Pumpkins, Frights And Lively Nights

Autumn is the perfect season to fall in love with Boston. With pumpkins galore, a crisp breeze and leaves of bright oranges and reds, the area settles into its own beauty. It’s also the season of spook and the city happily turns its pumpkin spiced latte in for a cup of creep. Here are a few ways to get in the Halloween spirit.

- Cheryl Fenton

FAMILY FRIENDLY

Watch The Boston Common Frog Pond fill up with lighted pumpkins during the 6th Annual Pumpkin Float on Oct. 18 starting at 5 pm. You can even add your own carved masterpiece to the mix. Music, kids’ activities (hello, haunted house fun) and treats make for a fun evening. Costumes are welcome.

Haunted houses, stories, magic, popcorn and more await within the creepy confines of Fort Independence when Castle Island in Boston Harbor hosts its Children’s Magical Haunted Castle on Oct. 26 and 27 from noon to 4 pm.

Trick-or-treat among the animals during Boo at the Zoo, Oct. 19 and 20, at Stoneham’s Stone Zoo and Zoo Howl (Oct. 26 and 27) at Franklin Park Zoo. From ghoulish games and creepy crafts to costume contests, a trick-or-treat trail, and a haunted maze, there’s plenty to enjoy. Do make time to watch the animals play with and snack on pumpkins. 11 am-3 pm.

GROWN-UP FUN