Fall into Spooky Season in West Volusia

Monsters on MainStreet in Downtown DeLand closes the entire boulevard for safe trick-or-treating, with local shops and restaurants handing out some of the best treats around—no tricks!

When autumn leaves arrive in West Volusia, there is something more than the scent of pumpkin spice and the promise of spine-tingling adventures in the air. Here, “spooky season” takes small town charm and blends it with goosebump worthy thrills, offering something for everyone from history buffs and ghost hunters to costume loving kids and night owl partygoers.

For those who want a dash of fitness in-between candy sessions, lace up for the Central 28 Monster Mash n’ Dash 5K.

Step into the otherworldly at the Hotel Cassadaga during the annual Cassadaga Haunted Attraction, where flickering lights and ghostly tales set the mood. Each year, a new theme takes over the haunted hotel, with rooms available for those daring enough to stay the night. Just don’t expect checkout to be easy! 

Then, wander through the famous spiritualist community of Cassadaga, where you can book a psychic reading, browse metaphysical shops, and perhaps take part in a séance. Across the street, visit the Cassadaga Haunted History House, a museum of eerie artifacts and local lore.

In DeLand, hear firsthand historical accounts from the very locals who “lived” them, brought back to life for two nights only during the Oakdale Cemetery Walk, hosted by the West Volusia Historical Society. Guided by lantern light, this chilling tour offers an educational, face-to-face encounter with costumed re-enactors who recount the stories of DeLand’s past residents.

If the rush of adrenaline you get from jump-scares is more your speed, make your way to Harvest Fields for the Fields of Fright Haunted Hayride and Trail. Beginning in the cornfields, the journey descends into the bottom of a giant sinkhole surrounded by a web of twisted, gnarly oak trees. Keep your eyes open for the Horror Scare Crew lurking in the shadows.

Apocalypse: Final Days is this year’s chilling chapter of a nearly 47-year-long haunted house tradition presented by the Sorosis Club in Orange City—renowned for its elaborate sets, dedicated actors, and heart-stopping thrills.

Guided by lantern light, the Oakdale Cemetery Walk is a spine-chilling tour that offers an educational, face-to-face encounter with costumed re-enactors who recount the stories of DeLand’s past residents.

But it’s not all bone-chilling scares! Families can enjoy not-so-spooky events like the Trunk-or-Treat at Boo Spring (at Blue Spring State Park) and the Halloween Block Party at Mill Lake Park in Orange City. For something everyone in the car can enjoy, strap in and take a ride around DeBary for the Spooktacular Halloween Decorating Contest. Each year, DeBary hosts a citywide decorating contest, and residents pull out all the stops and all the skeletons from their closets for this festive event.

Monsters on MainStreet in Downtown DeLand closes the entire boulevard for safe trick-or-treating, with local shops and restaurants handing out some of the best treats around—no tricks! And for those who like a dash of fitness with their festivities, lace up for the Central 28 Monster Mash n’ Dash 5K before dancing the night away at costume parties hosted by local hot spots like Café DaVinci.

From ghostly encounters and haunted hayrides to candy-filled festivals under Florida’s starry skies, West Volusia offers a Halloween season that’s equal parts creepy, charming, and unforgettable.

For more Halloween Activities, visit our Event Calendar.