Best Halloween Festivals in Toronto (Boo at the Zoo & More)

Once the pumpkins hit every doorstep and costumes start filling up the shops, you know Halloween season has officially taken over Toronto. The city turns into one big playground for spooky fun—haunted trails, themed parties, and family-friendly fests popping up everywhere. It’s that perfect mix of chills and excitement that makes October such a fun month to get out. That’s why this guide to the best Halloween festivals in Toronto rounds up the top events you’ll love to check out.

Heads up: Since these details can change fast, always double-check the event’s official website or social media before you go. Also, remember that while entry is free, things like food, drinks, or special activities might have their own price tags or require a separate RSVP.

Best Halloween Festivals in Toronto

Halloween Nights of Lights

*Photo via* *@liavely_* *and* *@nightsoflightsto* */ Instagram*

Let there be (creepy) light. This fan-favourite returns with 1.5 million LED and RGB lights, all perfectly synced to Halloween tunes. Also, expect new installations, carnival rides, and a scavenger hunt.

When: Until November 1, 2025
Where: CF Sherway Gardens (25 The West Mall, Etobicoke)
Tickets: Click here.
Website: https://nightsoflights.ca
Best For: Families and couples.

BooFest

If you want to feel like Halloween threw a block party, BooFest is it. There’s a haunted house, carnival games, tasty treats, and spooktacular decorations.

When: October 25-26, 2025: Assembly Park (80 Interchange Way, Vaughan) and Cloverdale Mall (250 The East Mall, Etobicoke)
Tickets: $5 Admission + Rides are separate
Website: https://www.boofest.ca
Best For: Families and foodies.

Riverside Halloween Fest

Riverside Halloween Fest takes over Joel Weeks Park with pumpkin decorating, a haunted house, face painting, and even a dog costume contest. So, prepare for squeals, wagging tails, and way too many photos on your phone.

When: October 26, 2025
Where: 10 Thompson Street Toronto
Tickets: Free admission. RSVP here.
Website: https://riverside-to.com
Best For: Families, pet owners.

Pumpkinville

Thousands of pumpkins and glowing sculptures? That’s Pumpkinville. It’s part art exhibit, part light show, and totally made for your camera roll.

When: Until November 1, 2025
Where: CF Sherway Gardens (25 The West Mall, Etobicoke)
Tickets: Free with Halloween Nights of Lights admission or available separately
Website: https://www.pumpkinville.ca
Best For: Couples and families.

Halloween Boo Barn

The Boo Barn keeps it simple but fun with pumpkin carving, crafts, face painting, and all the fall atmosphere. It’s free (just bring a food donation), and yes, you get to keep your pumpkin seeds.

When: October 25-26, 2025
Where: Riverdale Farm (201 Winchester Street, Toronto)
Tickets: Free admission
Website: https://riverdalefarmtoronto.ca
Best For: Families.

Zamna Festival Toronto

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If you’d rather dance than carve pumpkins, Zamna Festival offers epic sound design, wild lights, and an all-night energy that’ll haunt your playlists for weeks. Just swap your costume for something rave-friendly.

When: October 31-November 1, 2025
Where: The International Centre
Tickets: Click here.
Website: https://zamnafestival.com
Best For: Party lovers and music fans.

Boo at the Zoo

*Photo via* *@thetorontozoo* */ Instagram*

Halloween goes wild at the Toronto Zoo. Meet costumed staff handing out treats, groove to monster mash music, and say hi to gibbons and tigers during special enrichment hours.

When: October 25-26, 2025
Where: The Toronto Zoo (2000 Meadowvale Road, Toronto)
Tickets: Zoo admission
Website: https://www.torontozoo.com
Best For: Families with little ones and animal lovers.

SSOD’s 4th Annual Halloween Fest

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End the week with some rhythm and fright at SSOD’s Annual Halloween Fest. There’s dancing, games, crafts, and live performances.

When: October 25, 2025
Where: 356 Windermere Avenue, Toronto
Tickets: Free admission
Website: https://swanseaschoolofdance.com
Best For: Families and kids who love to move and groove.

Festivals are fun, but what about the real scares? For the ultimate thrill, don’t miss our full breakdown of the most terrifying attractions: Your Guide to the Spookiest Haunted Houses and Ghost Tours in Toronto.

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