The Ultimate KC Weekend Guide: Halloween & Day of the Dead (October 31 – November 2)

by Danny Howell

Fall is in full swing, and Kansas City is showcasing its cultural and spooky sides this weekend, October 31st through November 2nd. From high-energy costume parties to a moving cultural celebration and the final weekends of the best Halloween attractions, this weekend highlights the diverse quality of life that makes the KC metro so appealing.

Whether you’re a long-time resident or just looking for a frightfully good time, here are five fantastic events to explore this weekend.

1. Angels and Demons Halloween Party 😈

For those looking for a high-energy, classic Halloween party experience, the Angels and Demons Party is one of the biggest in the city. Expect themed drinks, live DJ sets, and thousands of costumed revelers packed into the district for a big, theatrical night out.

Dates: Friday, October 31st
Location: KC Live! Block, Power & Light District (Multiple venues, including PBR Big Sky)
Times: Starting at 7:00 PM

2. Cultural Celebration: Día de los Muertos Festival 💀

Celebrate the beautiful tradition of Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). This family-friendly festival is a vibrant cultural event featuring traditional music, dance, art activities, and community altars (ofrendas) created to honor the lives of loved ones. It’s a colorful and enriching way to spend your Sunday.

Dates: Sunday, November 2nd
Location: The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
Times: Times vary; check the museum's website for schedule details.

3. Final Call: BOOlevard Spooky Pop-Up Bar 🍺

Boulevard Brewing Co.'s popular spooky pop-up bar, BOOlevard, is hosting its final nights this weekend. Stop by for creepy cocktails and a haunting atmosphere before it disappears until next year. It's a fun way to enjoy a themed brewery experience.

Dates: Friday, October 31st & Saturday, November 1st (Ends Nov 1)
Location: Boulevard Tours & Rec Center
Times: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM (11 AM – 5 PM on Sunday, Nov 2, if open)

4. Maximum Thrills: Halloween Haunt 😱

For a maximum adrenaline rush, Halloween Haunt is in its final weekend. The amusement park transforms into a terrifying landscape with multiple haunted houses, scare zones, and sinister stage shows, plus nighttime thrill rides. This is a classic KC fright-night tradition.

Dates: Friday, October 31st & Saturday, November 1st (Select Nights)
Location: Worlds of Fun
Times: Check the Worlds of Fun website for nightly operating hours.

5. Family-Friendly Lights: GloWild 💡

If you need a break from the scares, the Zoo’s stunning lantern festival, GloWild, offers a spectacular visual experience. Walk through thousands of illuminated, handcrafted lanterns depicting animals and historical themes. It’s a beautiful, family-friendly outing that runs well into November.

Dates: All Weekend (Ongoing attraction)
Location: Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium
Times: Evening hours; check the Zoo website for specific entry times.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are the events family-friendly? A: The Angels and Demons Party is generally 21+. However, the Día de los Muertos Festival, GloWild, and the daytime hours at Worlds of Fun (Tricks and Treats) are all suitable for families and people of all ages.

Q: Do I need to buy tickets in advance for these events? A: Yes, tickets are required and highly recommended in advance for Angels and Demons, Halloween Haunt, and GloWild, as they are high-demand events. The Día de los Muertos Festival may require timed entry or ticket registration, so check the Nelson-Atkins website.

Q: Where can I find more information on these events? A: For more detailed information on times, specific locations, and ticket prices, please visit the official event websites for the respective venues (KC Live!, Nelson-Atkins, Worlds of Fun, KC Zoo, and Boulevard).