bales this time of year, to have a magical, spooky weekend! The whole family can enjoy Halloween celebrations and traditional falltime fun on the Washington coast, featuring family trick-or-treating, a costume parade, a pet and human costume contest, a magic show, and more.

Looking for more fall fun? Check out our favorite pumpkin patches near Seattle or plan a weekend adventure to go apple picking with the kids.

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Not-So-Scary Halloween Fun: Family-friendly events for kids around Seattle

Alison Behnke — Sun, 26 Oct 2025 15:00:00 +0000

If your little ones love costumes and candy but aren’t fans of the spooky stuff, there’s still plenty of Halloween magic to enjoy. All across the Seattle area, families can find fun runs, pumpkin swims, parades, scavenger hunts, and animal adventures that bring the spirit of the season — without the scares. Here are some of our favorite Halloween activities for kids and family-friendly Halloween events happening around town this year.

Looking for even more? Check out our Ultimate Guide to Seattle-Area Halloween Events and Free Halloween Events for Families for additional ways to celebrate with Halloween acticities for kids all month long.

Active Halloween Fun: Swim, Run, and Skate!

Pumpkin Plunge at the Federal Way Pool | Saturday, October 18 |10 a.m.- 5 p.m.| 876 S 333rd St, Federal Way | Youth $10, Adult $12 | All ages | Pick pumpkins in a pool instead of a field! Swim around with your pumpkins and then take one home after choosing a floating pumpkin from the pool. Children under the age of 8 must be accompanied by an adult in the water.

West Seattle Monster Dash | Saturday, October 25 | 9:30 a.m. | 8011 Fauntleroy Way SW Seattle | 5K $35, Kids’ Monster Dash $20, Just a shirt $20 | All ages | Join this costumed fall fun run/walk for families; jogging strollers are welcome. The 12 and under Monster Dash starts at 10:30 a.m. They will also have Halloween activities for kids like a family fun zone featuring games, activities, prizes, and a photo booth.

Run Scared | Sunday, October 26 | 8:15 a.m. | 5900 Lake Washington Blvd S. | 10K $55, 5K and two miler $45, virtual race $40, FREE Kids’ Dash | Before the race, there is a Halloween treasure hunt for the kids. Event registration includes awesome swag and tons of race-day fun, including a costume contest, hot apple cider, a candy corn tasting bar, a free kids’ dash, a photo booth, and more.

Halloween Skate and Pumpkin Curling at Kraken Community Iceplex | Sunday, October 26 | Pumpkin Curling from 3:45-4:15 p.m., Halloween Skate from 4:15-6 p.m. | 10601 5th Ave | Cost $15 | Ages 4 and up| The annual Halloween festivities are rising from the grave! Pumpkin curling is sliding back, and the not-so-spooky skate will feature Halloween-themed music suitable for the whole family. Come dressed up in costume, and you could win our costume contest grand prize!

Farm & Zoo Halloween Events for Families

Northwest Trek Pumpkin Chomp & Stomp | October 4 & 5 | 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. | 11610 Trek Dr E., Eatonville | Adults $25, Seniors $23, youth $17, 2 and under free | All ages | Watch the animals chomp, stomp, and roll all day. Slide and climb at the Kids’ Trek playground, and take a Free-Roaming Area premier tour to spot animals. Do come in costume – but adults, leave the scary masks and face paint at home.

Zoo Boo at Point Defiance | October 18 & 19 | 9 a.m.-3 p.m. | 5400 N Pearl St, Tacoma | $17-$30 per person, 2 and under free | All ages | Treats and craft stations for kids and pumpkins and other enrichments for walruses, polar bears, sting rays, and other animals. Watch underwater pumpkin carving, wear a costume, join in a costume parade, play games and hop around at a dance party.

