From silly to spooky, kooky to cultural, our lineup of Halloween activities is all over the map, literally — harvest season road trips and T rides around town can transport you to the magic of All Hallows’ Eve. From theater to visual art, crafts to cinema, music and dog parades, there’s a lot to be thrilled about during the season of thrills.
“The Rocky Horror Show”
Now through Nov. 26, Central Square Theater, Cambridge
This is the ultimate Halloween-ish horror musical comedy satire. It may also be the only Halloween-ish horror musical comedy satire. Mad scientist Dr. Frank-N-Furter goes all Dr. Frankenstein looking to create a hunk. Hyjinks and songs about sexual repression ensue. Centralsquaretheater.org
Pumpkintown
Now through Oct. 31, East Hampton, CT
Looking for a wholesome Halloween? It’s no tricks and all treats at Pumpkintown. A family-friendly outing featuring a village of over 100 Pumpkinhead people and their pets. Come to see these whimsical Pumpkinheads, stay for the apple cider donuts. pumpkintown.com
Doggone Halloween
Oct. 28, Downtown Crossing
People that look like their dogs are great. But people that dress like their dogs are even better. Boston’s biggest annual Halloween-themed pet costume returns with this contest for pups and people. Humans don’t have to dress up but there is a Best Human & Dog Duo prize. Other categories include Best Costume, Spookiest Costume and Cutest Costume. Like your dog in just a leash and collar? Show up for the pet-focused vendor village. Downtownboston.org
Day of the Dead
Oct. 29 – Nov. 2, ICA Watershed
To celebrate the 10th anniversary of the largest Day of the Dead festival and parade in New England, the Verónica Robles Cultural Center and the Institute of Contemporary Art team up for a unique exhibition of Day of the Dead altars. A score of local artists come together for an immersive Altar Exhibition at the ICA Watershed. icaboston.org
5th Annual Silent Halloween Skate Party
Oct. 29, Chez Vous Roller Skating Rink
At a silent skate… no one can hear you scream!!! Of course, that’s because you’ll be wearing headphones. This rolling party will feature three channels of music provided by DJ MannyReese, DJ Jammin, DJ Dex, DJ Big Papa and others. Soul Food, beer, wine and both skate and costume contests. facebook.com/bostonswerve
“The Howling”
Oct. 30, Brattle Theater, Cambridge
A free screening of a horror classic – this one has it all from a cult to the occult, sex to serial killers, and, of course, werewolves. Beyond the bonus of being free, the film comes with a discussion lead by Brandon Callender, an assistant professor of English at Brandeis University who specializes in Black queer and Black horror studies. Brattlefilm.org
Skalloween
Oct. 31, The Rockwell, Somerville
If your two favorite dances are skanking and the monster mash, we have a party for you. Dance the night away to all your favorite ska classics with locals putting on musical costumes. The New Limits as the Pietasters, Sorry, Ma! as The Clash, Battlemode as Gorillaz, and Pink Slip as No Doubt — “Spiderwebs” is a perfect Halloween song already. Therockwell.org
“Young Frankenstein” & “An American Werewolf in London”
Oct. 31, Coolidge Corner Theatre
Scary funny and scary scary. Epic and outrageous twists on Frankenstein and the Wolfman come to life from directors Mel Brooks and John Landis. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll never think about “Bad Moon Rising” the same way again. Wear a costume for a chance to win a door prize! Coolidge.org
A Halloween getaway to Pumpkintown in East Hampton, CT offers a family friendly take on the holiday. (Photo pumpkintown.com)
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