You’ll find Maine’s most thrilling Halloween destinations in historic coastal towns that come alive each October with supernatural celebrations. Bucksport’s 15-year Ghostport Festival transforms downtown with paranormal parades and pumpkin trebuchets, while Boothbay Harbor’s Ghost Train takes you on spine-tingling 30-minute rides through cemeteries. Castine offers waterfront ghost tours exploring Revolutionary War hauntings, and Skowhegan hosts free walking tours of haunted landmarks. Augusta’s Paranormal Convention even features the infamous Annabelle doll. These ghostly gatherings blend rich maritime history with hair-raising entertainment that’ll keep you captivated all season long.
Key Takeaways
- Bucksport hosts a 15-year Ghostport Festival each Halloween with paranormal parades, coffin races, and pumpkin trebuchet launches into Penobscot River.
- Boothbay Harbor’s Railway Village runs annual Ghost Train rides through cemeteries with zombies, plus haunted hayrides and ghost walk tours.
- Castine offers seasonal haunted walking tours exploring Revolutionary War history, maritime ghost tales, and waterfront supernatural sites for $45 adults.
- Skowhegan presents free Shadows of the Past Ghost Tours each October, exploring haunted Water Street landmarks Friday and Saturday evenings.
- Augusta hosts an annual Paranormal & Horror Convention each September featuring the Annabelle doll, Warren’s Occult Museum items, and investigation panels.
Bucksport’s Ghostport Festival: A 15-Year Halloween Tradition
For 15 years, the Ghostport Festival has transformed downtown Bucksport into Maine’s ultimate Halloween destination, drawing thousands of costumed revelers to its scenic waterfront each October. You’ll find endless ghost costume ideas as you wander Main Street, where the Paranormal Parade showcases creative Halloween parade themes led by Bucksport High School’s marching band.
The festival’s roots run deep—it’s tied to the legendary Cursed Tomb of Colonel Buck and its mysterious witch-burning stain. You can participate in trunk-or-treat sessions, watch pumpkins launch into the Penobscot River via trebuchet, and race coffins along the waterfront.
With free admission, haunted houses, pumpkin carving contests, and views of Fort Knox, you’ll experience authentic New England Halloween spirit without constraints. The event connects visitors to a broader Halloween event network throughout the region. The day also features a special screening of Rocky Horror Picture Show, adding a cult classic movie experience to the spooky festivities.
Boothbay Harbor’s Spooky Celebrations and Ghost Train Adventures
As twilight descends over Boothbay Railway Village each October, the annual Ghost Train event transforms this historic railroad museum into a moonlit journey through Maine’s most enchanting Halloween experience. You’ll encounter enchanted cemeteries and zombies during 30-minute departures starting at 4:30 p.m., with spookier rides after 7 p.m. for thrill-seekers.
The Railway SPOOK-tacular offers daytime family fun with trick-or-treat stations and carnival games, while haunted hayrides complement evening adventures. Your ticket serves as a passport to navigate the railway village, where you can enjoy trick-or-treating throughout the grounds.
Downtown Boothbay Harbor hosts spooky costume parades along Townsend Avenue, where maritime-themed floats celebrate local heritage.
You can join 90-minute ghost walks through haunted history for $31.82, exploring shipwrecks and paranormal tales. These proceeds support the nonprofit museum, letting you celebrate freedom while preserving Maine’s railroad legacy. The train crew features memorable characters including Casey Bones and conductor Frankenstein, adding theatrical charm to your Halloween adventure.
Castine’s Historic Haunted Walking Tours Along the Waterfront
While Boothbay Harbor captivates visitors with its railway museum thrills, the coastal village of Castine beckons history enthusiasts to experience Maine’s Revolutionary War past through spine-tingling ghost tours along its picturesque waterfront.
Castine’s ghost tours blend Revolutionary War history with supernatural intrigue along Maine’s haunting waterfront promenades.
You’ll explore haunted maritime tales of lost sea captains and Revolutionary War soldiers during these one-hour evening adventures throughout October. The tours showcase historic architecture, including British Fort George and notable waterfront buildings, all from the comfort of a golf cart named Scarlett—no walking required.
At $45 for adults and $30 for children, these family-friendly excursions depart from the town dock with trained volunteer guides who’ve mastered local lore. The tours also include stops at the local lighthouse, where guides share extensive knowledge about the town’s maritime heritage. Attractions along the route feature the site of Castine’s Little Drummer Boy and other well-known hauntings that have captivated local residents for generations.
You’ll even receive cocktail service at Pentagoet Inn with your ticket. Book private events or drop in freely—your choice, your adventure, supporting community organizations while discovering Castine’s supernatural secrets.
