Autumn has arrived in Chestnut Hill, bringing crisp air, colorful foliage, and a full calendar of fun, family-friendly, and delightfully spooktacular events. Throughout October, the vibrant neighborhood transforms into a festive fall wonderland, offering unforgettable experiences that will enchant visitors of all ages. From a pawsitively spooky pet parade and a wickedly imaginative scarecrow walk to a whimsical straw maze and a full day of trick-or-treating for little ghouls and goblins, Chestnut Hill promises a mesmerizing blend of seasonal charm and festive excitement all month long.
From October 26 to October 31, Halloween on the Hill returns to Chestnut Hill as the historic urban village transforms into a magically enchanted version of Halloweentown. Chestnut Hill hosts its inaugural Halloween Scavenger Hunt on Sunday, October 27, from noon to 4 p.m., where a special event raffle will take place. Families are invited to explore 18 participating businesses throughout the neighborhood, where hidden spooky treasures and scavenger hunt stickers await. Participants must collect all 18 stickers and submit their completed brochures by 4:30 p.m. at the designated drop-off location for a chance to be entered into the raffle. Each team can include up to four participants and children under 11 must be accompanied by an adult. A prize drawing will be held on Monday, October 28, at 5 p.m., where four lucky winners will each receive a Chestnut Hill gift certificate. Families must register in advance to participate in the scavenger hunt.
Pet parents can grab their furry friends and strut in their best doggone costumes during the Chestnut Hill Community Association’s annual Halloween Pet Parade on Sunday, October 27, from 12:30 to 1 p.m. The festive parade of pooches will kick off at the top of Germantown Avenue and end at Buckley Park, where participants can indulge in delicious Halloween treats and capture memorable photos along the way. Following the parade, families are invited to don their favorite costumes and stroll along Germantown Avenue and Bethlehem Pike for a fun-filled afternoon of trick-or-treating from 1 to 3 p.m. Participating businesses will be handing out candy and other delightful treats throughout the day. Families are also encouraged to explore shops and restaurants displaying a “Treats Here” poster to find even more festive goodies.
During trick-or-treating, select businesses will participate in the Teal Pumpkin Project, initiated by FARE (Food Allergy Research & Education). Trick-or-treaters carrying a teal pumpkin will be easily recognizable as children with allergies and will have the opportunity to visit businesses participating in the Teal Pumpkin Project. These businesses will have signs in their windows indicating their involvement in offering allergy-friendly treats alongside traditional candy options, ensuring a safe and inclusive experience for everyone.
The ever-popular Morris ArBOOretum & Gardens (100 E Northwestern Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19118) is getting into the Halloween spirit, hosting a variety of events, including the highly-anticipated return of the 17th Annual Scarecrow Walk. This year, the scarecrows portray deliciously malicious movie villains, including Maleficent from Sleeping Beauty, Lord Farquaad from Shrek, and the Queen of Hearts from Alice in Wonderland. Visitors will be able to see these villainous scarecrows on display throughout the arboretum until October 31.
From now until October 17, guests can cast their votes for the best scarecrow during Morris’ annual scarecrow contest to determine the winners. The Woodmere Art Museum adds to the fall fun with the return of its annual straw maze. Perfect for children ages 4-11, the massive maze of hay bales is designed by local architects and provides hours of outdoor excitement. Open every Saturday and Sunday from now until December 1, families can explore the maze’s zigzagging paths and tunnels while taking in the crisp fall weather. The maze costs $5 per child for non-museum members and $20 for a group of five. Tickets can be purchased at the front desk. Admission to the museum is free for parents or guardians whose children have tickets to the maze.
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