Trick or Treat with the Farm Animals at Kelsey Creek Farm | Saturday, October 25 | 1-3 p.m.| 410 130th Pl SE, Bellevue | $30 resident, $36 nonresident | Ages 2-10 | Go trick-or-treating with the farm animals and see what costumes they’re wearing. You’ll also get to participate in Halloween activities for kids like decorating a trick-or-treat bag, making Halloween crafts, and playing pumpkin bowling. Come dressed for the weather.

Woodland Park Zoo: Pumpkin Bash | October 25 & 26 | 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. | 1000 N 50th St. | Free with zoo admission, one child under 12 admitted per paid adult | All ages | Trick-or-treat throughout the zoo and join in the special mascot-led costume parade! The Boo-mazium will be featuring a variety of engaging activities tailored for the youngest visitors. This year, don’t miss out on live pumpkin carving demonstrations. Costumes encouraged!

Tract or Treat at Infinity Farms | Sunday, October 26 | 3-7 p.m. | 16523 Issaquah-Hobart Road Southeast, Issaquah | Cost Free | All ages | Join Infinity Farms for their Tract-Or-Treat free family event. Bring the little ones to the farm to trick or treat from 30 local Eastside businesses. Explore the farm, feed the animals, and enjoy lots of fall activities.

Halloween Fun at Community Centers and Parks

Volunteer Park Halloween Pet Parade | Sunday, October 5 | 10 a.m.-2 p.m. (register for costume contest between 11 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.) | 1247 15th Avenue E. | Free | All ages | This delightful FREE parade and costume competition will feature pets in costumes, crafts, food trucks, prizes, and vendor booths.

Spooky Sing-a-Long with Crowdsource Choir | Saturday, October 11 | 7:00 p.m. | 1119 8th Ave. (entrance off Seneca St.) | $25 – $50 sliding scale | All ages | Sing a spooky-season setlist including Michael Jackson’s “Thriller”, “I Put a Spell on You” from “Hocus Pocus”, and Metallica’s “Enter Sandman”. Seasonal, a little haunting, and full of energy — it’s the perfect way to celebrate fall together. Feel free to dress up for Halloween.

Seattle Children’s Museum Fall Fest, Eerie Encounters | Saturday, October 18 | 10 a.m.-5 p.m. | 305 Harrison St. | Under age 1, free. Ages 1 and up, nonmembers $20, members $10 | All ages | Wear kid-friendly costumes if you wish to participate in Halloween activities for kids such as a sensory corn pit, ghostly stomp rockets, make Goblin slime, decorate pumpkins, and more. Live “spooky tunes” from Mr. Bri Guy + Brian the Drummer will keep the energy going, while Sage’s Coffee Co. serves cozy seasonal sips for parents.

Big Pumpkin Bash at Bitter Lake Community Center | Saturday, October 18 | 6- 8 p.m. | 13035 Linden Ave N. | $10 per bracelet, payable in cash or check | All ages | Halloween activities for kids like carnival games, face painting, refreshments, and the always popular cake walk at this Big Pumpkin Bash at Bitter Lake Community Center! Bring a can of food to donate.

Pumpkin Prowl Scavenger Hunt | October 20-31 | Hunt anytime, but note times below to turn in your form and get a prize | 9850 64th Street West, University Place | |12 and under | Free | The Pumpkin Prowl Scavenger Hunt trail stretches between the North Meadow and the Environmental Services Building (ESB). Keep an eye out for hidden pumpkin cutouts along the path. Each cutout has a letter printed on the back. Collect all the letters to reveal a secret phrase! To participate in the scavenger hunt, download or grab the Hunt Form at the Environmental Services Building. Turn in your scavenger hunt card at the front desk in the ESB at Chambers Creek Regional Park between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday to receive a themed treat bag. Limit of one prize per person.

