Spooky Events in Essex for Halloween 2023

The pumpkin spice lattes are brewing, the leaves are falling, and the air is chilling, which can mean only one thing – spooky season is nearly here! With Halloween fast approaching, we thought we’d help you out by putting together a list of Halloween and October half-term activities to do in Essex. There’s something for everyone, from pumpkin picking to ghost trains and more. Read on for the full rundown on Halloween events in Essex.

Serial Killer Next Door at Chelmsford Theatre

Become captivated as one of the UK’s most prestigious psychological therapists and crime commentators, Emma Kenny, takes you through a journey explaining what creates a serial killer. Touching on notorious killers such as Ted Bundy and Jeffrey Dahmer as examples, Emma discusses the possible events within a person’s life that could have led to committing these crimes, whether their murderous ways could have been prevented, and if they were simply just born to kill. This spine-chilling show will be coming to Chelmsford Theatre on the 11th October. 

Open Day & Dog Show with a Halloween Twist at The Forgotten Gardens of Easton Lodge

A great day out for the children, adults, and dogs this October half term in Essex, The Forgotten Gardens of Easton Lodge are hosting an open day and dog show on the 15th October with a spooky little twist. Their last Sunday open day of the season will include dog classes such as Prettiest Puppy and Best in Show, the opportunity to meet and interact with local police dogs, and a competition for the best canine Halloween costume! There will also be a fantastic range of craft stalls, food and drink, and, of course, pumpkins and squashes available on the produce stall. 

Murder Mystery at the Lion Inn, Chelmsford

Immerse yourself in a thrilling murder mystery game at the Lion Inn on the 27th October, complete with a mouth-watering three-course meal and a welcome drink to keep your brain fuelled to figure out the unsolved crime. The evening will be packed full of excitement with a live professional theatre team who will create a thrilling and gripping performance that will have you drawn in from start to finish. Book your place to solve the case for just £49.95 per person.

Halloween Festival at Lee Valley Animal Adventure Park, Waltham Abbey 

Dress up in your most ghoulish costumes and explore Lee Valley Animal Adventure Park like you’ve never seen it before from the 21st to 29th October! A wonderful family Halloween event in Essex, the farm will be devilishly decorated with a variety of frighteningly festive activities such as fun fair rides, a Day of the Dead Disco, spooky shows, a pumpkin patch and so much more. Are you feeling brave enough to take on their Haunted Halloween Walkthrough? Every child who visits the Halloween Festival will be gifted with a FREE pumpkin. Just watch out for the wicked witch…

Halloween Festival & Pumpkin Village at Marsh Farm Animal Park, South Woodham Ferrers

Another opportunity to adorn your frightening finery, the Halloween Festival at Marsh Farm Animal Park is taking place from the 14th to 15th, and the 21st to 29th October. With creepy characters lurking around decorated the farm, you’re bound to get into the spooky spirit! Fun fair rides, a themed disco, and a trick or treat hunt are just some of the fun filled Halloween activities taking place during the event. Each child will get a FREE pumpkin when they visit, and the Pumpkin Village will also be open from the 28th September to the 31st October for you to pick up pumpkins for carving or cooking – the perfect opportunity for an autumnal photoshoot. 

With such a wonderful array of spooky events to choose from, you won’t be short of things to do in Essex this Halloween and October half term! Check out our What’s On page for more information on upcoming events.