The Upper West Side may be best known for its leafy avenues, family-friendly vibe, and world-class cultural institutions, but in October it takes on a whole new personality. This elegant, historic neighborhood becomes one of the most enchanting backdrops for Halloween events in NYC.
Between the arts and thrills at Lincoln Center and the sprawling pathways of Riverside Park, the UWS offers a mix of the spooky, the festive, and the unforgettable.
For those who prefer candlelit ghost tours or the vibrant energy of a Halloween party in NYC, the Upper West Side offers the perfect balance of thrills and atmosphere. Here’s a closer look at the haunted corners and Halloween highlights of the Upper West Side.
One of the newest and most charming neighborhood Halloween traditions is the Hippo Playground Halloween Parade in Riverside Park, slated for October 31. Located just a 10-minute walk from The Wallace Hotel, this free, family-friendly event invites children to parade in costume, enjoy festive decorations, and gather in a playful, community atmosphere.
Unlike haunted walking tours or more intense scares, this parade is about whimsy and neighborhood spirit. Kids dressed as friendly ghosts, superheroes, animals, or whatever their imaginations conjure march through the garden-like paths of Riverside, with parents and neighbors lining the sidewalks to cheer them on. Local volunteers typically assist with decorations, candy stations, and music, creating a warm, spirited Halloween tradition.
A New York City tradition like no other, the Village Halloween Parade returns for its 52nd year on Friday, October 31, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. A 27-minute rideshare from The Wallace Hotel, this iconic event transforms downtown Manhattan into a lively spectacle of costumes, music, and creativity. Everyone is welcome to watch, and those in costume can join the march, making it one of the most inclusive and energetic celebrations of the season.
This year’s theme, “Potluck,” invites a playful mix of imagination and surprise, where colorful puppets, dancers, and revelers bring the streets to life. Guests can grab special access tickets for a closer view or enjoy the parade from one of the many vantage points along the route. For Wallace Hotel visitors, it’s an unmissable way to soak in New York’s Halloween spirit, full of fun, flair, and festive chaos.
Halloween takes on a refined twist at Lincoln Center, just a quick 5-minute rideshare from The Wallace Hotel. Across its theaters and concert halls, the city’s leading performers are bringing a spirited mix of music, film, and dance to the season.
Catch Psycho In Concert with the New York Philharmonic, where Hitchcock’s suspense meets a live orchestra, or join the crowd for the Rocky Horror Picture Show: 50th Anniversary Screening. This cult favorite always delivers a lively audience.
Those looking for something more unexpected can experience Beats, Rhymes & Sights: Blade Halloween Film Screening, a collaboration with Shaolin Jazz that pairs hip-hop culture with superhero cinema. Meanwhile, The Juilliard School’s Halloween Concert and American Ballet Theatre’s special program offer elegant performances with a seasonal twist. From classic chills to high-energy creativity, Lincoln Center’s Halloween lineup promises an amazing night of culture and fun.
Halloween on the Upper West Side isn’t just about kids and costumes; it’s also about nightlife. Just a 10-minute walk from The Wallace Hotel, The Dead Poet is a neighborhood institution that leans fully into the season. Known for its literary cocktails and cozy vibe, it transforms into a lively haunt with themed drinks, contests, and costumed regulars.
Other UWS bars and venues, from craft beer spots to chic lounges, also host lively Halloween gatherings. Many organize DJ nights, costume contests, and spooky-themed specials that bring an energetic yet local feel.
From the haunted history of Riverside Park to the many events at Lincoln Center, the Upper West Side shines as one of the most atmospheric places for Halloween events in NYC.
Families can delight in the spectacular view of the Halloween Parade. At the same time, adults can dance the night away at a Halloween party in NYC hosted in one of the neighborhood’s many bars.
And when the night ends, The Wallace Hotel is just steps away, offering modern luxury and a peaceful retreat from the city’s spooky excitement.
This Halloween, book your stay at the Wallace Hotel, your perfect home base for exploring the haunted corners, lively parties, and festive energy of the Upper West Side.