Trick or Trees Scavenger Hunt | October 20-31 | Hunt anytime, but note times below for tuning in your form for a prize | 14422 Meridian E., Puyallup | Free | All ages | The trees along Meridian Habitat Park’s Nature Trail have donned eerie faces for Halloween. Begin your adventure in the Nature Classroom and take a leisurely walk along the Nature Trail, noting the number of faces you discover on your hunt form. You can download a scavenger hunt form or pick one up from the community center at Meridian Habitat Park, available Monday through Friday, from 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM. Once you’ve completed your hunt, return your form to the community center during regular business hours to receive a themed prize! Please note that there is a limit of one prize per person.

Montlake Fall Fest | Friday, October 24 | 5.-7:30 p.m. | 1618 E Calhoun St. | $8/wristband and with early registration or $10/wristband at the door | Ages 2-12 | Celebrate the season at Montlake Fall Fest — an evening of fun for the whole family! Purchase a wristband that includes unlimited carnival games, a seasonal craft project, and one ticket for the cupcake walk. Enjoy additional activities like face painting, a tot bounce house/toy area, and light refreshments. Costumes are welcome, so come dressed in your autumn best and join the celebration!

Halloween at the Heights Bash | Friday, October 24 | 6- 8:30 p.m. | 2101 NW 77th St. | $12 | All ages | Join us for a fright fest of activities, carnival games, music, challenges, and more. Dress in costume and remember to bring a bag for your goodies. Food available for sale. Volunteers are needed for before, during, and after the event. Proceeds from the wristband tickets support LHCC Scholarships.

Pumpkin Carving at Northgate Community Center | Saturday, October 25 | 4:30-6:30 p.m. | 10510 5th Ave. NE | $5 | All ages | Kick off the Halloween season with a family pumpkin carving and decorating night! We’ll have pumpkins of all sizes with safe carving tools and paints to create your spooky or funky jack-o-lantern! *One pumpkin per family. Pumpkin choices are first-come, first-served. Supplies are limited.

Our Lady of Guadelupe Halloween Carnival | October 25 | 3-6 p.m. | 3401 SW Myrtle St. | All ages | Enjoy outdoor thrills with inflatables, Trunk or Treat row, Food Trucks, and the Oktoberfest Tent (for 21+ guests). Inside, join the fun with a cake walk, face painting, photo ops, more games, and jam out to wicked tunes.

Halloween Costume Crawl for Toddlers at Garfield Community Center | Wednesday, October 29 | 10 a.m.-1 p.m. | 2323 E Cherry St. | Free | Ages: 1 month – 5 years | Toddlers and preschoolers are encouraged to come to the Garfield Community Center in costumes for a Halloween celebration with play in the Toddler gym, spooky crafts, and yummy snacks.

Creepy Carnival at Garfield Community Center | Friday, October 31 | 5 -7 p.m. | 2323 E. Cherry St. | Free | Ages 1-13 | Get in the Halloween spirit at the Garfield Community Center Creepy Carnival! Enjoy Halloween activities for kids like music, carnival games, face painting, and lots of treats. Wear a costume and join this fun event.

Spooky (But Sweet) Halloween Storytimes

Lifting Literacy: Trick or Treat and Magic Show at the Maple Valley Library | Saturday, October 25 | 1-3 p.m. | 21844 SE 248th Street, Maple Valley | Free | All ages | Be amazed by magician Jeff Evans! Wear your costumes or come as you are. Trick or treat around the library. Halloween Stories with Librarian Sharon at 1:15. Play games that build your reading skills. Have some physics and engineering fun making a candy catapult.

Trick-or-Treat Story Times Redmond Library | Friday, October 31 | 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. | 15990 NE 85th Street, Redmond | Free | All ages | Put on your Halloween costumes and join us for stories, music, movement, and rhymes that develop your child’s early literacy skills. Then practice your trick-or-treat skills by visiting candy stations throughout the library!

