Halloween becomes its own treat for visitors to the Saugatuck/Douglas area with unique events, including spooky trails and costumed cruises. From traditional community events for kids—and even pets—to our famous Douglas Halloween Parade for Adults featuring an extravaganza of creativity in costuming and performances, the spookiest time of year also becomes the most special time here.

Grab your EMF detector and infrared thermometer and check out the paranormal activity happening at the Felt Mansion. Considered one of the most haunted attractions in the state, the Felt Mansion has been home to unexplained happenings throughout the years, including the presence of shadowy figures and doors that open and close themselves. On Friday-Sunday, October 28-30, the Felt Estate will be offering Hauntings & History Nights. A presentation will be provided where you can learn more about the history of the estate and hear about the paranormal occurrences from people who have experienced them firsthand. There are also self-guided Candlelight Tours which provide explorers access to the mansion, carriage house, and grounds during the dark of night.

Join us for the Ox-Bow Goes to Hell event during Halloween weekend, October 28-29, where the famed school of the arts will be hosting haunted cabins, a Spooky Trail, Dark Carnival, and a Graveyard Rave in their meadow where you can dance ‘til you're dead. The Spooky Trail is family-friendly for all ages, but please be aware that some parts may be scary for our younger guests. Specifically for the kiddos is the Ox-Bow Goes to Heck event on Friday, October 28, with haunted craft-making, carnival games, and candy galore.

Celebrate with the Saugatuck Center For The Arts on Friday, October 28 as they kick off Halloween weekend with their Bright Night event, which includes a free all-ages Dance Party.  Under the pavilion, guests can join the silent disco dance party using supplied headphones where you can tune into one of three DJ channels. The SCA Joy Squad (Education Team) will also be leading all-ages hands-on activities to add even more joy to this celebration.

Don’t miss the annual Hallowine event at the J. Petter Galleries on Saturday, October 29. Taste some wine, listen to live music, and meet visiting artists Helen Gotlib and Dylan Strzynski from 4 pm-6 pm. Costumes are highly encouraged.

During the evening in downtown Douglas on October 29 will be our renowned Halloween Parade for Adults. The party starts at 10 pm with a Giant Pumpkin King rising from the ashes to officially commence the festivities. For years, this outrageous event has drawn thousands of spectators from around the country who come to gawk and marvel at the unleashed creativity. Anyone in costume can feel free to strut their stuff down the parade route but be sure to leave the kids at home for this mature-themed event. 

After the parade, get ready for the biggest Halloween party in the area with Nightmare on Blue Star Presents: Sin City at The Dunes Resort on October 29. Sing Karaoke, dance the night away, and enter the midnight  costume contest. This wickedly wonderful event is for big ghouls and boys only.

For a ghoulishly good time, the Star of Saugatuck paddlewheel boat is offering a 90-minute themed Boo’s Cruise down the Kalamazoo River for adults only on October 29 with music, drink specials, a costume contest, and a few other tricks or treats. October 30 is the Kid’s Halloween Cruise offered at both 1 pm and 3 pm. Come in costume or as you are. There will be treats for the kids.