Fall is officially here! That means it’s time for pumpkin spice, cozy sweaters, and all things Halloween! If you’re looking for a fun, festive way to celebrate the season with your little ones, Sesame Place Philadelphia’s The Count’s Halloween Spooktacular is a must-visit. This family-friendly event is packed with spooky (but not too spooky!) fun that even the tiniest trick-or-treaters will enjoy.
What to Expect at The Count’s Halloween Spooktacular
Sesame Place transforms into a not-so-scary wonderland during The Count’s Halloween Spooktacular. Picture your favorite Sesame Street characters dressed in adorable costumes, festive decorations around the park, and plenty of fall-themed activities to keep your little ghouls and goblins entertained. We had the best time this past Friday for an exclusive season pass holder night! Here’s what you can expect this fall at Sesame Place:
1. Trick-or-Treating Around the Park
One of the highlights for young children is the chance to trick-or-treat around the park. With special potato chip and candy stations set up throughout Big Bird’s Beach, your little ones can fill their Halloween bags with treats as they make their way from one station to the next. Don’t forget to bring a bag or bucket for all the goodies!
Under one year old, our infant son is a bit too young to understand trick-or-treating. Still, he’s great at collecting sweets for his breastfeeding mama! We received sweets like taffy and gummy bears and salty snacks like goldfish crackers and pretzel rods. It was a nice assortment of free treats!
2. Themed Rides and Attractions
During The Count’s Halloween Spooktacular, many of Sesame Place’s rides get a festive makeover. From the Count’s Castle to the Spinning Cupcakes, the rides are decked out in Halloween decorations, making the spooky experience even more magical. The whole family can enjoy these rides together, and there are plenty of options for all ages. NOTE: Sesame Place does have a ride policy regarding handheld infants, which are defined as babies or toddlers who can’t take three steps to the ride on their own or sit independently. Hand-held infants are permitted to ride the Sunny Day Carousel on the bench seats!
3. Special Halloween Shows
What would a visit to Sesame Place be without catching a show?! During the Halloween Spooktacular, there are special Halloween-themed shows your whole family will love. Be sure to check out “The Not-Too-Spooky Howl-O-Ween Radio Show” and “Who Said Boo?!” featuring your favorite Sesame Street characters singing and dancing in their costumes. These shows are fun and interactive, so get ready to dance along! Being extra cautious, I did protect our son’s little ears from the excessive noise levels with infant earmuffs. Other than that, it’s a wonderful time! Our baby loved all the pomp and circumstance.
4. Halloween Parades
No trip to Sesame Place is complete without the Neighborhood Street Party Parade. Be forewarned: the parade only runs once or twice during operating hours so check the park’s daily schedule ahead of time. It’s worth canceling other plans! During The Count’s Halloween Spooktacular, all of your favorite Sesame Street friends march down the street in their Halloween best. It’s the perfect opportunity for your kids to see the characters up close in costume!
5. Costume Contests and Photo Ops
Make sure to dress your little monsters in their favorite costumes because Sesame Place will be hosting a costume contest on October 27th! There are different categories for children, families, and even strollers, so everyone can get in on the fun. Not visiting on that specific day? I encourage you to still dress up! With all the festive decorations, there are plenty of photo ops to capture those precious Halloween memories with the fam jam.
Tips for a Spooktacular Visit
- Plan Ahead: Check the Sesame Place Philadelphia website for event dates and times, as well as any special activities that might be happening on the day of your visit. Tristate teachers, don’t forget: you are eligible for a free teacher pass! You’ll want to activate that offer ahead of your visit.
- Arrive Early: The park can get busy, especially on weekends. Try to arrive early to make the most of your experience.
- Bring a Costume: While not required, wearing a costume adds to the fall fun! Just make sure it’s comfortable enough for a day of walking the park and riding attractions.
- Pack Snacks: While there are plenty of food options in the park, bringing some snacks helps keep little ones happy between meals. Avoid a hangry child! Toddler tantrums are hard enough to manage.
- Check the Weather: Fall weather can be unpredictable, especially in September. I dressed our baby in a cotton zipper footie preparing for a chilly night, but got hot evening sun instead. I was SO glad we brought our stroller fan! Fall in the northeast is unpredictable; we can get highs into the 80s or lows into the 50s. Be sure to check the forecast and dress in layers!
ACTIONABLE STEPS: Get out to Sesame Place Philadelphia this fall! The Count’s Halloween Spooktacular is a fantastic way to celebrate Halloween with younger children. With so many fun and family-friendly activities, it’s sure to be a day full of laughter, joy, and a little bit of not-so-scary spookiness. Happy fall, y’all!
