Spooky season is in full swing across Central New York, and this week’s lineup is packed with excitement.
Whether you’re a thrill-seeker looking for haunted performances, interactive mysteries, or ghoulishly fun bar crawls, or someone who prefers music, theater, or family-friendly outings, there’s an event to suit every taste.
From glittering drag shows and immersive magic acts to classic ballets and high-energy rock concerts, the region is buzzing with festive fun as October nears its end.
Monday, October 20
Swan Lake
Tchaikovsky’s legendary “Swan Lake” returns to Syracuse for one night only, bringing to life the timeless tale of love, magic, and transformation. Known for its breathtaking choreography and hauntingly beautiful music, this production will showcase world-class dancers performing one of ballet’s greatest masterpieces. It’s the perfect evening for lovers of classical music and elegant storytelling.
Where: 421 Montgomery St., Syracuse
When: Monday, October 20 at 7 p.m.
How much: Tickets start at $70.15 and are available online.
Dream Theater: Parasomnia Tour
Progressive metal icons Dream Theater are stopping in Syracuse on their Parasomnia Tour, delivering their signature mix of intricate musicianship, soaring vocals, and cinematic rock sound. Fans can expect to hear hits from across their decades-long career along with dazzling instrumentals and stage visuals. It’s a must-see for anyone who loves technically brilliant, high-energy live music.
Where: 362 S. Salina St., Syracuse
When: Monday, October 20 at 8 p.m.
How much: Tickets start at $82 and are available online.
Tuesday, October 21
The Yachtley Crew
Set sail with The Yachtley Crew, America’s favorite “yacht rock” band, as they dock in Syracuse for a night of smooth hits and nostalgic fun. Known for their tongue-in-cheek performances and faithful renditions of soft rock classics from the ‘70s and ‘80s, this show is all about good vibes and sing-along anthems.
Where: 411 Montgomery St., Syracuse
When: Tuesday, October 21 at 8 p.m.
How much: Tickets start at $59.90 and are available online.
Wednesday, October 22
Mario Kart Tournament
Test your racing skills at Salt City Market’s Halloween Mario Kart Tournament, where competitors of all levels can battle it out for prizes and bragging rights. Players can dress in costume for extra fun while enjoying the market’s food and drink options between races. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a serious racer, it’s the perfect midweek way to get in the Halloween spirit.
Where: 484 S. Salina St., Syracuse
When: Wednesday, October 22 from 6 to 9 p.m.
How much: Entry fee to participate is $10.
‘The 39 Steps’
Alfred Hitchcock’s classic thriller “The 39 Steps” gets a hilarious twist in this award-winning stage comedy, adapted by Patrick Barlow and directed by Benjamin Hanna. Set in 1935 London, it follows an ordinary man entangled in a whirlwind of spies, secrets and mistaken identity, all brought to life by just four actors in over 100 roles. Audiences can also enjoy themed events like lectures and trivia on select nights. Previews begin Wednesday, October 22, with opening night on Friday, October 24. The production runs through November 9.
Where: 820 E. Genesee St., Syracuse
When: Wednesday, October 22 at 7:30 p.m.
How much: Tickets start at $35 and are available online.
Thursday, October 23
Kim Richey
Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Kim Richey brings her warm voice and heartfelt storytelling to The 443 Social Club for an intimate night of live music. Known for blending elements of folk, country, and pop, Richey’s songs have been recorded by artists like Trisha Yearwood and Brooks & Dunn, but her own performances reveal a quiet emotional depth. Expect an evening of acoustic charm and soul-stirring lyrics.
Where: 443 Burnet Ave., Syracuse
When: Thursday, October 23 from 7 to 9 p.m.
How much: Tickets start at $28.45 and are available online.
Friday, October 24
Not Dead Yet – John Cleese and the Holy Grail at 50
Comedy legend John Cleese is coming to Syracuse for a night of laughter and nostalgia as he celebrates 50 years of Monty Python and the Holy Grail. The event includes a screening of the cult classic, followed by a live conversation and audience Q&A with Cleese himself, where he’ll share behind-the-scenes stories, witty reflections, and plenty of laughs. Fans are encouraged to channel their inner knights and enjoy an evening that honors one of the most influential comedies of all time.
Where: 362 S. Salina St., Syracuse
When: Friday, October 24 at 7:30 p.m.
How much: Tickets start at $77.60 and are available online.
Masters of Illusion
Some of the world’s best magicians take the stage in a fast-paced showcase of mind-bending tricks, illusions, and comedy. Featuring everything from sleight of hand to grand stage illusions, this show offers something for audiences of all ages. Get ready to question what’s real and what’s just clever misdirection in this dazzling night of magic.
Where: 411 Montgomery St., Syracuse
When: Friday, October 24 at 8 p.m.
