Halloween is just around the corner, and Tampa Bay has plenty of spooky events to offer. Whether you're looking for a haunted house experience or a family-friendly event, there's something for everyone. Let's explore must-do activities for Halloween in Tampa Bay.

Photo by@BusyinFlorida | Krystal L

Scream-A-Geddon

Scream-A-Geddon is a nationally recognized haunted house attraction in Dade City, Florida, just a short drive from Tampa Bay. It is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a thrilling and terrifying experience this Halloween season.

This attraction features five unique scare zones, each with its own theme and terrifying creatures. Rage 3D is my favorite, but the asylum was an awesome theme. In addition, there is a zombie paintball attraction that requires separate admission. The paintball event is DEFINITELY worth the extra price because it was seriously dark and spooky out there on that school bus as it drives you through woods to shoot glow-in-the-dark zombies.

Photo by@BusyinFlorida | Krystal L

Scream-A-Geddon also features a Monster Midway, which is the hub of the park. Visitors can enjoy carnival-style games, craft beer at Bonzo's Beer Garden, and a variety of delicious food options at the new food court. There are also plenty of photo opportunities with the park's terrifying monsters.

Get there where it opens so you have time to grab a drink and a snack before lines get busy. What I love about this event is that you really can do everything in one night (unlike other too busy Halloween events), and due to its location, everything feels even scarier. Plus, you can join in the action in some of the haunted houses and become part of the scare. Certain houses will offer glow necklaces and scare actors can bring you into the action. Don't be scared! It's actually really fun. No spoilers, but definitely give it a try.

Howl-O-Scream at Busch Gardens

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay's Howl-O-Scream is a Halloween event that takes over the entire park with haunted houses and scare zones. Plus, the rides are open, so you can zoom around on a coaster in the dark!

This separately ticketed event runs on select nights and is one of Tampa Bay's top haunted attractions. Howl-O-Scream is known for its elaborate haunted houses, which are designed to scare even the bravest of souls.

Besides the haunted houses, Howl-O-Scream features scare zones throughout the park, where guests can encounter roaming hordes of monsters and other creepy creatures.

One of the unique aspects of Howl-O-Scream is the availability of beer and other adult beverages throughout the park. Guests can enjoy a variety of craft beers and cocktails while they explore the haunted houses and scare zones.

The Haunted Carnival at Armature Works

Looking for a family-friendly Halloween event in Tampa Bay? Look no further than the Haunted Carnival at Armature Works! This annual events offers a carnival with classic rides and treats (think ferris wheels, popcorn and sweet desserts) and, after dark, top DJs! Last year they brought out Pauly D and Steve Aoki, and this year, we can look forward to Diplo, Quavo, Above & Beyond and more.

The event starts on Thursday, October 26th with the carnival and continues all weekend. It's not free. Grab your carnival tickets ahead of time online, and if you want to get close to the stage for the music, you do have to pay extra.

Photo by@BusyinFlorida | Krystal L

FrankenPride by St. Pete Pride

St. Pete Pride's Family Day is a family-friendly event that brings together thousands of LGBTQ+ youth, queer families, and allies to Central Avenue. On the 2500-2800 blocks of Central Avenue, this event kicks off at noon and runs until 5 p.m. on Sunday, October 29th. The event is a safe space for families to come together and celebrate diversity and inclusivity.

The schedule, posted on Instagram, features music, drag, dancing and more. There is also a costume contest (register from 12 pm to 2 pm the day of the event) with adult, youth and family/group categories.

There's a trick-or-treat station as well, so don't forget to bring a bucket to load up on sweets!

The event is free and open to the public, so everyone can join in on the fun.

Other Halloween Ideas in Tampa

Visit the Haunted Wharf at Sparkman Wharf at their free event that runs 5:30pm through 10:00pm on both Friday and Saturday the 27th and 28th. There's seasonal snacks, photo opportunities, and music.

The Vault of Souls is another popular haunted attraction, featuring candlelight tours and supernatural experiences. This is an exclusive party including a welcome cocktail, hors d’oeuvres and spooky sights. Join in on October 26, 27, 28, or 29th.

You might also enjoy Undead in the Water, near the Florida Aquarium, as a WWII ship transforms into a haunted house experience. It runs for 14 nights through September and October, so don't miss out!