2025 Freehold Spooktacular: What To Know

FREEHOLD BOROUGH, NJ — Freehold Borough’s annual Spooktacular is set to return this October with a full slate of Halloween-themed events.

Throughout October, borough officials said Spooktacular celebrations will bring neighbors together for movies, hayrides, contests, parades and some spooky surprises. All events are free and open to the public.

Here’s what’s planned for the annual celebration:

Outdoor Movie Screening & Community Dance
The fun kicks off on Friday with an outdoor screening of Disney Pixar’s “Coco” at 7 p.m. at the Hall of Records in Downtown Freehold. Families are encouraged to bring chairs, blankets and snacks for a night under the stars.

Immediately following the movie, there will be a Community Thriller Dance from 7-8:45 p.m. Participants are welcome to join in to recreate Michael Jackson’s classic video.

All are welcome to participate in the fun and dress as a zombie. For more information on the dance, you can call or text 732-890-0603.

Haunted Hayride
On Sunday, Oct. 19, the Haunted Hayride event will return from 1-4 p.m., featuring live Halloween scenes and jump scares from local “haunters.”

The hayride will depart from the Wells Fargo parking lot at 72 West Main Street. Beginning at 12:30 p.m., wristbands will be distributed with specific ride times assigned. Attendees must listen for their times to be called.

A limited number of slots are available, and the line will close once all wristbands are given out.

While some scenes may be scarier than others, borough officials said the hayride remains a family-friendly Halloween event. Parents should use their discretion to determine if it’s appropriate for their children.

House Decorating Contest
From Oct. 21-23, residents can showcase their creativity in the Spooktacular’s House Decorating Contest.

Homes throughout town will be transformed into haunted houses and pumpkin displays, with prizes awarded for the most festive entries.

To enter, participants must complete an online form (available here). The entry deadline is Oct. 19, and all lights at all participating homes must be turned on by 5:30 p.m. each evening during the contest.

Winners will be announced at the Monster Mash on Oct. 25.

Monster Mash & Jack-o’-Lantern Contest
The Spooktacular celebration will continue on Saturday, Oct. 25, from 6-8 p.m. with the Monster Mash & Jack-o’-Lantern Contest.

This family-friendly event will include games, Halloween music, inflatables, and complimentary refreshments. Attendees are encouraged to bring their most creatively carved pumpkins for the contest.

All pumpkins must be carved to qualify, but once carved, they may also be painted, decorated, or accessorized. Guests will vote for their favorites, and prizes will be awarded to the winners.

Costume Parade & Contest
The month-long Spooktacular celebration will wrap up with the Costume Parade & Contest on Sunday, Oct. 26.

The parade will step off at 1 p.m., inviting children, adults, families, groups and even pets to march in costume, enter the contest, or cheer from the sidewalks along the route.

Contest check-in will begin at 12:15 p.m. at the Freehold Raceway parking lot (Manalapan entrance). Contestants must register for a number to be pinned on their costumes.

Judging will take place in the lot before contestants line up at 12:45 p.m. to march. Contest categories include:

• Newborn–2 years old
• 3-5 years old
• 6-8 years old
• 9-12 years old
• 13 years old and up
• Best Group Costume
• Best Family Costume
• Best Pet Costume

Winners will be announced at the parade’s end at the Hall of Records, where complimentary refreshments will be available for all attendees.

“Spooktacular has become one of the most beloved traditions in Freehold Borough, bringing families, friends, and neighbors together to celebrate Halloween in fun and creative ways,” borough officials said. "There is something for everyone, whether you are looking for fall fun or a fright. We invite you to take part in this year’s events and to join us in making 2025 the best Spooktacular yet!”

For event details and costume forms, you can visit the Freehold Spooktacular website.

Organizers are still looking for volunteers to help with events, planning, lending a hand at the festivities, and even to be “haunters” in live scenes at the hayride. Community service hours can be given.

To volunteer, email spooktacularcostumeparade@gmail.com, and to find event details and contest forms, visit the Freehold Spooktacular website.