Although COVID-19 has put a temporary pause on some of Martin County’s most beloved Halloween-themed events and activities, there are still ways to get your scare on and celebrate Halloween in style. To get you in the spirit of the holiday, we have rounded up a handful of spooktacular events happening throughout Martin County during October. And for a full list of upcoming events, be sure to keep an eye on the Discover Martin Events page, which is updated regularly.
Ghost Cruise Spooktacular
Embark on a Halloween Cruise
Looking for a scary good time? Consider booking a Ghost Cruise Spectacular aboard the Stuart Water Taxi! Sit back and enjoy a drink in the Florida night breeze while cruising by some of Stuart’s most haunted landmarks! Expect ghoulish tales, lots of laughs, a couple of scares, and great music. Narrated by talent from the Barn Theater, there will be two sailings every Friday and Saturday evening beginning October 15 until Halloween night: the first at 7:30 PM (best suited for families with children at least 7 years old) and the second at 9:00 PM (tailored for an adult audience). Tickets for the Family Cruise will cost $20 for children and $30 for adults, and the Adults Cruise will cost $35 per person – but book now, tickets are limited. For more information, call (772) 208-8662 or visit www.treasuregirlcharters.com.
Kids Halloween Cruise
Sail Away on a Kids Halloween Cruise
The Stuart Water Taxi has also organized a kid-friendly Halloween cruise, specially created with the littlest hobgoblins in mind. Parents can bring their children aged 10 and under for an unforgettable day of fun in the sun aboard the Treasure Girl. Wear your costume and enjoy candy, music, and so much more. And don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for birds, dolphins, and other local wildlife! Tickets will cost just $10 for kids and $20 per adult. The cruises will take place on the following dates and times, but be sure to book in advance to save your spot:
- Saturday, October 17 at 4:00 PM
- Thursday, October 22 at 10:00 AM
- Saturday, October 24 at 4:00 PM
- Thursday, October 29 at 10:00 AM
- Saturday, October 31 at 4:00 PM
Port Salerno Ghost Tours
Join a Port Salerno Ghost Tour
Port Salerno began as a humble fishing village before becoming a hub for the South Florida fishing industry. Today, it’s a bustling waterfront district known for its artistic flair, and its residents and businesses are proud of the community’s rich fishing heritage. But to learn more about the region’s spooky history and local lore, join a fun-filled night with Port Salerno Ghost Tours. During these nighttime, hour-long excursions through historic downtown Port Salerno, participants will hear a collection of hair-raising ghost stories and ancient legends from a bygone era. Participants will also have a chance to search for lingering spirits using real equipment and instruments often seen on popular paranormal shows like Ghost Hunters and Ghost Adventures. Tickets cost $15 per person – to see more, head to the Port Salerno Ghost Tours Facebook page.
Halloween at the House of Refuge
Halloween at the House of Refuge
Everyone is familiar with the iconic House of Refuge, which also happens to be the oldest structure in Martin County. Built in 1876, as one of 10 houses of refuge along the East Coast of Florida, Gilbert’s Bar House of Refuge is the only house of refuge that remains. Step back in time to the turn of the century during the highly anticipated Halloween at the House of Refuge event, hosted by Port Salerno Ghost Tours in partnership with the House of Refuge Museum at Gilbert’s Bar. Taking place on Saturday, October 31 from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM, this full-blown presentation and ghost hunt will bring participants on a deep dive into one the premier historical sites on Florida’s Treasure Coast. Two paranormal teams will investigate this storied building in search of long-lost spirits! Ticket-holders will assist them during this paranormal investigation, which is sure to be an unforgettable experience. But act soon, as the event has extremely limited capacity due to COVID-19. Tickets will cost $100 per person, and part of the proceeds for this event will benefit the museum. To reserve a space, call the House of Refuge at (772) 225-1875.
Howl at the Pocket
Howl at the Pocket
Ghouls and goblins of all ages are invited to the First Annual Howl at the Pocket Halloween Fest at Port Salerno, taking place on Saturday, October 31st from 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM! Over 35 Vendors will be in attendance (social-distant style) at this FREE ENTRY event, and there will be a wide variety of treasures to explore. Think: treasure hunts, socially distant activities, food vendors, adult beverages, jewelry, boutique clothing, unique art, statues, raffles, contests, free giveaways, pre-packaged candy available for the kiddos, and so much more at this all-day Halloween event! In addition to spooky decorations and awesome costumes, thee will also be guided tours of Historic Port Salerno. While you’re enjoying the festivities, grab a bite to eat at waterfront favorites like the Twisted Tuna; go paddleboarding with Liquid Aloha; shop for Halloween-themed souvenirs at Arri’s Portal; join a pub crawl; or enter the costume contest for your chance at this year’s grand prize! For more information, check out the official Facebook event – it’s bound to be a howling good time.
Safety measures are in place for the socially-distanced, outdoor fest:
- All attendees are asked to wear a mask upon entering.
- Social distancing is required between vendors and patrons.
- Patrons are asked to stay home if they have been diagnosed with COVID-19, awaiting test results for COVID-19, or show any symptoms.
- Guests are also asked to utilize sanitizing stations on a regular basis and avoid casual touching.
Trick or Treat Stroll at the Children’s Museum
Grab Your Costume for the Treat or Treat Stroll
This October marks the 11th Annual Trick or Treat Stroll at the Children’s Museum of the Treasure Coast in Jensen Beach, Florida. The spooky tradition will take place from 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM on Saturday, October 31. The museum received many requests from community members in favor of hosting the event, although participating children ages six and up will be required to wear a face covering. During the event, costumed kids will walk through the spacious museum, collecting candy, crafts, and other goodies along the way. The event is open to the public and will be free for museum members and $2 for any other attendees. “We are hoping to give a little normalcy to kids during this time,” said Tammy Calabria, the museums Executive Director. “Our goal is to offer a safe, clean, fun environment for kids to experience the spirit of the season.”
TCMCostumeContest
Compete in the Virtual #TCMcostumecontest
The Children’s Museum of the Treasure Coast will also offer a virtual counterpart to their in-person Treat of Treat Stroll for those celebrating at home. Hosted through the Instagram platform, people are encouraged to share photos of the costume using the #TCMcostumecontest hashtag to enter by 11:59 PM EST on Saturday, October 31. Awards will be given for the following categories: Most Creative, Spookiest, and Best Overall. The first two category winners will receive a one-day pass for a family of four. The Best Overall winner will receive a complimentary family membership. Winners will be announced in an Instagram story on the museum’s Instagram page (@thechildrensmuseumtc) at 11:00 AM on Sunday, November 1.
Drive-Thru Halloween Spooktacular