Albuquerque transforms into a haven for thrill-seekers and Halloween enthusiasts each fall, offering a variety of spooky events that cater to all ages.
Whether you’re seeking jump scares, haunted history, or eerie escapism, the city has something chilling for everyone. Here are the top five spooky things to do in Albuquerque this Halloween season, plus a few honorable mentions to keep the spooky spirit alive!
- Cabin 2.0 at New Mexico Escape Room
Return to the infamous cabin of the “Simon Says” killer in this thrilling escape room sequel. Despite the killer being locked away, new disappearances have surfaced, and it’s up to you and your team of FBI investigators to search the cabin for clues and stop a copycat—or accomplice—before it’s too late. With high-stakes puzzles and a race against time, Cabin 2.0 delivers intense scares and suspense for those
brave enough to enter.
Location: New Mexico Escape Room
Dates: Throughout October
Link: https://nmescaperoom.com/scenarios/the-cabin-v2/
2.The Haunted Scarecrow: American Horror Theater
This October, the Haunted Scarecrow Entertainment is taking over the Historic Lobo Theater with American Horror Theater! Located in the theater itself the haunt staff has pulled out all of the seats to deliver a multi-level haunted experience constructed just for the month of October! Each eerie corridor and level is filled with all of New Mexico’s classic horror hh tales come to life along with new ones sure to send chills down your spine. Flee from the embrace of La Llorona and watch out for the butcher’s hungry cleaver as you rush to the exit!
This haunt is all-ages and the no-touch environment ensures a safe yet immersive experience, delivering heart-pounding thrills to both young and old. Haunted Scarecrow’s American Horror Theater is one horror experience you don’t want to miss.
This year Haunted Scarecrow Entertainment is excited to promote the talented local horror mystery author LJ Aldon! Grab your copy of her book the Riddle of the Haunted Hoard, the first novel in the new Pucci Riddle Mystery series at the haunt!
Location: The Historic Lobo Theater – 3013 Central Ave NE, Albuquerque, NM 87106
Dates: Wednesday through Saturday all October and the entire week of Halloween from October 28th – Nov. 2nd.
Link: https://www.hauntedhousenewmexico.com
- The Sky Railway Fright Train
Climb aboard the Sky Railway Fright Train for a journey through the dark, haunted desert. This spooky ride combines storytelling with eerie landscapes, transporting passengers into a world where ghosts, ghouls, and legends come to life. As you ride the rails, actors and storytellers will send chills down your spine with
their creepy tales, while mysterious figures appear in the shadows. For an extra dose of fright, choose the late-night rides—rumored to be the most haunted!
Location: Sky Railway, Santa Fe
Dates: Select dates in October
Link: https://www.skyrailway.com/train-rides/fright-train/
- Dark Red Horror Film Festival
For horror film aficionados, the Dark Red Horror Film Festival is a must-attend event. Held annually, this festival showcases a selection of indie horror films that push the boundaries of fear, suspense, and the macabre. From psychological thrillers to slasher flicks, this festival covers the entire horror spectrum. Meet the filmmakers, participate in Q&A sessions, and immerse yourself in the world of horror cinema. Whether you’re a horror novice or a hardcore fan, there’s something here to terrify you.
Location: National Hispanic Cultural Center/Guild Cinema
Dates: Mid-October
Link: https://www.darkredhorror.com/
- Spooktacular Balloon Glow
One of Albuquerque’s most unique Halloween even
ts, the Spooktacular Balloon Glow features hot air balloons lit up against the night sky. Dressed-up pilots and balloon crews welcome trick-or-treaters as they glow their balloons in eerie colors and patterns. This family-friendly event offers live music, a costume contest, and plenty of candy for the little ones.
Location: Balloon Fiesta Park
Date: October 25-27
Link: https://azspooktacular.com/
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Honorable Mentions
McCall’s Pumpkin Patch
While McCall’s is best known for its family-friendly pumpkin patch, corn maze, and hayrides, by nightfall, the Haunted Farm takes over, transforming the space into a chilling destination with haunted houses, terrifying trails, and scare actors ready to make you scream. This dual experience makes it a must-visit for both families and thrill-seekers alike.
Location: Moriarty, NM
Dates: September 23–October 31
Link: https://mccallpumpkinpatch.com/
Neon Nightmare Halloween Party at Effex Nightclub
For those looking for a Halloween celebration filled with neon lights and bass-pumping beats, Effex Nightclub’s Neon Nightmare is the place to be. Dress up in your most creative costumes, enjoy spooky-themed cocktails, and dance the night away to some of the best DJs in Albuquerque. This event is the perfect blend of Halloween spookiness and nightlife fun.
Location: Effex Nightclub
Date: October 31
Link: https://abq-live.com/event/neon-nightmare-halloween-night-bash/
Old Town Ghost Tours
Albuquerque’s Old Town is famous for its ghostly legends and haunted history. Old Town Ghost Tours offers a guided walk through the historic streets, where you’ll hear eerie tales of restless spirits, unsolved mysteries, and sightings of apparitions that still roam the area. These tours are led by knowledgeable guides w
ho combine history and the supernatural for a spine-tingling experience. The ambiance of Old Town at night adds an extra layer of spooky charm that will make you think twice about walking those streets alone afterward.
Location: Old Town Albuquerque
Dates: Nightly throughout October
Link: https://www.abqtours.fun/
The Haunting at Los Poblanos
Step into a world of haunted elegance at Los Poblanos Historic Inn for an intimate Halloween evening filled with ghost stories and historical haunts. Los Poblanos, one of Albuquerque’s most beautiful and historic estates, offers a candle-lit ghost tour of the grounds, where you’ll hear chilling tales of the estate’s past residents and ghostly visitors. Afterward, enjoy a spooky cocktail by the fire in this atmospheric setting.
Location: Los Poblanos Historic Inn
Dates: Select dates in October
This Halloween, Albuquerque offers a range of spooky attractions to keep you entertained, from haunted houses and ghost tours to immersive theater and film festivals. Whether you’re looking to be scared out of your wits or just want to celebrate the season with family-friendly fun, there’s something for everyone. Happy haunting!
Article By ABQLive Staff
Photos Courtesy of New Mexico Escape Room, Haunted Scarecrow, and Sky Railway
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