Even though the prime boating season is behind us for 2023, there are still plenty of ways to stay involved with boating culture throughout the fall. One exciting option is to participate in one of the dockside trick-or-treating events that are taking place across the United States this Halloween.
Whether you’re able to hand out treats yourself or you simply want to enjoy a fall evening along the water, consider checking out one of the following events – and bring the whole family along!
Tampa Riverwalk Trick or Treat
If you’re in the West Central Florida area, the 7th Annual Tampa Riverwalk Trick or Treat will take place October 28th from 4 – 7 p.m. This is a free community event where children can trick or treat along the iconic Tampa Riverwalk between Water Works Park and MacDill Park. Along the route, enjoy DJs, food trucks, and photo opportunities for the entire family.
Make sure you catch the kids and pets costume contest at 5 p.m. at Water Works Park, and at 6:30 p.m. you can catch the Halloween Lighted Boat Parade passing along the Hillsborough River.
Canyon Lake Annual Dock-or-Treat
Those in the Southern California community of Canyon Lake can take part in the city’s 3rd Annual Dock-or-Treat event on Saturday, October 21st from 6 – 8 p.m. This is a true dockside trick-or-treating event where participants can travel by boat along the main lake and East Bay to stop by various trick-or-treating docks.
The event hosts encourage festive decorations on participating boats and docks, and for all guests to dress up in costume.
Trick or Treat the Dory Fleet
In the coastal town of Pacific City, Oregon, the Trick or Treat the Dory Fleet event is back for another year of Halloween festivities on October 28th from 5 –7 p.m. at the Kiawanda Community Center. Both locals and visitors alike are invited to take part in this festive family-friendly tradition.
Participants of all ages will get to travel from boat to boat, which local fishermen have converted into spooky vessels full of candy and treats. The event has free admission and will feature live music and fun games and activities for the whole family.
Boo on the Boat
October 27 – 29, the National Museum of the Great Lakes in Toledo, Ohio is hosting a “Boo on the Boat” trick-or-treating event aboard two of the city’s historic haunted ships. Hours of operation are 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. on Sunday.
Participants can climb aboard the Col. James M. Schoonmaker Museum Ship and the Museum Tug Ohio for a scavenger hunt and trick-or-treating in costume. Children will get to learn about the history of the Great Lakes while enjoying a festive afternoon with their families. Make sure to reserve your tickets in advance if you are not a museum member.
