Best Local Halloween Events in Rochester, MN

Halloween is quickly approaching, and your thoughts turn to the celebrations that can be found in the Rochester, MN area. We've compiled a list of family-friendly events -- as well as those that might be too intense for the little ones -- to highlight those that you won't want to miss this year. 

Family Friendly Events

1. Rochester Downtown Alliance Fall Fest

For the second year in a row, the Rochester Downtown Alliance Fall Fest welcomes families to Peace Plaza from 10 AM until 2 PM on Saturday, October 14, 2017. Geared for all ages, this free event features plenty of seasonal treats including pumpkins, food, a petting zoo and other activities. A Pumpkin Carving Contest is open to participants aged 12 and above with four winners each receiving a $50 gift card to a business downtown. 

2. Pumpkin Party at Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo

On October 28, 2017, at 2 PM, come to Oxbow Park and Zollman Zoo for a Pumpkin Party with a focus on the animals. In this free event, attendees can watch as a naturalist places pumpkins in select animal exhibits. Can you guess which animals will eat their pumpkins and which will play with them? 

Scary Events

3. Haunted Trolley Tour

Come join the Rochester Trolley & Tour Company for the Haunted Trolley Tours. Every Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday from now until Halloween, participants can enjoy a tour of some of the city's most haunted spots. You'll get off and on the trolley at numerous places throughout the 3.5-hour-long trip. A narrator will lead participants on spooky tours that highlight some little-known hauntings in the city. 

There are also tours on Monday, October 30 and select dates in November as well. The cost is $35 per person with reservations required. The trolley leaves the City-County Government Center parking lot promptly at 6:30 PM.

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4. Fright at the Farm

Located at Willow's Keep Farm in nearby Zumbrota is the Fright at the Farm event. There are "lights on" events from Thursday, October 19 to Saturday, October 21 and on Saturday, October 28, as well as a corn maze and pumpkin activities that are family-friendly. The primary focus of this write-up is the haunted factor that takes over the farm at night. Featuring live tour guides that help guide you through the 10,000 square-foot indoor haunt, Fright at the Farm added brand-new attractions for 2017, including Psycho Hippie Bus and The Garden of Evil. 

The haunted event is best for ages 10 and up. Children aged 13 and under must be accompanied by an adult. The event is not recommended for younger children. Tickets are $15 at the door. 

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