9 Ways to Celebrate Halloween in Richmond (without the Jump Scare)
If your idea of a festive Halloween is more “the Great Pumpkin” and less “Michael Myers,” Richmond has plenty to do *in addition* to its array of scary-as-hell experiences. Read on for some of our favorite ways to carve out some freaky fun without peeking through our fingers the whole time. Like lighting the Black Flame Candle — but better. And less virgin shame-y.
— by Kelsey Heintz, Managing Editor
Tour Hollywood Cemetery
We can’t not start with Hollywood Cemetery, can we? Absolutely not. The spot is one of our favorite places for a walkabout in Richmond, especially when you’re looking for a View. Pick one of the many tour options (including self-guided in your car or on foot), and take in the history, fall colors, peacefulness, and *hint* of spookiness.
Location: 412 S Cherry St (Oregon Hill)
Hours: Found here
Shop at Rest in Pieces
Before or after you tour Hollywood Cemetery, take a pitstop at Richmond’s oddity shop. Rest in Pieces offers all kinds of interesting finds to enjoy during spooky season. Pick up a cauldron, tarot deck, skulls, and much more, and have yourself a ghostly day.
Location: 349 S Laurel St (Oregon Hill)
Hours: Found here
Visit Edgar
Black cats often get a rap for bad luck, but in many cultures (see: the cat-loving culture here at RVAx), they’re actually a symbol of good luck. Stock up for the rest of the year with a visit to The Poe Museum and its friendly feline, Edgar. He roams the outdoor grounds, so you’ll likely catch him somewhere around the Old Stone House, in between your brushing up on a midnight dreary and all that.
Location: 1914 E Main St (Downtown)
Hours: Found here
BTW: Edgar’s brother, Pluto, recently passed away, so it’s an *especially* great time to visit this Richmond landmark and offer some extra head-pats. The above pic is of the sibs a couple years back, but it’s one we love!
Drive through the Tunnel of Terror at Tommy’s Express Car Wash
Okay, so, this one is A TOUCH jump-scary, but you can enjoy it from the safety of your car *and* check an errand off your to-do list. The Tunnel of Terror at Tommy's Express Car Wash features creepy decorations galore, spooky actors, gory horror movie scenes, and a whole host of terrifying costumed creatures. But you get a bag full of tasty candy for making it through the madness — so, you win some, you scream some.
Locations & hours vary: Learn more here
Take a Spooky Lights Tour with RVATukTuk or Discover Richmond Tours
The winter holiday season isn’t the only one that gets people in the spirit with outdoor-light displays. RVATukTuk and Discover Richmond Tours each offer Halloween light tours this time of year! Comfortably scope out the eerie illuminated scenes while somebody else drives you around town in a tuk tuk or bus (depending on which option you go with).
Walk by the Harry Potter Halloween house on Floyd Ave
Real witches and wizards know that true sorcery abounds on Floyd Ave. The owners of 3433 Floyd Ave have decked out their spot in Potter-themed decor in the past, and they’re at it again this fall — towering Remus John Lupin werewolf included.
Location: 3433 Floyd Ave (Museum District)
Staycation at The Black Pine
Make an overnight of your celebrations with a stay at a haunting Airbnb. According to its owner, The Black Pine is more than a boring rental; it’s a moody, immersive experience set against a backdrop of Spanish tile, rare artwork, eclectic curiosities, and recent renovations. “Connect with the spirit of a place and time” when you staycation here.
Location: Found here (Oregon Hill)
Reservations: Found here
Other ~haunts~ to check out:
