Halloween is calling—and Hickory is ready to answer! From haunted theaters and spine-tingling historic homes to hands-on animal encounters and candy-filled adventures, this town is packed with tricks, treats, and plenty of thrills for every age. Whether you’re chasing ghost stories, exploring spooky attractions, or soaking up family-friendly fun, Hickory has something to make your Halloween unforgettable.
For the Fearless: Hickory's Haunted Highlights
The Woman in Black: Hickory Community Theatre, Oct. 17–Nov. 1
Photo Credit: Hickory Community Theatre, via website
Enter the chilling world of The Woman in Black at Hickory Community Theatre, running October 17–November 1. This classic ghost story follows a lawyer and an actor as they bring a haunting tale to life—one filled with eerie encounters and a mysterious woman whose presence spells doom for all who see her. Creepy, captivating, and perfect for a chilling night out, this show will keep you on the edge of your seat. Catch performances Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2:30 p.m., with an extra show on Thursday, October 30 at 7:30 p.m., if you dare.
Waking the Dead: Propst House, Oct. 19 & 26
Photo Credit: Hickory Landmarks Society, via website
Step into Hickory’s past (and maybe its afterlife) at Waking the Dead on October 19 and 26 from 4–7 p.m. at the historic Propst House. Built in 1882 and the only surviving Second French Empire–style home in town, this finely restored house offers a glimpse into Victorian life. Discover Victorian mourning customs through artifacts and stories, and even take part in a mock wake with costumed docents. Admission is $10 per person, with registration available online or in person at Maple Grove and at the Propst House on the day of the event.
Downtown Hickory Ghost Tour: Oct. 22
Photo Credit: Hickory Community Theatre, via Facebook
Uncover Hickory’s haunted history with the Downtown Hickory Ghost Tour, hosted by Hickory Community Theatre! Meet outside the Olde Hickory Station at 7:49 PM on Wednesday, October 22, and follow local guide Cory Bragg as he shares chilling stories, haunted happenings, and curious secrets from the city after dark. The tour concludes back at the theatre with tales of spirits said to linger in its halls—a fun and slightly eerie outing for anyone ready to experience the city’s mysterious side, and best of all, admission is free!
Lake Hickory Haunts: Open Select Nights Through Nov. 2
Photo Credit: Lake Hickory Haunts, via Facebook
Face your fears at Lake Hickory Haunts, the Carolinas’ premier haunted theme park. With 13 heart-pounding attractions, movie-quality sets, and over 100 characters ready to make you jump, Lake Hickory Haunts is unlike anything else in North Carolina. Open select nights through November 2, with ticket prices varying by date—grab your friends for a frightfully fun night out!
For the Little Monsters: Family-Friendly Frights & Sweet Treats
Creepy Crawly Animal Encounters: Catawba Science Center, Thursdays this October
Things are squirming at Catawba Science Center! Every Thursday in October from noon to 1 p.m., visitors can experience Creepy Crawly Animal Encounters, and get up close with snakes, spiders, and other fascinating critters. Free with museum admission, it’s a perfect mix of learning and thrills for brave explorers of all ages.
Carolina Spook Tales: The Green Room Community Theatre, Oct. 30
Gather ‘round for an evening of Carolina legends and ghostly lore at Carolina Spook Tales, October 30 at 6 p.m. at The Green Room Community Theatre. Performed by the Green Bean Players, this family-friendly show brings North Carolina’s most famous folktales—like Brown Mountain Lights and The Pirate Ghost of Folly Island—to life on stage. Perfect for audiences in fourth grade and up, it’s a spirited mix of history, imagination, and Halloween fun.
Sweet Stops Around Town
The Halloween fun doesn’t stop there! Little ghosts and goblins can make the rounds at candy stops across the Hickory area—from the Conover Candy Crawl (Oct. 18) and Downtown Hickory’s Monster Mash (Oct. 23) to the Autumn Market at the Conover Farmers Market (Oct. 25). Round out the fun at Treats in the Streets in Catawba (Oct. 25) or the City of Hickory Parks, Recreation, and Sports Tourism's Trunk or Treat Fall Festival (Oct. 25), packed with games, costumes, and candy. With so many ways to celebrate, Hickory’s making this Halloween one to remember—no tricks, just treats!
Don’t just hear about the Halloween fun—come experience it! Grab your crew, throw on your costumes, and see all that Hickory has to offer this season. With haunted thrills, legendary tales, creepy crawlies, and candy galore, there’s no better place to make memories that last. Peek at our events calendar, plan your visits, and get ready for a Halloween adventure you won’t want to miss!
