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 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.

Join us for the Ox-Bow Goes to Heck event on October 21, where the famed school of the arts will be hosting a day of family-friendly frights on their campus, including haunted cabins, a Spooky Trail, Dark Carnival, games, crafts, and more. A special Bloody Brunch takes place on October 22 prepared by guest chef Stella Brown, concluding with an hour-long exclusive tour of Ox-Bow’s hallowed (and perhaps haunted) grounds. On the evening of October 27, attend Ox-Bow’s Scary Supper, a multi-course meal themed for this bewitching time of the year. 

Back by popular demand, the Saugatuck Center for the Arts will once again be hosting A Bright Night on October 27, a free celebration that kicks off the Halloween weekend. This all-ages party, featuring exhibition artist Michael Belmore, is inspired by the beauty of nature, the joy in community, and the creativity that can be found all around us. Stationed throughout the entire campus, guests can partake in charming activities and special moments while enjoying a mix of specially curated music on the wireless headphones provided for the silent disco. 

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 27-29, 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 60-minute self-guided Path of Shadows candlelight tours which provide explorers access to the mansion, carriage house, and grounds during the dark of night.  

For those who appreciate an immersive spooky experience, visit the Allegan Forest Museum of Campfire Stories, a new local museum dedicated to bringing the area's creepiest urban legends and campfire stories to life. Learn about the lore of the Melon Heads of Saugatuck, The Demon Tree, The Yellow Motel, Camp Lakewood, Satan's Tomb, and The Road of the Dead and then receive the GPS coordinates to explore the locations on your own in the Allegan Forest. And don’t forget your flashlights! 

On October 28, bring the family for the Halloween Festival and Downtown Trick or Treat where downtown Saugatuck businesses will be passing out candy. Then, during the evening of October 28, join us in downtown Douglas for 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: A Bad Barbie Bash at The Dunes Resort on October 28. 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 Boos Cruise down the Kalamazoo River for adults only on October 28 with music, drink specials, a costume contest, and a few other tricks or treats. October 29 is the Kid’s Halloween Cruise offered at both 1 pm and 3:00 pm. Come in costume or as you are. There will be treats for the kids.