Beyond the falling leaves and changing temperatures, autumn is the season where ghostly attractions rise from the dead once again. And with DC earning its reputation as a haunted haven in years past, we’ve got some frighteningly good news: Halloween is officially back, and with it — plenty of treats (and tricks). From classic frights to spirited distractions and family-friendly fun, here are all the ways to make the most of the spookiest holiday around.

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Trek The Field of Screams

Rated the number one scariest attraction in the DC area, Field of Screams is a one-stop-shop for your annual fright fix. The two-part terror destination includes the Super Screams Haunted Trail, a walk through a haunted forest and campground, and the Slaughter Factory, a meat processing plant with an owner gone mad. Tickets start at $50. Take a spin at axe throwing and zombie brain smashing with an enhanced Total Terror pack.

Haunt The Nightmare in Navy Yard

Fittingly, this open-air pop-up celebration features an open bar, live music, and scary good sustenance. Meanwhile, special effects, laser lighting, and animatronics take this eerie experience to a whole new level. Host Scorpio Entertainment is gearing the event toward vaccinated and mask-wearing individuals. Tickets start at $45.

Attend a Halloween Ball at The Red Bear Brewing Company

What screams Halloween more than drinks and drag? Head to this NoMa-based craft brewery to catch performances from Bombalicious Eklavar, Jayvon Love, King Perka Sexxx and Sextia N’Eight. Come dressed up as your favorite super villain and stick around after the show to take the dance floor yourself. Full details available here.

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➤ For ideas on how to enjoy all that DC has to offer be sure to read:

• Things to Do in DC: Summer Edition
• Things to Do in DC: Winter Edition
• See Our Extensive Neighborhood Guides

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Dine with Día de los Muertos at dLeña

This year, Chef Richard Sandoval is bringing the Day of the Dead to life with the flavors of marigold, the flower widely used in celebrations. His upscale Mexican restaurant is serving exclusive themed cocktails and a marigold margarita alongside fine dining dishes like chile ancho-pork belly stew and braised short-rib paired with an orange blossom purée. And last but not least: finish off your meal with pumpkin cake with piloncillo sauce, spiced pepitas, and cinnamon ice cream.

Visit Air & Scare

This just in: Air & Scare is back and better than ever. In honor of Halloween, the annual event is featuring a mix of educational festivities that include both virtual and in-person options. Head to “Air & Scare Outside” for in-person trick-or-treating, crafts, and a costume contest. Prefer to stay inside? Download festive activities via Air & Scare At Home — from stencils to virtual costume contests and more.

Embark on a Halloween Hunt

Hosted by the storied (aka haunted) O Street Mansion, this is far from your average scavenger hunt. Brave souls will have the chance to explore the mansion’s 100+ rooms and 70 secret doors — all decked out with scares — while searching for hidden gems.

Get Lost in a Corn Maze

It wouldn’t be Halloween without some good, old fashioned ‘corn mazing’…at least, according to Maryland’s most popular maze destination, that is. Visitors descend from all over the DMV to get lost in this eight-acre corn maze, named one of the 25 best to visit this fall, and to take a hay ride, visit a petting zoo, or even fly on a zip line while they’re at it. Whatever your favorite fall farm activity may be, The Maryland Corn Maze has something for all to enjoy.

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➤ Click here for more things to do in DC this fall!