October in York is a magical time for families. The historic city transforms into a playground of autumn colour, laughter, and just the right touch of Halloween spookiness. With half-term falling in late October, parents can look forward to a wide range of family-friendly events — from pumpkin patches and craft workshops to light trails and ghostly adventures designed for all ages.
Here’s your ultimate guide to the best October half term and Halloween activities for kids in York, complete with reasons why families will love each one.
1. The Yorkshire Halloween Festival
Where: Parliament Street & St Sampson’s Square
When: 23–31 October 2025
Why kids will love it: This week-long celebration brings York city centre to life with colourful autumn décor, artisan stalls, and plenty of hands-on fun for little ones. Children can join pumpkin-carving sessions, biscuit-decorating workshops, and even design their own Halloween-themed crafts to take home.
Parents will appreciate the Sensory Tipi, which provides a calm space for children who prefer a quieter experience. Live music, local food stalls, and family-friendly performances make this one of the best city-centre Halloween events in the UK.
What to expect: A free outdoor festival that’s perfect for a full day out in York. Expect busy streets, smiling faces, and a carnival-like atmosphere that mixes spooky fun with community spirit.
2. Piglets Adventure Farm’s Spooktacular Pumpkin Festival
Where: Towthorpe Grange, Towthorpe Moor Lane
When: Weekends from 11 October and daily from 25–31 October 2025
Why kids will love it: Every child receives a free pumpkin to carve in the Pumpkin Barn, and the farm’s friendly staff are on hand with tools and creative ideas. Alongside pumpkin picking, there are spooky mazes, a Monster Mash disco, and live shows that balance silliness with a little seasonal fright.
Younger visitors can enjoy the adventure playground and farm animals, while older children can try out the mysterious Mysterious Maize Maze challenge.
What to expect: A full day of outdoor fun with themed food stalls, seasonal games, and family photo opportunities around the farm. Be sure to pack wellies and layers — it’s as muddy as it is magical!
3. Hallowtween at York Maze
Where: York Maze, Elvington Lane
When: 25–31 October 2025
Why kids will love it: Designed for 10–15-year-olds, Hallowtween bridges the gap between child-friendly and full horror. With themed zones, live actors, sound effects, and immersive lighting, it’s a thrill without the terror. Kids will explore haunted barns, eerie corn mazes, and meet friendly monsters who are more cheeky than chilling.
What to expect: This is one of the most acclaimed Halloween experiences for older children in the UK. Expect queues at peak times, so booking ahead is a must. Families with teenagers will especially enjoy the electric, festival-style energy of the venue.
4. The Little York Ghost Hunt
Where: Starting from York Minster area
When: 27–30 October 2025, 6–8pm
Why kids will love it: This is the ultimate family-friendly ghost adventure. Instead of spooky scares, it’s a treasure hunt for hidden ghost figurines placed around York’s ancient streets. Kids can follow a map and, if they’re lucky enough to spot a ghost, they get to keep it as a souvenir!
What to expect: A light-hearted outdoor evening activity perfect for younger children. Parents will love the opportunity to explore York’s landmarks after dark, and it’s completely free to join.
5. Creative Family Thursday at York Art Gallery
Where: York Art Gallery, Exhibition Square
When: Thursday 30 October 2025
Why kids will love it: A perfect choice for a rainy day, this hands-on art session invites families to get creative with seasonal crafts. Kids can make paper pumpkins, leaf collages, and spooky lanterns inspired by the museum’s autumn exhibits.
What to expect: Drop-in sessions run throughout the day, and materials are included. Staff artists help guide children through simple but engaging art projects. It’s calm, cosy, and educational — ideal for younger children or families seeking a relaxed break from the Halloween crowds.
6. York Castle Museum’s “A Victorian Halloween”
Where: York Castle Museum
When: 26–31 October 2025
Why kids will love it: Step back in time to discover how the Victorians celebrated Halloween! Families can explore recreated Victorian streets, hear spooky ghost tales from costumed storytellers, and try their hand at traditional Halloween games.
There’s even a “Fear Factor Challenge” where children test their bravery by feeling mysterious objects hidden in boxes (spoiler: it’s just grapes and spaghetti).
What to expect: Immersive, educational fun that’s perfectly suited for children aged 6+. Parents will appreciate the museum’s blend of history and light-hearted spookiness.
7. Halloween Family Rave at The Crescent
Where: The Crescent Community Venue, York
When: 27 October 2025
Why kids will love it: Hosted by the award-winning Big Fish Little Fish crew, this daytime rave transforms the venue into a family disco with glow sticks, bubbles, and live DJs playing retro hits. Fancy dress is encouraged, and there’s a dedicated toddler chill zone.
What to expect: A two-hour dance party that’s family-safe but full of energy. Expect colourful lighting, themed decorations, and smiles all around. Great for kids aged 2–8 and parents who miss their clubbing days!
8. The Great York Ghost Search
Where: Across the city centre
When: 20–31 October 2025
Why kids will love it: This free city-wide event invites families to explore York’s streets in search of hidden illuminated ghosts displayed in shop windows. Children can collect trail maps and check off their finds as they go.
What to expect: Perfect for daytime exploring, with prizes for completing the trail. It’s an engaging way to sightsee York while keeping children entertained.
9. Halloween Kids’ Party at Dunnington Village Hall
Where: Dunnington, York
When: 31 October 2025, 6–8pm
Why kids will love it: The event features a fancy-dress competition, games, disco, and party snacks. It’s a safe, local event ideal for families staying on the outskirts of York.
What to expect: A friendly community vibe and a great chance for children to socialise and show off their costumes before heading back for an early night.
10. Pumpkin Picking at Balloon Tree Farm
Where: Gate Helmsley, near York
When: Throughout October 2025
Why kids will love it: Simple joys done right — picking pumpkins straight from the field, jumping in hay bales, and finishing off with hot chocolate in the farm café.
What to expect: Great for younger children and toddlers. The farm is family-run and offers a relaxed, scenic countryside experience just minutes from York city centre.
Where to Stay
If you’re planning a family getaway to York this October, you’ll want a place that’s both comfortable and convenient. Pass the Keys York, led by Sam Marsh, offers a selection of beautifully managed short-term rentals perfect for families visiting during half-term. From city-centre apartments to countryside cottages, each home is fully serviced and ready for your stay — making your Halloween adventure in York stress-free and memorable.
