If you’re a major Halloween lover, there’s one place you need to go: Halloweentown.
Yup, it turns out this isn’t a place of your dreams, it’s real!
Halloweentown is a bit of a cult favorite based on a Disney Channel movie of the same name that aired in the late 90s. But the good news is, each October, the real Halloweentown opens its doors and welcomes visitors from all over the world.
In this post, we’re going to tell you everything you need to know. Let’s dig in!
Where is Halloweentown?
Turns out, Halloweentown is tucked in a sleepy corner of the Pacific Northwest.
The real Halloweentown is a place called St. Helens, Oregon. It’s about a 40 minute drive along the Columbia River north of Portland. So that makes for an absolutely perfect spot for a day trip if you happen to be spending time in and around Portland.
There are dozens of flights in and out of Portland’s airport from around the country (as well as international locations) daily.
If you’re coming from Seattle, it’s about a three and a half hour journey down Interstate 5.
Things to Do
Every October, St. Helens transforms itself for visitors. The entire town creates an even called “The Spirit of Halloweentown” that runs the entire month.
If you love Halloween, St. Helens goes above and beyond. The town recreates the movie set, including storefronts, and even people from the town in replica costumes. For people who love the movie, you’ll really feel like you’ve stepped right into it.
There are plenty of things to do as well.
Visitors can enjoy corn mazes, pony rides, treasure hunts, bonfires, ghost talks, tarot card readings, plus an extra spooky haunted house.
Another fan favorite is the hot rod and hearse contest. Here, classic hot rod car owners tow decorated hearses behind their cars, then people vote on the scariest (or funniest) combinations.
There’s a lot of events for kids too. You can find a parade, pumpkin carving contests, and trick or treating opportunities, so bring your sweet tooth. There are also face painting booths, live music, and tractor rides.
For more adult celebrations, Halloweentown has you covered too. The town hosts special costume and cocktail parties as well as some dinner and dance parties too.
If you’re considering going, be sure to check the schedule. Every week, there are different events you can enjoy. And sometimes, a few celeberities will even make appearances, including those who starred in the original movie.
Enjoy!
The real Halloweentown has been hosting this event for over 20 years. And in the last few years, it’s really been gaining steam with fans of the movie, so don’t hesitate to book yourself a fun trip to St. Helens and get yourself immersed in the full Halloween spirit!
Oh, and don’t forget to bring your own Halloween costume, you don’t want to be left out.