Hallo-weee! Story Time and Costume Parade at Kent Library | Friday, October 31 | 10:30-11:30 a.m. | 212 2nd Avenue N., Kent | Free | All ages | Wear your costumes to a short Story Time. Halloween activities for kids include preschool-friendly rhymes, songs, and books featuring traditional Halloween characters. Stay for a costume parade and trick-or-treating in the library afterwards.

More Not-So-Scary Halloween Events

Annual Squash Hunt at Bloedel Reserve | October 1-31, Tuesday–Sunday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | 7571 NE Dolphin Drive, Bainbridge Island | Cost: Adult $26, ages 13-18 $14, ages 5-12 $9, under 4 free | Tickets | All ages | Search for decorative squash tucked throughout the gardens. Create nature rubbings, check out the Sheep Sheds, play games, and more.

Issaquah Highlands Treats and Tails | Saturday, October 18 | 12-2 p.m. | 2550 NE Park Dr., Issaquah | Free | Ages 3-10 accompanied by an adult | Bring a bag and come trick-or-treating. Feel free to bring pets and the whole family. Those without a reserved time slot can wait in the stand-by line. Reserve a time slot here.

Museum of Fright | Sunday, October 26 | 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.| The Museum of Flight | Free admission to kids under 17 in costume (see costume policy on website) and activities are included in tickets or membership | All ages | Across the museum galleries, you’ll find Halloween games and activities for kids to spark imagination, innovation, and get in the Halloween spirit. This will be a frightful extravaganza!

Costumed fun awaits at the Museum of Fright. (Image: Ted Huetter)

Halloween Factoria | Friday, October 31 | 4:30-6:30 p.m.| 4053 Factoria Mall SE, Bellevue | Free | All ages | Children 12 and under who are dressed in Halloween costumes can trick-or-treat at participating retailers. A DJ will spin the top Halloween-themed pop music, and strolling costumed Halloween characters will add to the event’s fun.

More Fall Fun

Still craving cozy fall adventures? There’s plenty more to explore before the pumpkins disappear for the season:

Ultimate Guide to Seattle-Area Halloween Events — Your go-to roundup of parades, festivals, and spooky (but not scary) fun for all ages.
Free Halloween Events for Families — Trick-or-treating, carnivals, and community celebrations that won’t cost a dime.
Pumpkin Patch Roundup — Find the best local farms for photo ops, hayrides, and cider donuts.
Apple Picking Farms Near Seattle — A sweet day trip idea for families who love crisp air and fresh apples.
Best Fall Color Hikes — Kid-friendly trails where the leaves put on a show.
Free Family Events This Weekend — Updated weekly with free and low-cost outings for every kind of Seattle family.

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2025 Guide: Pumpkin patches near Seattle for families

Fiona Cohen — Fri, 24 Oct 2025 01:55:00 +0000

Visiting a pumpkin patch around Seattle is a classic family outing for fall.

Instead of grabbing a pumpkin at the supermarket, you get to wander the fields, pick the perfect one, and kick off your Halloween fun with a day outdoors. The weather might be rainy and muddy or crisp and sunny, but either way the fall scenery makes the trip worth it.

Pumpkin patches also offer more than just pumpkins. Some are relaxed and low-key, giving families plenty of space to explore. Others feel more like a mini fair, with corn mazes, hayrides, kids’ games, and food stands — sometimes with entry fees or ticketed activities.

A word of advice: the most popular patches near the city sell out quickly, especially on October weekends. If you have your heart set on a certain spot, plan ahead and go early in the season.

Tips for Visiting a Pumpkin Patch

Don’t bring pets.
Some places run out of pumpkins as Halloween gets closer, so call ahead.
Dress for mud.
Many farms have beautiful pumpkin displays that make perfect backdrops for portraits of your family or kids. Take your pictures BEFORE you go out in the field.