How much: Tickets start at $65.55 and are available online.
Foretold Tales: An Anthology of Terror
The Oswego Players are bringing a touch of old-school horror to the stage with Foretold Tales: An Anthology of Terror, a three-night Halloween production inspired by classic radio dramas. The show features eight spine-chilling stories drawn from programs like “Lights Out,” “X-Minus One” and “Suspense,” including a re-creation of the legendary lost episode “The Chicken Heart.” Running October 24–26, this unique production blends nostalgia, storytelling, and live performance for an original Halloween experience.
Where: Francis Marion Brown Theater, Barbara Donahue Dr., Oswego
When: Friday, October 24 and Saturday, October 25 at 7 p.m., and Sunday, October 26 at 2 p.m.
How much: Tickets for all three shows are $29.26. A single ticket is $15.74.
Saturday, October 25
Beak and Skiff Halloween Bash
Beak & Skiff’s annual Halloween Bash returns for its fifth year, bringing live music, drinks, and festive fun to the orchard. Guests can expect costume contests, seasonal cocktails, and a lively crowd dancing under the autumn sky. Whether you go spooky or silly, this outdoor party is one of the region’s most exciting Halloween celebrations.
Where: 2708 Lords Hill Rd., LaFayette
When: Saturday, October 25 from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m.
How much: $32.64 for general admission. Tickets are available online.
True Crime Dinner
North America’s largest interactive comedy murder mystery dinner comes to Syracuse, where guests solve a hilarious “true crime” case while enjoying a full plated dinner. Actors blend into the audience, creating surprises, twists, and laughs throughout the night. Tickets include the performance, dinner, gratuity, and plenty of unexpected fun.
Where: 6004 Fair Lakes Rd., Syracuse
When: Saturday, October 25 from 6 to 9 p.m.
How much: General admission tickets are $63.69 and are available online.
Halloween Drag Show
The queens are taking over Auburn for a Halloween Drag Show filled with glitter, glamour and ghoulish fun. Expect stunning performances, fabulous costumes and an atmosphere that’s both spooky and spectacular. It’s an inclusive, high-energy event perfect for anyone looking to celebrate Halloween with a little extra flair.
Where: 8 Exchange St., Auburn
When: Saturday, October 25 from 7 to 10 p.m.
How much: General admission is $23.23 and are available online.
Organ of the Opera
Celebrate the season with an evening of music at St. David’s Episcopal Church, featuring pieces from “Bach,” “Phantom of the Opera” and “Pirates of the Caribbean.” The event also includes a family-friendly pumpkin carving and costume contest with prizes for creativity. Admission is free, making it a fun and festive way to enjoy Halloween weekend.
Where: 14 Jamar Dr., Fayetteville
When: Saturday, October 25 at 7 p.m.
How much: Free to attend.
Halloween Bar Crawl
Celebrate Halloween with a 21+ bar crawl through multiple downtown venues, featuring themed drinks, DJs, and costume contests with prizes. Tickets include access to 4+ bars, a kickoff party, and a custom digital crawl map to guide the fun. Grab your costume and join hundreds of fellow crawlers for a spirited and unforgettable night.
Where: 106 Montgomery St., Syracuse
When: Saturday, October 25 at 4 p.m.
How much: Tickets for a group rate are $12.25 and single tickets are $15.81. Tickets are available online.
Zoo Boo
Families can celebrate Halloween at the Rosamond Gifford Zoo’s annual Zoo Boo, a kid-friendly weekend of costumes, candy, and animal adventures. Children can trick-or-treat through the zoo, enjoy fall-themed activities, and see their favorite animals in a festive setting. It’s the perfect way for little ones to enjoy Halloween without the scares.
Where: 1 Conservation Place, Syracuse
When: Saturday, October 25 and Sunday, October 26 from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
How much: Free with admission.
EEK=MC2
Science meets spooky at the Museum of Science & Technology’s annual EEK=MC² weekend. Kids and families can explore hands-on Halloween-themed science experiments, crafts, and exhibits designed to make learning fun. It’s an educational twist on Halloween weekend that’s perfect for curious minds of all ages.
Where: 500 S. Franklin St., Syracuse
When: Saturday, October 25 and Sunday, October 26 from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
How much: Free with admission.
Sunday, October 26
Symphony Spectaculars
Enjoy a family-friendly afternoon of classical music as the Auburn Chamber Orchestra performs movements from symphonies by Mozart, Mahler, Beethoven, Dvorak, Brahms, Haydn and more. Conducted by Dr. Victor Vallo, Jr., the performance showcases talented musicians from across the community in the orchestra’s 39th season. Admission is free, with donations welcome, making it a perfect way to experience world-class music.
Where: 6877 East Lake Rd., Auburn
When: Sunday, October 26 at 2 p.m.
How much: Free.
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