Never be bored! Check out all of the local events around town throughout the rest of the month!
OCTOBER 19-31 EVENTS:
What: HAUNTED TRAILS
Come if you dare!
When: Thursday, October 19, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Where: THELMA GILMUR PARK, 1404 Evergreen Dr, Fircrest, WA 98466
More info: not recommended for kids under 6 years, $3 suggested donation
Link: https://www.cityoffircrest.net/event/haunted-trails-6/
What: TACOMA READS ART WORKSHOP WITH TACOMA ART MUSEUM
Join Tacoma Art Museum as we explore artwork centered around the Tacoma Reads children's title, Home by Tonya Lippert and the theme of housing insecurity. Afterwards we will create collages of a tiny village using foam stickers, repurposed metallic paper, tissue papers, and multicolored construction papers.
When: Thursday, October 19, 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM
Where: MOTTET LIBRARY, 3523 East G Street, Tacoma, WA 98404
Link: https://tacoma.bibliocommons.com/events/64b1e34a797ddb2b4fc136dd
What: FREE THIRD THURSDAYS
Welcome to FREE Third Thursday! The Washington State History Museum is pleased to offer free admission for all from 3:00-8:00 PM. Come see the exhibitions! Consider making an evening of it and enjoy refreshments or a meal downtown along Pacific Avenue.
When: Thursday, October 19, 3:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Where: WASHINGTON STATE HISTORY MUSEUM, 1911 Pacific Ave, Tacoma, WA 98402
Link: https://www.washingtonhistory.org/event/third-thursdays-Octoberober-2023/
What: DRAWING NIGHT
Join us for an evening of art inspired by our museum collection! To attend our Drawing Nights, please email us at pugetsoundmuseum@pugetsound.edu and ask to be added to our SciArt mailing list.
When: Thursday, October 19, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Where: PUGET SOUND MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY, 1565 N Union Ave, Tacoma, WA 98416
More info: Sign-up required to attend this event
Link: https://www.pugetsound.edu/puget-sound-museum-natural-history/visit-slater-museum
What: PROGRAM KITS FROM CRAFTOPIA
Craftopia is partnering with Tacoma Public Library to provide fun and free crafts for kids! Visit our Fern Hill, Kobetich, Moore, Mottet, South Tacoma, Swasey, and Wheelock branches to pick up a kit while supplies last. The theme for October 20th is Spider Web Weaving.
When: Friday, October 20, 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Where: Fern Hill, Kobetich, Moore, Mottet, South Tacoma, Swasey, and Wheelock branches
More info: Free, all ages
Link: https://tacoma.bibliocommons.com/events/64b74b25004ea45f5a04afbd
What: PARANORMAN: MOVIES ON THE LANES
Book a 1-hour bowling reservation at 8pm and stay for the whole movie at no additional charge.
When: Friday, October 20, 8:00 PM
Where: OCEAN5, 5268 Point Fosdick Dr, Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Link: https://o5social.com/bowling-reservations/
What: TRAIL OF TRICKS
Halloween creatures have taken over the Grandview Trail at Chambers Creek Regional Park! Starting at the playground, go along the trail in search of 10 creepy and tricky creatures but don't pick them up as that could bring bad luck. Find all 10 creatures, fill out your scavenger hunt card, and then turn in the hunt card to get a prize!
When: Friday, October 20 - Tuesday, October 31
Where: CHAMBERS CREEK REGIONAL PARK, 6320 Grandview Dr W, University Place, WA 98467
More info: 12 and under, free
Link: https://www.piercecountywa.gov/7421/Trail-of-Tricks
What: SWIFTIE SKATE NIGHT
Get ready to dance the night away at the Swiftie Skate Night, a tribute to Taylor Swift's iconic music on a specially themed roller skating floor.
