Dozens of Halloween Inspired Autumn Events in Newburyport!

October 1

Oak Hill Cemetery: Artists, Painters, and Ancient Trees

The Museum of Old Newbury brings you a walk through Newburyport's historic 1842 Oak Hill Cemetery with noted author and historian Ghlee Woodworth, a 12th-generation Newburyport native. Meet civic leaders, reformers, preservationists, public servants, and ordinary residents whose work protected lives, strengthened local institutions, and helped save the city's historic character.

https://www.newburyhistory.org/calendar/2026/10/1/oak-hill-cemetery-artists-painters-and-ancient-trees

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October 1-31

Drop-In Tarot

Have you ever wanted to learn more about Tarot and maybe try doing a reading yourself? This month we invite you to do just that! Drop into the Craft Corner on the second floor of the Newburyport Public Library to try out a learner deck, which includes card meanings and some basic spread templates to get you started. A simple tarot guide will also be provided to explore while using the Craft Corner or to find some great books in our collection to take home. FREE

https://newburyportpl.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/drop-in-tarot-in-person/

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October 2, 9, 16, 23

Scary Matinees Ever Friday in October!

Come and enjoy the theater-like screen and sound system with fellow film buffs at the Newburyport Public Library. In October we feature movies that will haunt you, every Friday from 2:00-4:30. FREE.

https://newburyportpl.org/events-calendar/calendar/

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October 3

Newburyport Chocolate Tour

Our signature fall event returns with over 30 chocolate samples included with your ticket, and exclusive in-store experiences during your downtown stroll. Limited spots available!

https://chocolatetour.org/

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October 5

Maker Monday: Meditation Potion Bottles

Join the Newburyport Public Library for some creative fun with Maker Mondays. This month we will be embracing the spooky spirit of October and creating Meditation Potion Bottles. Sometimes called Sensory or Calm-Down Bottles, this craft uses a combination of water, coloring, mica powder, and glitter to create a swirling liquid meditation aid which encourages thoughtfulness and helps settle the mind. Participants will choose one of four prepared designs and take home their finished potion at the end of the craft. FREE

https://newburyportpl.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/maker-monday-meditation-potion-bottles-in-person/

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October 5

Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead)Ceramic Plate Workshop

In this Tinkerhouse workshop held at Port Vida Mexican Cantina, you will learn about Día de los Muertos, a holiday celebrated primarily in Mexico on November 1 and 2. Denise will introduce the history and traditions associated with the celebration before guiding participants through painting and decorating their own spooky ceramic plate.

https://www.tinkerhaus.org/events/2026/10/5/da-de-los-muertos-ceramic-plate-workshop

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October 6

True Crime with author Robert Fitzgibbon

The Newburyport Public Library is pleased to welcome author Robert Fitzgibbon for an evening exploring local history and true crime. In his latest book "Murder in Salem Massachusetts: The Death of Frances Cochran," Rob explores the story of a young woman who stepped off a commuter bus, got into a mysterious black car, and was not seen again until her body was discovered three days later. This cold case captured the imagination of a post war nation and now Rob invites us to join him as he examines what is known, what is suspected and a story shrouded in the mystery and witchcraft of a region known for magic and hauntings. Book sales and a signing will follow the discussion. FREE

https://newburyportpl.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/true-crime-in-salem-with-author-robert-fitzgibbon-in-person/

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October 6

Spooky Cookies & Coloring

Join us at the Newburyport Public Library to relax with spooky (but not too spooky!) coloring sheets, crayons and markers, and individually wrapped cookies. Drop in any time between 3:00 and 4:30. Kids of all ages and abilities are welcome. FREE

https://newburyportpl.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/spooky-cookies-coloring-3/

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October 8

Get in the Spirits (Virtual)

Celebrate Halloween with seasonal mocktails and dishes to get you in the spirit. We will incorporate holiday colors and the flavors of fall as we gather for a festive night of cooking. FREE

https://newburyportpl.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/get-in-the-spirits-virtual/

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October 10-11

Autumn Fest 2026

The greater Newburyport Chamber of Commerce presents a celebration of arts & culture with live local bands, local food trucks, artisans and crafters (with lots of Halloween inspired items!). FREE

https://business.newburyportchamber.org/events/details/autumn-fest-2026-166336

October 16

Witches Night Out

This year’s event presented by the Greater Newburyport Chamber of Commerce promises a spellbinding evening, featuring extended hours at local shops, so you can enjoy late-night shopping in your favorite costumes. Wander through downtown Newburyport and the Tannery, where the streets will come alive with witches and warlocks in their most creative attire. Delight in witchy-themed cocktails and exclusive specials at participating local shops and restaurants, adding an extra layer of fun to your night out. FREE

https://business.newburyportchamber.org/events/details/witches-night-out-2026-164250

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October 17-18 (rain date October 24)

Maudslay is Haunted!

Theater in the Open’s notorious annual haunting of Maudslay is back! Join us at THE HAUNTED TRAIL for a walk in the park like no other—if you dare! Spooky and silly vignettes for all ages are sure to get your entire family in the Halloween spirit!

https://www.theaterintheopen.org/maudslay-is-haunted

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October 23

Downtown Trick or Treat!

Bring the kids in costume and stop by the Newburyport Downtown shops and trick or treat from 4-5 pm! Multiple retailers and restaurants are participating! FREE

https://business.newburyportchamber.org/events/details/downtown-trick-or-treat-2026-164251

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October 24-25

Spookley the Square Pumpkin

Based on the wildly popular books and animated special, Spookley The Square Pumpkin: The Musical at the Firehouse Center for the Arts combines the spectacle and joy of Halloween with delightful songs that people of all ages will love!

https://firehouse.org/event/spookley-the-square-pumpkin-3/2026-10-24/1/

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October 27

Make a Monster Clay Play

We're pulling out the clay and making our very own monsters! Join Miss Isa for this simple, spooky craft to celebrate Halloween! This program is open to kids of all ages and abilities. Drop in any time between 3:00 and 4:30 p.m. FREE

https://newburyportpl.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/make-a-monster-clay-play/

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October 28

Welcome to the Graveyard

“Welcome to the Graveyard” is a 90 minute in-person ‘virtual tour’ presented by the Newburyport Public Library chronicling cemetery art, history, and symbolism. From colonial New England burial grounds of the 17th and 18th centuries, through the nation-wide rural cemetery movement of the 19th century into 21st century locations, the program examines why we have cemeteries and gravestones, why they look like they do and how styles and art have evolved over almost 400 years. The presentation is robust with photographs of original gravestones and burial grounds from cemeteries visited by Gravestone Girls over many years, including those from a recent trip to Newburyport to document local stones and spaces specifically for this program. FREE

https://newburyportpl.assabetinteractive.com/calendar/welcome-to-the-graveyard-in-person/

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October 31

Rocky Horror Picture Show

Join the Firehouse Center of the Arts for this cult classic and annual tradition! A late night showing at 11:00 pm, complete with a bag of food to throw!

https://firehouse.org/event/rocky-26/

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