Local Halloween Fun in Baton Rouge
Want to do more than just trick-or-treat? Check out these fun fall events happening around town:
Boo at the Zoo (BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo) – Even though you’re strolling among flamingos and tigers, Boo at the Zoo captures the cozy charm of fall right here in Baton Rouge. It’s joyful, easygoing, seasonal fun, without a cloud of spookiness hanging over you. You’ll find perfect photo ops, kid-approved activities, and your favorite neighbors all in one place. A family favorite with festive photo ops, animal enrichments, treat stations, lots of costumes, and entertainment at the Capital One Pavillion. Dates, times, and pricing can be found here.
Mrs. Heather’s Pumpkin Patch – Whether you’re looking for hands-on activities for the kids or just a day filled with fresh air and laughter, there’s something for everyone. Little ones can burn off energy on the jumping pillow, tunnel slide, pony hops, or even by rolling down the hill. Families will love exploring the corn maze, hay maze, spider web, and nature trail together, while learning moments pop up along the way, like discovering how pumpkins grow, visiting with bees, or even “milking” a cow. Creative kids can enjoy face painting, painting a pumpkin on weekends, or snapping a picture with Spookley the Square Pumpkin and other cartoon characters. Classic games like duck racing, hopscotch, bean bag toss, and seesaws add to the fun. And don’t forget all the photo ops… from weighing and measuring your pumpkin to capturing the perfect fall family shot, you’ll have plenty of memories to take home. Pack a picnic lunch, take a ride on the merry-go-round, and soak up every bit of fall magic! Dates, times, and pricing can be found here.
13th Gate Haunted House – If you’re looking for Halloween thrills with a side of theatrical magic, let me introduce you to The 13th Gate Haunted House, right here in downtown Baton Rouge. Widely acclaimed as one of America’s top haunted attractions, this experience is more than just jump scares, it’s like stepping into a Hollywood horror set.
A Few Things to Know Before You Go: This is a serious haunt… dark, intense, and not meant for the faint of heart. Not ideal for young children or those sensitive to dramatic effects. Expect impressive production, this is not your usual walk-through. It’s designed to thrill, recreate memories, and give you stories to share. Dates, times, and tickets can be found here.
Corn Maze at Burden Museum & Gardens – Every Saturday through October (plus a couple of special Sundays), the LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens transforms into a vibrant autumn playground designed for the whole family. Begin your experience with a winding journey through a sprawling 3+ acre corn maze, great for all ages and just the right amount of challenge. Don’t miss the hayride to a blooming sunflower field and satsuma grove, playful stops at the corn crib and petting farm, and chances to pick your perfect pumpkin.
Want a twist on classic fall fun? On October 25, the Night Maze invites you to roam the maze by glow stick while roasting marshmallows, enjoying live music, and lighting up the evening with coziness.
Tickets are pre-sale only and move fast, so grab yours early! Get your tickets here.
Fifolet Halloween Festival – The Fifolet Halloween Festival is one of Baton Rouge’s most spirited traditions, a 4-day celebration packed with fun for every age. Each day brings a new adventure, with a mix of family-friendly (and even free!) events.
The main highlight? The Fifolet Halloween Parade on October 18 at 4 p.m.! The Baton Rouge Food Bank truck will be leading the way, collecting non-perishable food donations, so it’s a perfect chance to give back while soaking up the fun.
That same day, you can also enjoy the Fifolet Arts Market, where local artists, makers, and non-profits share their creativity. Expect live music, entertainment, costumed characters, and plenty of kid-friendly activities. Plus, the first 100 kids will score a free Halloween book, thanks to 10/31 Consortium! With tasty food vendors and a lively beer tent, it’s the perfect way to spend a fall afternoon.
The rest of the festival rounds out with a Zombie Pub Crawl, Halloween Ball, Fifolet 5K, and even an Awards Brunch. There’s truly something for everyone, so mark your calendars and get ready for one unforgettable Halloween inspired weekend! All the details can be found here.
Bluebonnet Swamp’s Haunted Hikes (BREC’s Bluebonnet Swamp) – Looking for Halloween fun that’s just the right amount of spooky for the kids? The Haunted Hikes are made with little ones in mind - no jump scares here! As you stroll the swamp trail, you’ll stop by educational stations to learn about snakes, insects, rats, and other “creepy critters” in a fun, hands-on way. Afterward, wind your way through the Haunted Maze to discover themed arts & crafts, games, and a more. Since this is an after-dark adventure, don’t forget to bring a flashlight and make sure all kiddos are with an adult. Click here for registration details!
There’s no shortage of ways to celebrate spooky season close to home. The best part? These events aren’t just about pumpkins and costumes, they’re about creating memories with the people you love, right here in our community. So grab your favorite sweater (even if it’s not 60 degrees!) and get ready to soak up all the fun this Halloween season in Baton Rouge.
- Cherie
