The Alexandria Mom’s Fall Edit | Your Guide to Halloween Events at ALX Libraries
Alexandria library Halloween events for October 21 - 31, 2026
Need an easy outing that doesn’t involve a big plan? Your local library has you covered.
From Halloween crafts and seasonal storytimes to creative activities and a few events just for adults, Alexandria’s libraries have plenty happening over the next week and a half.
Whether you’re looking for something to do with your little one, an after-school activity, or a little time out of the house for yourself, there’s something worth adding to the calendar.
A few things to know before you go:
Check each event listing for ages, registration requirements, and availability.
Some events may fill up, so it’s worth signing up ahead of time.
Double-check age requirements for movie screenings and the bicycle ride before making plans.
Last updated: October 20, 2026
✨Event details and availability can change. Check the organizer’s page before heading out.✨
Wednesday, October 21
Haunted Inns & Hotels
Wednesday, October 21 - October 23 | 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Virtual, hosted by Alexandria Library
Registration required
Prefer your spooky-season plans without leaving the couch? Author Susan Schwartz explores Virginia’s haunted lodging and the history behind the ghost stories in this online talk.
Friday, October 23
Halloween Trivia!
Friday, October 23 | 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Kingstowne Regional Library | Ages 7 – 10
Registration required
An after-school option for kids who love a good question-and-answer challenge, with Halloween history, monsters, and candy on the agenda.
Planning note: Register your child rather than the accompanying adult.
Teen Slime Lab
Friday, October 23 | 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
John Marshall Library | Ages 13 - 18
Registration required
Join us in making Halloween themed slime! Use your creativity and learn the science behind how slime is made. Ages 13-18. All materials provided. Registration encouraged, walk-ins welcome. Limited supplies.
Tuesday October 27
Baby & Toddler Halloween
Tuesday, October 27 | 11:00 am – 11:40 am
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library | Ages 0 - 23m
Seasonal songs, movement, and bubbles make this a little-kid-friendly Halloween outing; costumes are optional, and siblings are welcome.
A chance to get another wear out of that tiny costume? Worth considering.
Storytelling Spooktacular
Tuesday, October 27 | 6:00 pm – 6:45 pm
Charles E. Beatley Central Library | All ages
Slightly scary stories bring the seasonal fun to this family storytelling event.
"While all ages are invited, please note that the spookiness level of some stories may be more appealing to participants who are elementary-school age or older. Gentler stories will be told at the beginning of the program, while more spine-tingling tales will be reserved for later."
Wednesday, October 28
Monster-Themed Preschool Storytime
Wednesday, October 28 | 10:30 am – 11:00 am
John Marshall Library | Ages 3 - 5
Registration required
Stories, songs, and rhymes get a monster-themed twist for preschoolers.
Planning note: The event description encourages registration and welcomes walk-ins; reserve ahead when possible.
Just Babies: Happy Halloween
Wednesday, October 28 | 11:00 am – 12:30 pm
Kate Waller Barrett Branch Library | Ages 0 - 12m
Registration required
A Halloween-themed baby gathering combines songs, movement, simple baby yoga, and toy playtime.
Consider it a costume outing for your baby and a reason to get out of the house for you.
Film Screening: "Rocky Horror Picture Show"
Wednesday, October 28 | 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library | Ages 18+
The library’s Tim Curry tribute features The Rocky Horror Picture Show, rated R and restricted to adults because of mature content.
'
DIY Crystal Wrapping
Wednesday, October 28 | 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
James M. Duncan Jr. Branch Library
Choose a crystal and turn it into a wearable piece while learning about different crystals and their meanings.
For the person whose ideal seasonal outing involves making something rather than watching something, put this on your shortlist. Check with the branch about age suitability and participation requirements before heading over.
Thursday, October 29
Film Screening: "Practical Magic"
Thursday, October 29 | 2:00 pm – 3:45 pm
Ellen Coolidge Burke Branch Library | PG-13
An afternoon screening of Practical Magic offers a seasonal movie option for teens and adults.
Friday, October 30
Halloween Storytime & Parade!
Friday, October 30 | 11:00 am– 12:00 pm
Kingstowne Regional Library | Ages Birth - 5
Not-too-spooky stories and a costume parade give little ones another chance to dress up before Halloween night.
Spooky Slime
Friday, October 30 | 4:00 pm– 5:00 pm
Sherwood Regional Library | Ages 6 - 12
Registration required
Make a witch's brew, vampire's bloodbath, or creepy-crawly concoction.
Customize the color of your slime and add spooky decor (e.g., eyeball, insects).
Saturday, October 31
Le Tour d'Alexandria Library
Saturday, October 31 | 10:00 am– 12:30 pm
Charles E. Beatley Jr. Central Library | Ages 13+
Registration required
This approximately 13-mile bicycle ride visits library branches with a haunted-history theme; participants under 18 must ride with a parent or guardian.
Tarot-or-Treat
Saturday, October 31 | 3:00 pm– 4:30 pm
Martha Washington Library | Teens & Adults
Registration required
Explore tarot basics, color take-home cards, and finish with a simple reading from the presenters.
