City Announces Halloween Trick or Treat Hours; Rec Department Hosts Free Fall Family Fun Fest

The City of Portsmouth Recreation Department has events and activities scheduled to celebrate fall and Halloween, culminating with the City’s Halloween trick-or-treat hours of 5 to 8 pm on Thursday, October 30, 2025. The Portsmouth Police Department reminds everyone to watch out for trick-or-treaters and the increased traffic on the roads that evening. Other City events and activities include:

• Haunted Trail: On Friday, October 17 from 4 to 7 pm (weather permitting) at the Community Campus, a self-guided Family Friendly Spooky Walk with no haunts. Free parking is available in the main parking lot in front of the building. This event is free; no reservation is required. 
• 5th Annual Fall Family Fun Fest: On Saturday, October 25 from 11 am to 2 pm at the Community Campus grass field (behind pickleball courts). Costumes are encouraged. Participants will enjoy music, games, food trucks, touch-a-truck, and more fun for the whole family. This event is free; no reservation required.
• Senior Activity Center Halloween Party: On Friday, October 31 from 3 to 4 pm at the Senior Activity Center (125 Cottage Street). Come dressed in costume, festive Halloween, or Autumn attire. Entertainer Rockin’ Randy Hawkes will play fun tunes. Treats will be provided by the Senior Activity Center. Ages 50+ welcome. This event is free; no reservation required.

For details on all the events, visit: portsnh.co/recreation. 

The independently organized Portsmouth Halloween Parade takes place on Friday, October 31, 2025 at 7 pm. For details including parking restrictions and road closures go to their website: PortsmouthHalloweenParade.org. 

Image: October evening in Market Sq. Credit David J. Murray, ClearEyePhoto.com