When: Friday, October 20, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Where: SKATEWORLD TACOMA, 2101 Mildred St W, Fircrest, WA 98466
More info: All ages, $15
Link: https://www.skateworld.com/tacoma#
What: OCEAN5 CASINO NIGHT
Enjoy a fun night out gambling with fake money and win great prizes! Cocktail attire suggested but not required. Cocktail hour starts at 6pm with light passed appetizers. Gambling starts at 7 and goes until 10pm. There will be slight of hand up close magic as well as door prizes and giveaways all night.
When: Friday, October 20, 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Where: OCEAN5, 5268 Point Fosdick Dr, Gig Harbor, WA 98335
More info: 21+, $50
Link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ocean5-casino-night-tickets-708972043467?aff=odcleoeventsincollection
What: HOOT 'N' HOWL
Put on a costume and experience the wildlife park at twilight! Lights, animals and spookiness... plus candy too. Play pumpkin checkers and tic tac toe. And snap those adorable spooky photos. (No costume face masks for adults, please.)
When: Friday, October 20 - Saturday, October 21, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Where: NORTHWEST TREK WILDLIFE PARK, 11610 Trek Dr E, Eatonville, WA 98328
More info: All ages, $12
Link: https://www.nwtrek.org/event/hootnhowl-2/
What: AUTUMN SOUND HEALING: BOTANICAL GARDEN SESSIONS
Make way in your life for transformation through the healing power of sound while surrounded by the beautiful botanical gardens within the W.W. Seymour Conservatory facilitated by Aimee Arendsee of Indivara Sound and Healing Arts. Relax into deep meditation through the sounds of crystal singing bowls, planetary tuned gongs, ocean drums, Koshi chimes, handpan and more.
Where: W.W. SEYMOUR BOTANICAL CONSERVATORY, 316 South G St, Tacoma, WA 98405
When: Friday, October 20, 6:00 PM - 7:15 PM
More info: All ages, $30, Please bring a water bottle, yoga mat/sleeping pad, blanket and pillow (if desired). We will also have chairs or benches available.
Link: https://www.metroparkstacoma.org/event/autumn-sound-healing-October/
What: HOLIDAY CRAFT & GIFT SALE 2023
More than 50 local vendors with handcrafted, vintage, and upcycled items.
Held at the historical Fruitland Grange on the corner of 112th and 86th on South Hill, this annual Holiday Craft show will have something for everyone on your shopping list.
When: Saturday, October 21, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Where: FRUITLAND GRANGE, 11102 86th Ave E, Puyallup, WA 98373
More info: Free
Link: https://www.facebook.com/events/1187525031942543/
What: SELENA MOVIE PARTY
Celebrate the anniversary of Tejano music icon Selena Quintanilla's debut album with a family-friendly showing of the movie "Selena," and a jewelry craft. Supplies available while they last!
When: Saturday, October 21, 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Where: MOORE LIBRARY, 215 S 56th St, Tacoma, WA 98408
More info: Free, all ages
Link: https://tacoma.bibliocommons.com/events/64dfe895a60f8d3d0033fb04
What: Knitty Gritty Stitchers
Do you enjoy knitting, quilting, or any other fiber art? Share projects you are currently working on and socialize with like-minded folks.
When: Saturday, October 21, 2023, 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Where: Online via zoom
More info: Free
Link: https://tacoma.bibliocommons.com/events/64c1ce0714ef65244f441534
What: '90S HALLOWEEN COSTUME GLOW BALL
'90s Night is throwing a Halloween bash! Come dance to all your favorite 90s music videos on our giant movie sized screen. Halloween costumes are encouraged but not required. Everyone will receive glow necklaces at the door to help us light up the Ballroom! This will be the biggest 90s party of the year. This event sold out last year so get your tickets early.
When: Saturday, October 21, 9:00 PM
Where: MCMENAMINS SPANISH BALLROOM, 565 Broadway, Tacoma, WA 98402
More info: 21+, $23
Link: https://www.mcmenamins.com/events/246529-90s-halloween-costume-glow-ball
What: TACOMA NIGHT MARKET & SUNDAY DRAG MARKET
Come see us Octoberober 21st from 5pm to 10pm! Indulge with delicious food, all kinds of incredible wares from local vendors, and celebrate our beautiful creative community!!