Pumpkin Patches in Seattle

Seattle Farm

Address: 9761 Beacon Ave S, Seattle, WA 98118
Pumpkins & Ponies Event: Oct. 3 and 11, only

Seattle Farm, family-owned for more than 100 years, offers a rare chance to experience a pumpkin patch within Seattle city limits. Their special Pumpkins & Ponies event features a pumpkin harvest, pony rides, a lunch stand, and seasonal treats. Parking admission covers the whole carload, and tickets are limited, so plan ahead.

Pumpkin Patches North of Seattle

Bailey Family Farm

Address: 12968 Springhetti Rd, Snohomish, WA 98296
Pumpkin Picking Opening: September 21, 2025

Check ahead to find out what’s ready for harvest at this farm, which offers a variety of U-pick vegetables and pumpkins. Open weekends 10 a.m . to 5:30 p.m. and weekdays 12- 5:30 p.m.

Bellewood Acres

Address: 6140 WA-539 #3, Lynden, WA 98264
Pumpkin Patch Opening: October 1, 2025

The pumpkin patch offers a variety of pumpkins. Features carving pumpkins, cafe and bakery. They will serve hot cider, caramel apples, and more.

Bob’s Corn and Pumpkin Farm

Address: 10917 Elliott Rd, Snohomish, WA 98296
Fall Festival Begins: September 13, 2025
Cost: $17.95 weekday, $26.95 weekend ($5 more if bought at the gate). $2 off on September weekends | Tickets

Bob’s Corn and Pumpkin Farm boasts a 10-acre corn maze, plus a kids’ corn maze. Advanced ticket purchase is recommended. Not just about corn mazes, Bob’s also offers: hayrides, trike track, slides and cow-train rides.

Carleton Farm

Address: 630 Sunnyside Blvd SE, Lake Stevens, WA 98258
Opens: September 25, 2025
Cost: $15 per person for entry to corn maze, hayrides, and kids play area. $25 per person for additional paintball shooting gallery, apple cannons, kids bucket train, and jump pad. Free for the pumpkin patch, petting zoo, and farm market/food area.

This farm has two pumpkin cannons, which send pumpkins sailing over the fields with a wallop of air. Also at Carleton Farms: a five-acre corn maze, hay rides, kids’ play area, and paintball gallery.

Craven Farm

Address: 13817 Short School Rd, Snohomish, WA 98290
Pumpkin Patch Opening: September 20, 2025
Cost: Entry to the farm is free | Fee-based activities

Celebrating all things pumpkin, Craven will have many family-friendly games, treats, and a pumpkin patch to find that perfect pumpkin. Sept. 20 through Oct. 30—various days. See website for more details. Things to look out for at the Farm include miniature golf, an apple slinger, and rubber duck races.

Fall traditions at Craven Farm include pumpkins, corn mazes, and sweet family moments like this one. (Image courtesy Craven Farm and Jon Kaplan Photography)

Stocker Farms

Address: 8705 Marsh Rd, Snohomish, WA 98296
Open: Sept 20, 21, 27, 28, 29, 30, and October 1-31, 2025 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Cost: $15.95 – $20.95 | Tickets

Along with a Kraken-themed corn maze, you can enjoy duck races, a cow train, a sport ball arcade, corn box, and other sources of hilarity. A portion of the admission into the corn maze will be donated to the Ronald McDonald House.

Swans Trail Farms

Address: 7301 Rivershore Rd, Snohomish, WA 98290
Open: September 13-October 31, 2025
Cost: $15-$23 | Tickets

This farm has a 12-acre corn maze inspired by the geography of Washington state, with corn-y renditions of 400 towns and landmarks, each labeled with educational facts. Open 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. weekdays and 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. weekends Sept. 13 through Oct. 31. Purchase your tickets beforehand. Also at Swans Trail Farms: petting farm, wagon rides, live duck and pig races, and a hay maze in the barn.

Thomas Family Farm

Address: 9010 Marsh Rd, Snohomish, WA 98296
Open: October 3-November 1
Cost: Free access to pumpkin patch | Fee-based activities

Along with the 10-acre corn maze, there’s a paintball, apple cannons, and other activities. Look here to find which nights the farm is open. Fun Park is open every Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in October.

