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We'll be honest: We've had our Halloween costumes picked out for awhile (Black Widow, anyone?) but what's a costume without a fun Halloween event to wear it to? There's truly nothing better than playing dress-up, eating dozens of snacks, and carving over-the-top pumpkins. Although Halloween is a highly ranked holiday for many people, it's not a day people often rush to request time off work for. But that's probably because they've never heard of these must-attend Halloween events hosted around the country. Read on for the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parades and the Times Square Ball Drops of Halloween.
Thriller Halloween
Mark your calendars; on October 24, the 17th annual event will take place in Lexington. During the day, this event includes a marketplace, dance showcase, and parade, but at night, it turns into an apocalyptic affair. Locals and tourists alike dress up like zombies and re-enact — you guessed it — Michael Jackson's infamous "Thriller" music video in true flash-mob fashion. (Photo via Matt Goins)
Howl-O-Scream
Through October 31, Busch Gardens will be full of five haunted houses, four terror-tories, and other unsuspecting horrors. Ride the world-class roller coasters at night for a truly terrifying experience because this year's scares are unlike anything you've seen. (Photo via Howl-O-Scream)
Krewe of Boo
As if New Orleans wasn't animated and vibrant enough every other day of the year, on October 23, always-packed roadways will be filled with those participating in the city's official costume parade, complete with 3D papier-mâché and fiberglass props and floats to frighten and captivate crowds. Still not hair-raising enough? Hit up one of the city's many vampire, ghost, or voodoo tours, like this adult-centric Killers and Thrillers Tour. (Photo via Hilton New Orleans Riverside)
Haunted Halsted Halloween Parade
Sure, Christmas in Chicago, IL is oh-so-pretty, but how about Halloween? The city's October 31 parade includes a goosebump-inducing parade and costume contest. Check out what Fodor's Travel Guide calls one of the 10 Best Halloweens in the US. (photo via Northalsted)
Fantasy Fest
Turn Halloween into Halloweek at the Fantasy Fest in Key West, Florida, which takes place from October 22 until October 31. Don't mind the still-warm weather; the event's costumes, street fairs, and parades will have you shaking in your boots. To forget your fears, stop by Casa Marina's new bar HMF Sidecar Bar for some Fantasy Fest-inspired sippers. (Photo via Fantasy Fest)
Fright Fest
Six Flags all over the country are offering thrills once the sun goes down. From now through Halloween Day, get ready for haunted attractions, scare zones, and shows that put the spooky in #spookyseason. (Photo via Fright Fest)
Purge Rooftop Halloween Party
Make your Halloween night one to remember at New York's DL Rooftop for a night that's full of hip hop, reggae, and more. (Image courtesy of DL/Eventbrite)
Phillips Haunted Farm
From the last weekend of September to the last weekend in October, every Friday and Saturday night at this NC farm will be brimming with your worst nightmares come to life. From the Field of Lost Souls to the Gore House, get ready for some serious chills! (Image via Phillips Haunted Farm)
Haunted SF Ghost Hunting
Make your way through San Francisco's old Chinatown alleys (with plenty of ghost hunting gear, of course). Learn about paranormal activity, mysterious deaths, and all the local cemeteries. (Image via Viator)
What are your favorite Halloween events? Let us know @BritandCo!
This post has been updated.
