Cape May in October transforms into a haunted haven, offering visitors a chance to experience thrilling and eerie adventures. The town’s rich history and Victorian charm create the perfect backdrop for ghostly encounters and Halloween festivities.
Harry’s Ocean Bar & Grille Boo Bar
Ahoy, mates! From October 3rd to November 1st, Harry’s Ocean Bar & Grille is transforming into a haunted pirate’s den for its second annual Halloween themed pop up, BOO BAR. Step into a thrilling world of pirate decor, eerie lighting, and haunted surprises wherever you turn. The dining room will transport you to a place you’ve only seen in your Halloween dreams (or maybe your nightmares). Sip on spooky signature drinks that are as fun to admire as they are to consume. With a menu full of frightfully delicious food and cocktails, this is the Halloween hangout you won’t want to miss! Grab your mates and chart a course for BOO BAR, if you dare!
Harry’s 2nd Annual October Stein Hoist Event
Join us at Harry’s Ocean Bar & Grille for our first-ever Stein Hoist event Saturday, October 18th, proudly sponsored by Sam Adams! Think you have what it takes to hold your stein the longest? Test your strength and endurance as you compete for the ultimate bragging rights and awesome prizes.
Rules of The Game
Contestants must hold their stein arm straight out, parallel to the floor, with their elbow locked.
Spilling, lowering your arm, or bending your elbow will result in disqualification.
The stein must be held by the handle with one hand and cannot be switched to the other hand.Sign-ups will be held when you arrive at Harry’s.
Sam Adams will be flowing all evening long, so don’t miss your chance to enjoy this iconic brew while cheering on the competitors! Exciting giveaways and grand prizes await the champions of the evening. See you there!
Haunted Attractions at the Emlen Physick Estate
The Emlen Physick Estate, Cape May’s premier Halloween destination, offers a variety of spooky attractions for thrill-seekers. Visitors can experience the “Voices from Beyond” tour, where they hear actual spirit voices captured over the past decade. This paranormal adventure allows guests to view historical photos alongside apparition images and learn about ghost-hunting equipment. The estate also hosts the “Phantoms of the Physick Estate” event, immersing attendees in Victorian-era horror stories that unfold room by room. For a less intense experience, the Halloween 56 Miniature Model Exhibit showcases nearly 100 miniature spooky houses and characters. The grounds transform into Scarecrow Alley, featuring gruesome and funny scarecrows that visitors can vote for. These attractions make the Emlen Physick Estate a must-visit for Halloween events in NJ.
Spooky Tours Around Cape May
Cape May offers a variety of eerie tours for those seeking Halloween events NJ. Visitors can embark on the Ghosts of Cape May Trolley Tour, where they hear tales of hauntings uncovered by renowned psychic medium Craig McManus. The Historic Haunts Combo Tour combines a trolley ride through the Historic District with a visit to the Physick House Museum. Guides compare Victorian spirit contact methods with modern paranormal investigation techniques. For a more immersive experience, the Graveyard, Ghosts & Mansion Combo Tour takes guests to the Cold Spring Presbyterian Cemetery, where they can listen to electronic voice phenomena recordings. These tours provide a chilling glimpse into Cape May’s haunted history, making them perfect Halloween happenings for thrill-seekers and history buffs alike.
Halloween Parades and Costume Events
Cape May’s Annual Halloween Parade is a highlight of the Halloween events NJ offers. Scheduled for Sunday, October 19, 2025, at 3 PM, the parade route begins at Perry Street and Carpenters Lane, winding through the town to end at Cape May MAC. Participants can register for free, with judging taking place at 2:30 PM. The parade features various age divisions and special awards, including categories like Best Witch, Funniest, and Most Original.
Family-Friendly Halloween Activities
Cape May offers a variety of Halloween events NJ families can enjoy together. The Emlen Physick Estate transforms into a Halloween wonderland with its Scarecrow Alley, where visitors can vote for their favorite creations. On October 31, the estate hosts a Trick or Treat event from 5-7 pm, featuring spooky music and treats for little ghosts and goblins. The Cape May County Zoo’s “Boo at the Zoo” on October 25th includes activities, games, and a costume contest. For creative fun, families can participate in pumpkin painting at the Cold Spring Village Pumpkin Festival.
Conclusion
Cape May’s Halloween events offer a unique blend of spooky thrills and family-friendly fun, making it a top destination for Halloween enthusiasts in New Jersey. From the eerie tours at the Emlen Physick Estate to the festive parades and costume contests, the historic seaside town has something to offer for everyone. The mix of paranormal experiences, historical insights, and creative activities creates an atmosphere that’s both entertaining and educational.
To sum up, Cape May’s Halloween celebrations have a strong influence on the town’s autumn appeal, drawing visitors from all over to enjoy its Victorian charm with a spooky twist. The variety of events caters to different age groups and interests, ensuring that both thrill-seekers and families can find something to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to explore haunted history, show off your costume, or simply soak in the festive atmosphere, Cape May’s Halloween events provide a memorable way to celebrate the season.
Does Cape May get decorated for Halloween?
Yes, Cape May embraces the Halloween spirit, particularly at the Emlen Physick Estate. During Halloween, the estate features Scarecrow Alley, where visitors can enjoy a variety of creatively themed scarecrows and even vote for their favorites.
What are some recommended activities in Cape May, NJ during October and November?
In October, Cape May offers a plethora of activities including exploring its Victorian architecture, climbing the Cape May Lighthouse, bird watching, enjoying the Cape May Exit Zero Jazz Festival, taking ghost tours, visiting local wineries and breweries, and going whale and dolphin watching.
Where is the world’s largest Halloween festival held?
The largest Halloween festival globally is the Salem Haunted Happenings in Salem, US. This month-long festival, a tradition for over 40 years, draws more than half a million visitors annually with its extensive range of events.
Does Cape May NJ have Halloween celebrations?
Yes, Cape May NJ hosts numerous Halloween events each October, ranging from night-time parades and haunted houses to spooky movie screenings, ghost tours, and pumpkin picking activities suitable for both adults and children.