Haunted Hamlet 2025 in Essex, NY, on Lake Champlain.

Just in time for Halloween, Essex becomes an enchanting village full of treats and a few fun tricks.

Essex’s Haunted Hamlet includes a carnival on Main Street. All photos courtesy the Town of Essex

In October, the picturesque town of Essex, NY, located on the shores of Lake Champlain, undergoes a spooky and fun transformation, becoming the Halloween capital of the Adirondacks.

Bewitching attractions and events.

Scary haunted graveyard. Photo credit Dana Cormier.

Discover the thrills of Essex’s Haunted Hamlet, featuring the iconic Haunted Town Hall.

Open from 4:30 to 8 pm, this attraction promises a spine-tingling experience for all.

If you prefer a “no scare” visit, make sure to come early from 2:30 to 4 pm. While the lights will be off, rest assured that no goblins will jump out to surprise you.

 It’s all happening at the Main Street Carnival.

Don’t miss the excitement of the Main Street Carnival, running from 2 pm to 8 pm. Savor delicious s’mores around the campfire, explore unique local craft vendors, and dance along to classic Halloween-inspired tunes during the monster mash. Join us for a festive and fun-filled day at Essex’s Haunted Hamlet!

Feeling artistic? Take part in Pumpkin Painting, sponsored by the Belden Noble Memorial Library behind Town Hall from 2 pm to 4 pm.

Smores! Photo credit. Dana Cormier

Local shops and restaurants will be open, including the

• Adirondack Art Association

• The Barn Door Tavern

• The Essex Inn

• Essex Book & Leaf

• The Essex Ice Cream Café,

• The Neighborhood Nest

• The Old Dock Restaurant & Marina,

• The Pink Pig Café & Cottage Antiques, an ADK Taste favorite

Haunted Hayride Tours and local food trucks round out the great things available to all who dare to visit The Haunted Hamlet. Indian Bay Pizza on Point, Irma’s Tamales and the ALWAYs popular Papa Dukes BBQ will all be on hand.

More fun at the library.

Families can also enjoy a spooky (or not-so-spooky) storytime with Petey the Snake at Belden Noble Memorial Library.

Petey will be on site all afternoon for Lil’ ADKers to meet and learn about Rinda (Petey's owner) will read stories at 2:30, 3:30, and 4:00.

The Belden Library will also host a book-inspired costume photo contest. Come dressed in a costume inspired by a book and get your picture taken. They will collect all the images and award prizes in various categories throughout the afternoon.

For more information, visit The Haunted Hamlet webpage and Facebook page

The Haunted Hamlet event is a collaboration between Essex Initiatives and the Town of Essex.

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