Fairbank Animal Farm

Address: 15308 52nd Ave W, Edmonds, WA 98026
Open: Weekends in October, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Cost: Admission is $5 per person.

This farm has a pumpkin patch, farm animals, toy duck races, baby animals, and family-friendly activities. The farm will be open on weekends in October.

Pumpkin Patches East of Seattle

Fall City Farms

Address: 3636 Neal Rd SE, Fall City, WA 98024
Open: Weekends in October 2025

Scenery and farm animals are the main benefits of picking up your pumpkins at this patch, less than ten minutes from Snoqualmie Falls outside Seattle. Open Fridays and Saturdays 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sundays 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Jubilee Farm

Address: 229 W. Snoqualmie River Rd NE, Carnation, WA 98014
Harvest Festival Open: Saturdays and Sundays in October, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. U-pick pumpkin patch also open October weekdays, 12- 5 p.m.
Cost: Free admission and free parking

If you want to get a chance to take a wheelbarrow and pick out pumpkins at this farm, be one of the first people to arrive and park in the lot. There will be farm critters that you can say hello to, enjoy hot apple cider, or visit their barn store for Jubilee goodies. The U-Pick Pumpkin Patch will be open on weekdays in October!

Remlinger Farms

Address: 32610 NE 32nd St, Carnation, WA 98014
Fall Festival: Fall Harvest open September 27 and every weekend in October; 10 a.m.-6 p.m., weekends only; Pumpkin picking and wagon rides Thursday-Sunday

The Family Fun Park has many rides, including a half-sided steam train, kid-sized roller coaster, Ferris wheel, miniature Model Ts, pedal cars and a carousel, a zip line and more. Check the website for hours. Interested in a pony ride? See the website for restrictions and a chance to reserve tickets.

Two Brothers Pumpkins at Game Haven Farm

Address: 7110 310th Ave NE, Carnation, WA 98014
Opening Day: TBD

If you are looking for a pumpkin patch that is all about pumpkin cultivation, and not about the extras, this could be the place for you.

Oxbow Farm

Address: 10819 Carnation Duvall Rd NE, Carnation
Open: October 18-19, 25-26 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

This organic farm and education center has a pumpkin slingshot available for use during its Oxtober Fall Festival. There will also be hayrides, face painting, live music, self-guided tours, and access to a hiking trail. See website for ticket information.

The Pumpkin River at Oxbow Farm is a highlight of the Oxtober Fall Festival in Carnation. (Photo courtesy Oxbow Farm)

Pumpkin Patches South of Seattle

Briscot Farm

Address: 27329 78th Ave S, Kent, WA 98032
Opening Day: Now open: Wed-Sun 10 a.m.-6 p.m. through October 31

A small family-owned farm and historic landmark in Kent. Farm and play yard open at this low-key, family-friendly farm.

Carpinito Brothers

Address: 1148 Central Ave N, Kent, WA 98032
Opens: Sept. 26-Oct. 31
Cost: $7 for pumpkin patch admission

Along with a state-of-the-art corn maze, this pumpkin patch has a farm fun yard where kids can see animals and do activities.

Double R Farms

Address: 5820 44th St E, Puyallup, WA 98371
Opening Day: Open October 4 – October 31; Saturday/Sunday: 10 am-6 pm and Monday-Friday: 3 pm-6 pm

This farm has a five-acre corn maze, three pumpkin slingshots (one of which just for kids), farm animals, and, on weekends when the weather isn’t too terrible, tractor-pulled hayrides. Open through Halloween.

Picha Farms

Address: 6502 52nd St E, Puyallup, WA 98371
Opens: September 27- October 20, 2025
Cost: No admission fee. Fees are activity-based.