When: Saturday, October 21, 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Where: FREIGHTHOUSE STATION, 2501 E D St, Tacoma, WA 98421
Link: https://www.instagram.com/p/Cv-nOIJS9ww/
What: BROWN GIRL BRUNCH
Brown Girls Brunch is a series of networking brunch events created to provide a space where entrepreneurs can cultivate their forward-thinking mindsets. This is achieved through a combination of social interactivity, educational workshops, entrepreneurial coaching and motivation from important figures in the business world. Our goal is to help Brown Girls achieve their short-term and long-term goals by strengthening the foundation of our community.
When: Saturday, October 21, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Where: WATERFRONT MARKET AT RUSTON, 5101 Yacht Club Rd, Ruston, WA 98407
More info: $89
Link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/brown-girl-brunch-seattle-tickets-660467685627
What: TACOMA HONK! FEST
Get spooky at Tacoma’s first annual HONK! Fest on October 21st, 2023 in the McKinley Hill neighborhood. Put on your favorite costume (Galloping Gertie anyone?) and bring a funky noisemaker. Meet your neighbors, local musicians, maybe even join a band!
When: Saturday, October 21, 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Where: McKinley Hill Business District, McKinley Avenue & East Division Lane, Tacoma
More info: All ages, free
Link: https://tacomahonk.org/
What: HARVEST FEST
Bring the family for harvest-themed fun! From 2-5 pm we’ll have music, carnival games, inflatables, arts and crafts, a selfie station, spooky maze, pumpkin patch and pumpkin decorating. *Activities and giveaways provided while supplies last.
When: Saturday, October 21, 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Where: STAR CENTER, 3873 S 66th St, Tacoma, WA 98409
More info: All ages, free
Link: https://www.metroparkstacoma.org/event/harvest-fest-at-star-center/
What: WITCHES BREW & SPOOKY TATTOOS
You are invited to come participate in our community alter build (ofrenda) in preparation for Dia de Los Muertos, walk in or pre book a flash tattoo by @gretchengambilltattoo, sip on some spiked witches brew with cold brew from our favorite neighbor @landercoffee, grab cake by @spilledbutterdesserts or, @badkitty.cakeshop or pan dulce from @selvacentralgoods, fresh bread from @bachchoyboy or a tarot reading with @harmonics.253!
When: Sunday, October 22, 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Where: LA PALOMA TACOMA, 2613 N 21st St, Tacoma, WA 98406
Link: https://www.facebook.com/lapalomatacoma/posts/321652647118622
What: ARTIST POP-UP: MELINDA SANTORA
Join us for a gallery night with Melinda Santora, eternal daydreamer and mixed media artist.
When: Sunday, October 22, 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Where: LOCUST CIDER GIG HARBOR, 3207 57th St Ct, Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Link: https://www.facebook.com/events/864268681762404/
What: HAUNTED HEADLIGHTS
Graham is casting a ghastly glow with ghouls and goblins as Haunted Headlights returns to Frontier Park for five days of family-friendly Halloween fun. Families can expect to creep along a path of eerie lights and encounter slightly spooky characters.
When: Wednesday, October 25 - Sunday, October 29, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Where: MERIDIAN HABITAT PARK, 14422 Meridian Ave E, Puyallup, WA 98375
More info: Requires pre-purchased tickets
Link: https://www.piercecountywa.gov/6998/Haunted-Headlights
What: NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM!
Come see the dead things come alive and join us for a night filled with spooky specimens. Costumes encouraged! This is a free, family-friendly drop-in event.
When: Thursday, October 26, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Where: PUGET SOUND MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY, 1565 N Union Ave, Tacoma, WA 98416
Link: https://www.pugetsound.edu/puget-sound-museum-natural-history/visit-slater-museum
What: FALL-O-WEEN CARNIVAL
Come see the dead things come alive and join us for a night filled with spooky specimens. Costumes encouraged! This is a free, family-friendly drop-in event.
