Central New York residents have a packed weekend of Halloween‑themed entertainment that blends fun, education, and community support. Whether you’re looking for a dinosaur adventure, a classic monster‑truck showdown, or a family‑friendly musical performance, the region’s venues have something for every age.
Jurassic Quest at the State Fairgrounds
From Friday through Sunday, the State Fairgrounds will host Jurassic Quest, a Halloween‑styled exhibit featuring life‑size moving dinosaurs. Visitors can ride a dinosaur, dig for fossils, meet baby dinosaurs, and even train a raptor. One ticket also grants access to the Frozen Frontier and Ancient Oceans exhibits, as well as the “sky‑scraping dinos.” Tickets are priced around $30 and can be purchased online.
Stampin’ Up Craft Supply Sale in Liverpool
Craft enthusiasts can support local animal shelters by attending the Stampin’ Up Craft Supply Sale this Saturday and Sunday at Humane CNY’s Liverpool location. The fundraiser runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and offers cardstock, rubber and photopolymer stamps, ink pads, markers, embellishments, and card‑making kits. All proceeds benefit regional shelters, providing much‑needed resources for animal care.
Monster Jam Returns to Syracuse
Saturday night, the JMA Wireless Dome will welcome Monster Jam for a Halloween‑themed truck show. The main event begins at 5 p.m., showcasing 12,000‑pound trucks competing in racing, skills, and freestyle contests. Fans can arrive early for the Pit Party, where drivers sign autographs and trucks are displayed up close. Tickets start at roughly $30 and are available online or at the Dome box office.
Haunted Orchestra Concert
The Syracuse Orchestra offers a family‑friendly, Halloween‑themed concert on Saturday at Inspiration Hall. The 30‑minute program features spooky classics such as the “Jaws” theme, “Dances of Transylvania,” and “This Is Halloween.” Performances are scheduled for 10:30 a.m. and noon, each followed by a costume contest with prizes. Tickets can be purchased online.
Zoo Boo at the Rosamond Gifford Zoo
The Rosamond Gifford Zoo invites visitors to its “kooky‑not‑spooky” Halloween celebration, Zoo Boo, on Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Guests are encouraged to dress in costume and bring treat bags for goodies. Activities include creepy‑crawly animal encounters, Halloween games, photo opportunities, and a costume parade. All Zoo Boo activities are included with general admission.
How to Share Your Events
Community members who wish to promote additional events can contact CNY Central via social media or email at [email protected].
These events provide safe, family‑oriented options for celebrating the season while supporting local charities and cultural institutions. Whether you’re a dinosaur enthusiast, a craft lover, or simply looking for a festive outing, Central New York’s weekend lineup has something to make the holiday memorable.
Original reporting: CNY Central WSTM (Sinclair) – local — read the source article.
