Spooky Ideas for October Half Term and Halloween

As the leaves change colour, the nights grow longer and darkness falls that bit earlier, Southampton transforms into a hub of spooky fun and creative activities this Halloween season. Whether you’re a family with children, a couple looking for a thrill, or simply someone who enjoys celebrating, there’s something for everyone. Here are ten must-do activities in Southampton this Halloween! 

 1. Halloween at Tudor House 
Thursday 31 October | 10am – 5pm 

Join in the Halloween festivities at the historic Tudor House and Garden on Thursday 31 October. With a special lineup of spooky events and activities, it’s the perfect place to celebrate and get in the spirit(s) in a uniquely atmospheric setting. Expect ghostly tales and family-friendly fun for all ages. Admission is FREE although small charges apply for some activities. 
 
And good news for history buffs: Tudor House and Garden is now open every Friday until Christmas! Book your tickets here. 

2. Ghosts of Tudor House: Echoes of the Past Guided Tour 
Sunday 27 October | Various Times 

Delve into Southampton’s haunted history with the “Ghosts of Tudor House” guided tour on the first Sunday of the October Half Term. This spine-chilling experience will take you through the eerie past of this historic site, perfect for those who enjoy a good scare or are fascinated by local lore. 

3. 101 Dalmatians – Mayflower Theatre 
Tuesday 22 October – Saturday 26 October 

The smash hit musical 101 Dalmatians is coming to Mayflower Theatre, starring Kym Marsh (star of Coronation Street and Hear’say) as the greatest villain of them all, Cruella De Vil. 

When fashionista Cruella de Vil plots to swipe all the Dalmatian puppies in town to create her fabulous new fur coat, there’s trouble ahead for Pongo and Perdi and their litter of adorable, tail-wagging young pups. 

Book your tickets now – you’d be barking mad to miss it! 

4. Culture Club for Kids – October Half Term 
Monday 28 October – Friday 1 November | 9am – 4pm 

For those looking to immerse their kids in creativity, Culture Club for Kids offers a whole week of fun and engaging activities from 28 October 28 to 1 November. This programme includes art, crafts, and imaginative play, ensuring that children stay entertained while developing their creative skills. You can book individual days, but why not book the whole week and save £15? 

5. Mixed Media Magic with Sandra Heath 
Saturday 9 November 2024 | 11am – 4pm 

Explore a variety of mixed media materials and enjoy the pleasure of spending a few hours immersed in your own creative expression. This workshop is for anyone who would love to unleash their creative side for a few hours! 

6. The Saints Exhibition Opening 
Saturday 26 October 2024 

Football fans won’t want to miss the opening of The Saints Exhibition at SeaCity Museum on the first day of the Half Term on Saturday 26 October! Celebrate the rich history of Southampton’s beloved football club and immerse yourself in interactive displays that appeal to fans of all ages. This exhibition can be seen as part of the Southampton Stories display and is the perfect build-up to the big game against the champions on that Saturday afternoon! 

7. Country Road – Country Music Barn Dance 
Sunday 27 October | from 4pm 

Strap on your boots and mosey on down to Guildhall Square for the Country Road Festival, the UK’s premier indoor country music Barn Dance! Get ready to boot-scoot ‘n boogie under a massive temporary barn with a 2000 capacity, transformed into the ultimate country fest haven. 

8. Wizard School 
Monday 28 October | Various Times 
Tuesday 29 October | Various Times 

Calling all aspiring witches and wizards! Head to the Wizard School on Monday and/or Tuesday of the October Half Term for a magical experience of potion-making, spell-casting, and other enchanting activities. This event is perfect for children, but adults are welcome to join in the magic. 

9. Art for All: Clay Pumpkins (31 October & 1 November)  
Thursday 31 October | Various Times 
Friday 1 November | Various Times 

Get hands-on this Halloween by crafting your very own clay pumpkins on Thursday 31 October (oooh, spooky!) and Friday 1 November. This fun, interactive workshop is suitable for all ages, making it an excellent way for families to bond and get creative together. 

10. Art for All: Spooky Fruit Press Printing 
Wednesday 30 October | Various Times 

 Learn how to create a relief print this month with a special spooky – and fruity – twist. Our team will guide you through drawing, colour matching and exciting printing techniques. Adults are very welcome to participate – please do book a free ticket if you would like to do so! 

Whether for Halloween thrills or just to enjoy the half-term holiday, Southampton has a hauntingly good lineup this autumn – including some stunning green spaces waiting for you to explore. So don’t be scared: join in with the fun, try something new and make the most of Southampton’s fantastic culture and nature at SeaCity Museum, Tudor House and Garden, and Southampton City Art Gallery!