1. Summary
Discover the best neighborhoods in Tacoma for safe and enjoyable Halloween trick or treating, along with alternative locations such as shopping malls and unique attractions. This guide highlights family-friendly areas and activities that will create memorable moments for everyone.
The Best Halloween Fun in T-Town
Not all neighborhoods in Tacoma are created equal when it comes to trick or treating and Halloween. In fact, many areas are downright sleepy on Halloween as more people head to local malls and special events to trick or treat rather than venture into their neighborhoods. However, this doesn’t mean there is nowhere left to go house to house! If you head to the right neighborhood, you’ll find plenty of people out and about. Below is a list of the best areas for safe and fun trick or treating, as well as neighborhood alternatives like local malls.
The Best Neighborhoods for Door-to-Door Treats
Proctor District – Each year, the shops and businesses of the Proctor District in North Tacoma host trick or treating, inviting kids from all around Tacoma. The streets are closed to traffic for a couple of hours, making it a festive environment. After the festivities, the neighborhood is also a great place to trick or treat house to house, with many homes decorating extensively.
Fircrest – Tucked into the middle of Tacoma, Fircrest is a small, safe town (actually a separate city from Tacoma) with a quaint atmosphere, beautiful houses, and family-friendly fun on Halloween. The Fircrest Community Center often has daytime events, and by night, the streets come alive with trick or treaters.
Stadium District – Similar to the Proctor District, the Stadium District features locally owned businesses that welcome trick or treaters. Once the festivities wrap up, head over to nearby Yakima Avenue—possibly the grandest place to trick or treat in all of Tacoma, showcasing historic mansions and large homes, albeit with varying participant turnout.
Gig Harbor Downtown and Uptown – Although Gig Harbor homes are often spread out, both downtown Gig Harbor (the Harbor area along the water) and Uptown (at 4701 Point Fosdick Drive) provide welcoming environments for trick or treaters.
Whitman Elementary Neighborhood – This area in South Tacoma, roughly bounded by S 38th and 48th Streets, sees significant participation from trick or treaters, especially along South K Street where many homes are elaborately decorated.
Silver Creek in Puyallup – For residents in the Puyallup area, the Silver Creek development is well lit, has ample sidewalks, and attracts plenty of trick or treaters who enjoy house-to-house visits.
Malls and Shopping Centers
Malls like Tacoma Mall, South Hill Mall in Puyallup, and Capital Mall in Olympia host trick or treating, perfect for younger children, especially on rainy Halloweens. These venues provide a safe alternative to traditional door-to-door methods.
The advantage is that children can candy hop without long walks between stops, staying warm and dry, while the stroller-friendly environment is a plus. However, it is worth noting that these events can become crowded, requiring kids to wait in lines at some stores.
Other Fun Places to Trick or Treat
Zoo Boo at Point Defiance Zoo – This event includes fun activities where animals receive pumpkins to play with while kids enjoy treats. Costumed visitors receive discounted admission, making it a delightful and non-scary option for children.
Hoot n Howl Northwest Trek – Similarly, Northwest Trek in Eatonville offers a Halloween event that’s not too spooky. Participate in a night tram ride in search of animals or trick or treat at stations throughout the park while enjoying games and live animal encounters. Costumes are encouraged!
Tacoma Art Museum – Throughout October, the museum generally hosts a Dia de los Muertos celebration featuring arts and crafts, music, dance performances, and themed art exhibitions. This event is perfect for family-friendly Halloween fun.