When: Thursday, October 26, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Where: PUGET SOUND MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY, 1500 N Warner St, Tacoma, WA 98416) in Thompson Hall room 295
More info: Free, all ages
Link: https://www.pugetsound.edu/events/night-museum-fall-o-ween-carnival
What: BARBIE-WEEN W/ DJ RYAN FRESH
DJ Ryan Fresh will be spinning the hits on Octoberober 27th to kick off your Halloween Weekend! Whether you're dressed as Barbie, a zombie or zombie-Barbie, come dressed to impress at Tacoma's hottest Halloween party. See ya there!
When: Friday, October 27, 10:30 PM
Where: MCMENAMINS SPANISH BALLROOM, 565 Broadway, Tacoma, WA 98402
More info: 21+, $10
Link: https://www.mcmenamins.com/events/248274-barbie-ween-w-dj-ryan-fresh
What: KIDS NIGHT OUT
Enjoy a night off while your kids enjoy a night out! Our 5,000 sq. ft. indoor/outdoor Treetops playground is a blast, and kids can also enjoy themed games, and crafts.
When: Friday, October 27, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Where: STAR CENTER, 3873 S 66th St, Tacoma, WA 98409
More info: ages 5-12, $30, register online
Link: https://www.metroparkstacoma.org/event/kids-night-out/
What: TRUNK OR TREAT
PenMet Parks is hosting a family-friendly “Trunk-or-Treat” event the weekend before Halloween. We invite local businesses and non-profit organizations to host trunks and give treats for our little ghouls and goblins.
When: Friday, October 27, 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Where: PenMet Parks, 5717 Wollochet Dr #3, Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Link: https://penmetparks.org/event/trunk-or-treat/
What: STEILACOOM GHOST TOUR
During this month's ghost hunt we will get EXCLUSIVE access to the Orr Home in Steilacoom. This house dates back to 1857 and has been a point of interest for ghost hunters and supernatural enthusiasts alike. The tours begin at 6pm, 7pm, 8pm, & 9pm.
When: Friday, October 27, 6:00 PM, 7:00 PM, 8:00 PM, 9:00 PM
Where: STEILACOOM HISTORICAL MUSEUM, 1801 Rainier St, Steilacoom, WA
More info: All ages, $30
Link: https://www.facebook.com/events/s/steilacoom-ghost-tour/6600035870075706/
What: HALLOWEEN SKATE NIGHT
Dress up in your creepiest, craziest, or cutest costumes and roll into the Halloween spirit. Whether you're a little witch or a big vampire, this night is all about tricks, treats, and thrilling skating adventures.
When: Friday, October 27, 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Where: SKATEWORLD TACOMA, 2101 Mildred St W, Fircrest, WA 98466
More info: All ages, $15
Link: https://www.skateworld.com/tacoma#
What: FALL FOLIAGE DAY
Autumn marks one of the most significant seasonal transitions in bonsai, as the trees pull all their resources down into their roots and deciduous bonsai put on a colorful display. It is a fleeting moment to behold and enjoy.
When: Saturday, October 28, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Where: PACIFIC BONSAI MUSEUM, 2515 South 336th St, Federal Way, WA 98003
Link: https://pacificbonsaimuseum.org/events/fall-foliage-festival-2023/
What: HALLOWEEN ACTIVITY CRAFT PARTY AT CRAFT THEORY
Join us for a festive Halloween Party at Craft Theory! We welcome families from around the Lakewood area into our space for games, snacks, and crafts this Halloween season. We'll be having a costume contest with prizes as well so make sure you dress up! There will be at least 6 activities available.
When: Saturday, October 28, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Where: CRAFT THEORY, 11116 Gravelly Lake Drive SW, Lakewood, WA 98499
More info: Prices are $20 for one child and $10 for each additional child
Link: https://www.facebook.com/events/948211699613174/
What: SOUTH SOUND FAMILY FORMAL COSTUME BALL BY THE CO-LAB
This in-person event promises to be a magical experience for the whole family. So, gather your loved ones and prepare to be transported to a world of wonder and imagination. Whether you choose to dress up as your favorite character or simply enjoy the sight of others in their incredible costumes, this is an evening you won't want to miss!
