Discover Why Alexandria VA is the Ultimate Halloween Destination

Posted by The Shannon Group – Your Local Experts in the Alexandria Real Estate Market

As the leaves turn vibrant shades of crimson and gold along the Potomac River, there's no place we'd rather be than right here in Alexandria, Virginia. We're the Shannon Group, a team of passionate Realtors who've called this charming waterfront city home for years. We know every cobblestone street, hidden alley, and waterfront view that makes Alexandria not just a place to live, but a living, breathing storybook of history and heart. And when autumn arrives—especially with Halloween on the horizon—our town transforms into an enchanting blend of eerie elegance and festive fun. If you're on the fence about where to spend your Fall getaway, let us convince you: Alexandria in October is pure magic. Pack your bags, grab your coziest sweater (and maybe a witch's hat), and come experience why this is the season to fall in love with Alex—and perhaps even consider calling it home.

The Allure of Alexandria in Fall: A Perfect Backdrop for Spooky Shenanigans

Picture this: Gas-lit lamps flickering along King Street, the scent of spiced cider wafting from boutique shops, and the gentle rustle of leaves underfoot as you stroll past 18th-century rowhouses that whisper tales of George Washington and colonial intrigue. Alexandria's Old Town isn't just historic—it's haunted by its past in the most captivating way. Fall amplifies this allure, with cooler breezes off the river and a calendar packed with events that celebrate the season's harvest vibes alongside its ghoulish side.

Whether you're a history buff, a family seeking wholesome thrills, or a night owl chasing adult adventures, our city delivers. And as locals who guide families and professionals through the Alexandria market daily, we can attest: There's something profoundly special about sharing these moments in a place where timeless charm meets modern comfort. Visiting now might just spark that "I could live here" epiphany—after all, with median home prices reflecting incredible value and neighborhoods like Del Ray or the Waterfront offering unbeatable walkability, why not make the magic permanent?

Must-Attend Fall Events: Your October Itinerary Awaits

October 2025 in Alexandria is a whirlwind of festivals, parades, and frightfully fun gatherings that capture the essence of the season. From family-friendly daytime escapades to evening chills, here's a curated snapshot of upcoming highlights to get you planning your trip:

• Alexandria Fall Festival (October 5): Kick off the month with a vibrant community bash at 5067 Seminary Road from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Expect live music, artisan vendors, pumpkin carving, hayrides, and local food trucks—perfect for soaking up that crisp autumn air while mingling with friendly Alexandrians.

• Housing Alexandria Fall Festival (October 9): Head to The Garden Alexandria for an afternoon of neighborhood networking, craft brews, and seasonal bites. It's a low-key way to connect with locals and discover why our community spirit is as warm as mulled wine.

• Ethiopian Fall Festival (October 12): Dive into cultural celebration at this joyful event in Old Town, featuring traditional music, dance, authentic cuisine, and family activities. It's a delicious reminder that Fall in Alexandria is as diverse and flavorful as its residents.

• Halloween Stampede (October 18): Lace up for this spirited 5K run/walk through scenic Carlyle, complete with costumes, trick-or-treat stations, and post-race festivities. Runners and spectators alike will love the festive energy—think zombies jogging alongside superheroes!

• Boo-Fest All Ages (October 24): Hosted by the Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities department, this evening event from 6:30–8:30 p.m. offers themed games, costume contests, and neighborhood meetups for $9 a pop. It's the ideal pre-Halloween warm-up to get everyone in the spooky spirit.

• Halloween Parade (Late October): Cap off the month with the annual parade down King Street, where floats, marching bands, and elaborately costumed locals create a spectacle straight out of a Tim Burton film. Exact details drop soon, but mark your calendar—it's a quintessential Alexandria tradition.

And if you're extending your stay into early November, don't miss the Alexandria Fall-O-Ween on November 1 at John Carlyle Square Park—a massive family-friendly extravaganza from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. with games, treats, and live entertainment. For the 21+ crowd, the Alexandria Halloween Bar Crawl that same evening promises costumed revelry across our vibrant pubs.

These events aren't just happenings—they're invitations to weave yourself into the fabric of Alexandria's Fall tapestry.

Unearth the Eerie: A Ghost Tour You Won't Forget

No Halloween visit to Alexandria is complete without delving into its spectral secrets. As experts who've wandered these streets by daylight and dusk, we wholeheartedly recommend a lantern-led ghost tour through Old Town. Led by costumed storytellers, these 90-minute walks reveal chilling tales of colonial phantoms, tragic lovers, and Civil War apparitions haunting spots like Gadsby's Tavern and the Carlyle House. Our top pick? The Ghost and Graveyard Tour by Alexandria Colonial Tours, starting at 221 King Street—it's equal parts history lesson and hair-raising adventure, perfect for date nights or group outings. Book ahead; spots fill faster than a witch's cauldron at midnight!

Why Wait? Make Alexandria Your Fall Obsession

At the Shannon Group, we've seen countless visitors arrive for a weekend and leave plotting their move—drawn in by the unbeatable blend of history, hospitality, and seasonal splendor that defines Alexandria. This Halloween, let our city cast its spell on you. Whether you're chasing ghosts by moonlight or carving pumpkins by the river, you'll find Fall here is unforgettable.

Ready to plan your trip? Dive into our events calendar at VisitAlexandria.com and snag those ghost tour tickets today. And if the allure proves too strong (as it often does), reach out to us at the Shannon Group—we're here to help you find your perfect piece of this haunted haven. Happy haunting, and see you soon in Alex!

Contact The Shannon Group today for insider tips on Alexandria living: [email protected] | 703.402.3659