Picha Farms has a five-acre corn maze, a slingshot they claim is the best in the Puyallup valley, and hayrides. They will have live bluegrass music on weekends, October 5-27.

Spooner Farms

Address: 9710 WA-162, Puyallup, WA 98374
Open: September 27-October 31

Spooner Farms has a five-acre corn maze. The Fall Festival will have farm animals, pumpkin slingshots, Pete’s play town, concessions, and much more. The pumpkin patch is open daily. Find out more details on their website about hours of operation.

Thomasson Family Farm

Address: 38223 236th Ave SE, Enumclaw, WA 98022
Open: Weekends, September 27-October 30 from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Cost: $15.50 – $21.50 for general admission online | Tickets

Thomasson Family Farm has a five-acre corn maze and a Kids Korral full of activities, including a hay maze.

Maris Farms

Address: 25001 Sumner Buckley Hwy, Buckley, WA 98321
Open: September 27-October 26, 2025 (closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays)
Cost: $27-$40 depending on day of week | Tickets

There’s a four-acre corn maze, other activities such as wagon rides and zip lines, and night-time attractions such as a flashlight maze and “Haunted Woods” (not recommended for kids under 11.)

At Maris Farms, even the wheelbarrow rides are part of the pumpkin patch fun. (Image courtesy Maris Farms)

Rutledge Family Farm

Address: 302 93rd Ave SE, Olympia, WA 98501
Open: September 20-November 1, 2025 from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Cost: $13 admission | Tickets

Enjoy fall activities, pumpkin picking, wagon rides and more.

Schilter Family Farm

Address: 141 Nisqually Cut Off Rd SE, Olympia, WA 98513
Open: September 27-October 31, 2025
Cost: $12-$19 | Tickets

Pumpkin patch, corn maze and over 20 family-friendly activities to enjoy.

Corn Mazes Near Seattle

Looking for more fall fun? The following farms also offer corn mazes: Bob’s Corn and Pumpkin Farm, Carleton Farm, Stocker Farms, Swans Trail Farms, Thomas Family Farm, Carpinito Brothers, Double R Farms, Picha Farms, Spooner Farms, Thomasson Family Farm, Maris Farms, Schilter Family Farm.

More Ways to Celebrate Fall in Seattle

Seattle pumpkin patches are just the start of autumn fun. If your family loves fresh air and farm adventures, make sure to add apple picking to your fall bucket list. Local orchards around Seattle offer crisp apples right off the tree, plus cider, baked goods, and plenty of photo-worthy scenery.

Check out our guide to apple picking near Seattle for the best orchards, tips for families, and seasonal updates.

Ready for even more fall fun? Don’t miss our roundup of Halloween events for kids and families around Seattle — packed with spooky train rides, harvest festivals, costume parades, and more!

The post 2025 Guide: Pumpkin patches near Seattle for families appeared first on Seattle's Child.

A fun way to find Halloween costume ideas

Julie Hanson — Fri, 24 Oct 2025 01:54:57 +0000

Need Halloween costume ideas for kids? Here’s help.

Particularly if you’re looking beyond the typical clowns and princesses, check the website A Mighty Girl. It has a fun, interactive, costume-finding tool that sorts by age and category. And honestly, a lot of these costumes are not gender-specific.

Photo from A Mighty Girl website

Halloween costume ideas from A Mighty Girl

The ages go from infant to adult, and the categories include animals, humorous, traditional/scary and, my personal favorite, historical.

How much fun would it be to trick-or-treat with your preschool-aged Harriet Tubman or Sally Ride?

We also loved the Supreme Court justice (RBG, anyone?), the Baby M.D. and all of the superheroes. Also, who doesn’t love a tiny, cuddly sloth?

You can save a trip to the mall by using the “Buy from Amazon” links. Shopping this way sends a portion of proceeds to support A Mighty Girl and its girl empowerment mission.