When: Saturday, October 28, 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Where: 5101 Yacht Club Road, Ruston, WA 98407
More info: Tickets $30+, dinner included with ticket
Link: https://www.facebook.com/events/3460173877629531/
What: HALLOWEEN ON THE HILL 2023
Join us on Octoberober 28th for Halloween on the Hill 2023 presented by Tacoma Community House and The REACH Center – a safe and thrilling adventure for families to trunk or treat in the heart of our community.
When: Saturday, October 28, 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Where: TACOMA COMMUNITY HOUSE, 1314 South L St, Tacoma, WA 98405
More info: All ages, free
Link: https://www.tacomacommunityhouse.org/event/halloween-on-the-hill-2023/
What: ADULTS ONLY HALLOWEEN CRAFT PARTY
Join us for a festive Halloween Party at Craft Theory! We welcome adults over the age of 18 from around the Lakewood area into our space for crafts, games, and snacks and mocktails this Halloween season. We'll be having a costume contest with prizes as well so make sure you dress up! There will be at least 6 activities available.
When: Saturday, October 28, 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Where: CRAFT THEORY, 11116 Gravelly Lake Drive SW, Lakewood, WA 98499
More info: 18+, $45
Link: https://www.facebook.com/events/840377957802049/
What: DOG HALLOWEEN COSTUME PARTY
Calling all dog lovers! Join us for a paw-some day of tail-wagging fun at our Dog Costume Party! Dress up your furry friends in their costumes and strut your stuff in our pet parade! There will be treats, games and prizes for the most creative outfits! Don’t miss out! Free registration! Email rustonwetnose@gmail.com
When: Sunday, October 29, 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Where: WATERFRONT MARKET AT RUSTON, 5101 Yacht Club Rd, Ruston, WA 98407
More info: All ages, free
Link: https://www.waterfrontmarketatruston.com/event/dog-halloween-costume-party/
What: INDOOR TRICK OR TREAT IN RUSTON
Come join us for some INDOOR Trick or Treating ALL DAY at the Waterfront Market at Ruston, Tacoma. Candy, Face Painting, Games, Live Music, Bouncy House …And Much More!
When: Tuesday, October 31, 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Where: WATERFRONT MARKET AT RUSTON, 5101 Yacht Club Rd, Ruston, WA 98407
Link: https://www.waterfrontmarketatruston.com/event/indoor-trick-or-treat-in-ruston/
What: TRICK OR TREAT IN THE HARBOR
Bring your little monsters, superheroes, and Jedi Knights to trick or treat at businesses along the downtown waterfront. Harborview will be closed from Pioneer Way to Rosedale.
When: Tuesday, October 31, 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Where: Gig Harbor Waterfront, 3215 Harborview Dr, Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Link: https://www.ghdwa.org/trick-or-treat
What: BOO-ALLUP IN PUYALLUP
Bring the kids downtown for a safe and secure trick-or-treating experience! Loads of our downtown businesses will be handing out candies and treats for all the little ghosts and ghouls.
When: Tuesday, October 31, 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Where: Downtown Puyallup, 118 West Main, Puyallup, WA
Link: https://www.puyallupmainstreet.com/signature-events/boo-allup-in-puyallup-trick-or-treat/
What: TRUNK OR TREAT
Halloween is just around the corner, and Tacoma Urban Performing Arts Center is gearing up for an unforgettable Hilltop Trunk or Treat event in our community. To make it spooktacular, we're inviting you to join in the fun and become a part of the magic.
When: Tuesday, October 31, 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Where: TACOMA URBAN PERFORMING ARTS CENTER, 1105 MLK Jr Way, Tacoma, WA 98405
Link: https://www.facebook.com/events/2225855877619664/