Essex Becomes The Haunted Hamlet in October

Just in time for Halloween, Essex, NY, becomes an enchanting haunted village full of treats and a few fun tricks.

Essex’s Haunted Hamlet includes a carnival on Main Street. All photos courtesy the Town of Essex

In October, the picturesque town of Essex, NY, located on the shores of Lake Champlain, undergoes a spooky transformation, becoming the Halloween capital of the Adirondacks. On October 26, 2024, visitors can experience a guided tour of the haunted town hall and join a community costume party that takes over the charming Main Street.

Scary haunted graveyard. Photo credit Dana Cormier.

Bewitching attractions and events.

One of the main features of Essex’s Haunted Hamlet is their Haunted Town Hall. They open their doors from 4:30 to 8 pm for a spooktacular time. For visitors looking for a “no scare” tour, come early from 2:30 to 4 pm. The lights will remain off, but no goblins will jump out at visitors.

You won’t want to miss the Carnival on Main Street from 2 to 8 pm. Enjoy s’mores around the campfire, check out local craft vendors, and do the monster mash to classic Halloween-inspired dance tunes.

Smores! Photo credit. Dana Cormier

Feeling artistic? Take part in Pumpkin Painting behind Town Hall from 2 pm to 4 pm.

Local shops and restaurants will be open, including the Adirondack Art Association, The Barn Door Tavern, The Essex Inn, The Neighborhood Nest, and Pink Pig, an ADK Taste favorite.

Haunted Hayride Tours and local food trucks round out the great things available to all who dare to visit The Haunted Hamlet.

For more information, visit The Haunted Hamlet webpage and Facebook page

Discover places to eat, shop, stay and things to do near Essex, NY.

Shop our store for unique Adirondack gifts, clothing, merchandise and cool stuff.

Upcoming events and things to do in the Lake Champlain and Adirondack Coast region.

Navigate to Essex, NY.