Free Halloween Events Dominate Boston Weekend, ICA Charges $150 for Magic Party

Boston’s Halloween economy this week is split between free public access and premium adult experiences. The city offers a dense schedule of no-cost activities, but specific venues charge entry fees for exclusive events. This divide creates distinct pricing tiers for residents planning their weekend.

The Institute of Contemporary Art is the most expensive option in the lineup. Its annual Halloween party, titled “It’s Magic,” runs from 8:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. on October 31. Members pay $125, while non-members pay $150. The price includes an open bar, a vegetarian buffet, and desserts. The event is strictly for adults over 21. Attendees are asked to dress in “dark elegance.”

The Boston Children’s Museum also charges for its adult-only Halloween night. Titled “A Nightmare at the Museum,” the event takes place on October 30 from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Tickets start at $30, plus service charges. The program includes trick-or-treating, craft activities, and a costume contest. A food truck and cocktail bars are on site.

Most other events are free to the public. Chelsea hosts a series of outdoor movie screenings at Chelsea Square. The city uses a 9-by-16-foot LED screen for these films. “Minions & Monsters” shows on October 27. “Coco” airs on October 29, closing the Autumn in the Square season. “Hocus Pocus” plays on October 30 at 6:15 p.m. Attendees are advised to bring blankets or chairs.

East Boston features two free attractions. The “Nightmare on Moore Street” haunted house is open nightly until November 1. It is free to view the decorations, but a live-actor walkthrough is available on Halloween night. That walk-through is recommended for teens and adults. A free Latin dance class also meets every Tuesday at the East Boston Social Centers. The session runs from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. and accepts voluntary donations.

Community events fill the rest of the week. West End House offers a free Trunk or Treat event on October 29. Its haunted house entry costs a minimum of $5. Cambridge’s Central Square Branch Library screens the movie “Sinners” on October 29 at 6:30 p.m. The screening is for adults and includes popcorn. Chelsea’s Trunk or Treat event on October 30 runs from 4:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

October 31 brings large public gatherings. The Pumpkin Stroll at Boston Public Market and The Greenway runs from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Costumed participants can ride the Greenway Carousel for free. Somerville hosts a Halloween Block Party and Pet Spooktacular at Chuckie Harris Park from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. The BLAIR project holds a music event at City Hall Plaza from 6:00 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. featuring local women artists.

The week concludes with a Day of the Dead celebration at Bow Market in Somerville. Organized by Amantolli and Taquisimo, the event runs from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on November 1. It features a community ofrenda, traditional Mexican food, and local vendors. The event is free to attend.