Skowhegan’s Shadows of the Past Ghost Tour Experience
Each October, Skowhegan’s historic Water Street transforms into an atmospheric stage where Lights Up Productions presents their acclaimed free walking tour, Shadows of the Past. You’ll explore haunted historic landmarks beginning at 6 p.m. from the Skowhegan Opera House, weaving through shadowy streets that blend local folklore with authentic community memories.
This living history experience draws you past sites like the Old Mill Pub while sharing backstage tales from the Park Street Players era and spine-tingling stories connected to Strand Cinema’s resident ghosts. You’re free to enjoy vintage photos, architectural insights, and personal accounts that reveal Skowhegan’s cultural heritage. The tour operates on both Friday and Saturday evenings throughout the haunted season. For those seeking additional haunted history experiences, Red Cloak Haunted History Tours in nearby Bath offers complementary ghost tour options.
With 187 participants attending the 2024 tour, you’ll discover why this donation-supported event continues expanding. Visit lightsupskowhegan.org for complete tour schedules and experience central Maine’s most compelling haunted history adventure.
Augusta’s Maine Paranormal and Horror Convention Extravaganza
From Skowhegan’s historic walking tours, Maine’s paranormal offerings expand dramatically each September when the Augusta Civic Center hosts the Maine Paranormal and Horror Convention.
You’ll discover paranormal exhibits featuring the real Annabelle doll from the Warren’s Occult Museum, alongside horror celebrity panels that bring Ed and Lorraine Warren’s investigations to life.
This two-day gathering delivers:
- Face-to-face encounters with the infamous haunted Annabelle doll before she returns to Connecticut
- Spine-chilling vendor halls packed with supernatural artifacts and macabre collectibles
- Expert panels discussing ghost hunters’ tales and haunted object investigations
- Immersive experiences designed to terrify and inspire paranormal enthusiasts
- Freedom to explore at your own pace without age restrictions
The convention’s 4.60 rating from 262 reviews confirms you’re choosing Maine’s ultimate supernatural gathering this September 6th and 7th. The event is part of the Devils on the Run tour, which travels to legendary haunted locations including Gettysburg, New Orleans, and the West Virginia Penitentiary.
Located at 76 Community Dr, the Augusta Civic Center provides convenient access with nearby coffee spots and local hotspots for visitors looking to explore between sessions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Pets Allowed at These Maine Halloween Events and Ghost Tours?
Pet policies aren’t specified for these thrilling Maine ghost tours and Halloween events. You’ll need to contact organizers directly about bringing your furry companion along. Animal interactions remain unclear—reach out before planning your paranormal adventure!
What Hotels or Accommodations Are Available Near These Ghost Town Events?
You’ll find nearby lodging options like Pentagöet Inn in Castine and downtown Portland hotels near Thompson’s Point. Augusta accommodations surround the Civic Center, while Parafest’s mill location requires local searches for your perfect stay!
Do These Events Continue if There Is Rain or Bad Weather?
Rain won’t dampen your haunted adventure! Most events lack official weather postponements, but you’ll find indoor alternatives like Farmington Fright Fest’s sheltered walk-throughs. Outdoor ghost walks typically brave the elements—adding atmospheric chills to your spine-tingling experience!
Are Advance Tickets Required or Can Admission Be Purchased Onsite?
Most events offer onsite ticket purchase with immediate availability, so you’re free to decide last-minute! However, popular ghost tours like Portland Old Port often sell out—booking ahead guarantees your spot while keeping spontaneous options open.
Which Events Are Wheelchair Accessible for Visitors With Mobility Limitations?
Like bridges connecting all adventurers to history’s mysteries, you’ll find wheelchair-accessible pathways at Bucksport’s Ghostport and Portland’s Wicked Walking Tours! Adaptive facilities guarantee you’ll experience Maine’s haunted heritage freely, with minimal barriers stopping your paranormal exploration journey!
References
- https://z1073.com/bucksport-ghostport/
- https://www.augustaciviccenter.org/events/maine-paranormal-and-horror-convention
- https://www.americanghostwalks.com/halloween-in-boothbay-harbor-parades-parties-spooky-fun
- https://pentagoet.com/festivals-in-maine
- https://www.halloweennewengland.com/events/ghostport-bucksport-me
- https://www.mainehauntedhouses.com
- https://www.ogunquit.org/ogunquitfest/
- https://untamedmainer.com/maine-2025-festivals/
- https://lightsupskowhegan.org/event/skowhegan-ghost-tour-shadows-of-the-past/
- https://deborahjhughes.blog/2017/10/23/ghostport-in-bucksport/