A Mighty Girl calls itself “the world’s largest collection of books, toys and movies for smart, confident, and courageous girls.” In addition to the costume guide, it has dozens of fun and spooky book and movie selections for kids and teens.

Popular Halloween costumes

Separately, there’s this from a fashion website that said it analyzed Google trends data to declare “2024’s most popular Halloween costumes.” Here’s what they came up with:

Deadpool and Wolverine
Wizard of Oz
Beetlejuice
Barbie and Ken
After that, ghost is a perennial favorite

More fall and Halloween fun:

Fall farm fun: corn mazes and pumpkin patches

DIY Halloween costumes and where to go in the Seattle area

The post A fun way to find Halloween costume ideas appeared first on Seattle's Child.

Host a Pumpkin Carving Party

Erika Bigelow — Fri, 24 Oct 2025 01:53:00 +0000

Halloween is my favorite holiday. It’s my Dad’s birthday, so growing up we’d always have birthday pumpkin pie on top of the loot I collected. But above and beyond that scrumptious pie, Halloween contains all sorts of fun elements that can translate into family traditions. And it is a holiday that easily stretches out to be enjoyed for more than just one day. It encompasses excursions to corn mazes, pumpkin patches and haunted houses. It includes deliberating on candy purchases, decorating the house, Halloween parties and, of course, pumpkin carving.

When my daughter was 7 years old and less likely to use the pumpkin carving knife to sever her finger, I planned an official pumpkin carving party. Perhaps you are, too. Here are my party planning tips.

Timing
The week or weekend before Halloween is probably best. If it’s too much before that, the carved pumpkins are likely to rot. And while that adds flair to the kids’ creations, their parents might not appreciate mold on their front porches.
You Supply the Pumpkins
That way, all of them will be approximately the same size, and the kids will be able to dig out most of the pulp and seeds on their own before they need some knife help.
Get Ready for the Goop
Before the kids arrive, cover the table in newspaper and lay out spoons, carving implements, Sharpies for drawing on the pumpkin faces, and a couple of large bowls for seeds (we love to roast them) and pumpkin guts. It might not be a bad idea to put some plastic bags or newspaper on the floor, too. If you’re hosting girls with long hair, pull out a few extra barrettes and hair bands because long hair and pumpkin goo do not go well together.
Snacks
My favorite Halloween-y snacks are grapes (eyeballs), mini corn dogs (mummies) and sugar cookies (witches’ fingers). The only prep here is with the fingers. Either homemade or store bought sugar cookie dough will work. Just cut out finger-size sections – the more misshapen the better – and add a red food coloring dyed sliced almond (fingernail). They look even better if brushed with egg before baking, but it’s not necessary. Serve with sparkling apple cider (who doesn’t like bubbles?) and snacks are complete.
Activities
It’s inevitable that at least one kid will be a super carver or a minimalist, so it’s important to keep him occupied with an activity that’s fun – but not so much fun that it distracts the other pumpkin carvers. This is the perfect scenario for tissue ghosts. All it takes is one box of Kleenex, a skein of string and a Sharpie. Crumple one tissue into a ball, place it in the center of an open tissue, tie string around outside tissue at base of inner tissue ball and – Voila – one ghost. Decorate with a Sharpie and hang from doorways, light fixtures, etc. … It’s cheap, it’s fast, it’s easy, and it will keep the overachievers busy.
Wrapping It Up
Remember to have votive candles and a box of matches nearby. Once all of the kids have completed their masterpieces, it is fun to get a group photo. The kids are always so proud of their creations and will definitely be grinning ear-to-ear. The funny thing about their grins this year is that the jack-o-lanterns will be missing just as many teeth as the 7-year-olds we’re inviting.

Hope your Halloween is Spook-tacular!

Check out the Seattle’s Child calendar for more things to do

Halloween costume ideas from A Mighty Girl

DIY Halloween costumes and where to go in Seattle area

The post Host a Pumpkin Carving Party appeared first on Seattle's Child.