Halloween in Groningen 2025
When I think of Halloween, I immediately think of the American holiday: scary movies, carved pumpkins, going door-to-door in costume and creepy figures like clowns. Halloween is becoming increasingly popular in the Netherlands as well. You’ll see more parties with a Halloween theme and more decorations in the shops.
Read in this article about the best Halloween events in Groningen.
Halloween is, of course, all about spooky fun — for all ages. That’s why we have plenty of things to do for different age groups.
Halloween at Nienoord Amusement Park
Children can go wild in a haunted water castle and other spooky attractions, designed especially for young visitors. At Nienoord Amusement Park there’s plenty to experience in the Halloween theme. Parents can also enjoy the enchanting atmosphere. A perfect day for families who want to experience Halloween together.
Halloween at Tenaxx Estate
Special events are organised here for different age groups. For example, there’s the thrilling scare walk Jurassic Nightmare. For the very youngest it’s playful and cosy; for older children and teens it can be a bit more intense. A place where Halloween truly comes to life. Experience it now at the Tenaxx Estate.
Tip: The grounds lend themselves well to atmospheric walking routes. Bring a small torch (not too bright) and you’ll be in the mood right away.
Spooking with Music
Everyone knows you can get a good scare from Halloween films, of course. But did you know that music alone can make you deliciously shiver too?
Halloween Horror and Orchestral Nightmares – North Netherlands Orchestra
On 31 October, the concert hall transforms into a world full of musical tension and mystery. This concert shows how music can keep you on the edge of your seat: how a slowly building chord gives you goosebumps, and how whispering strings make your skin tingle. From classical masterpieces to modern film scores — this programme reveals how music brings horror to life. Risto Joost conducts the orchestra with masterful timing and a sense of suspense, taking you from subtle unease to moments of pure horror. Through the interplay of light, sound and music, this concert becomes a fully immersive experience — not only to hear, but also to feel.
Repalje – A Celtic Halloween
Repalje – A Celtic Halloween celebrates their 30th anniversary this year. These professional musicians are known not only for their musical qualities, but certainly also for the cheerful chaos they bring everywhere. From a fire bagpipe to a T-shirt cannon: the audience is surprised at every show.
Groningen is bursting with Halloween events, so be sure to take a look at what the city has to offer during these cold, dark days…
Halloween at Home
Besides going out to get a good scare, you can of course bring the thrills into your own home. And what better way than carving your own pumpkin? Put it outside with a tealight in the evening: that’s what really creates a spooky atmosphere. It’s super fun to make at home — and we’ll explain how to do it best!
DIY: Pumpkin Carving
Buying a Pumpkin
Start by buying a large, firm and round (orange) pumpkin. It helps if the pumpkin has a flat bottom so it stands stably. Make sure there are no soft spots; those will mould faster. You can buy the perfect pumpkins at Hofje van Harkstede.
Preparation
Make sure your workspace can get messy — carving pumpkins can get a bit chaotic. Wash your pumpkin and dry it well; this helps the marker adhere. Using a marker is our ultimate tip: you won’t see the lines after carving anyway and this way you can easily cut out your figure. First draw the lid and then cut it out with a sharp knife on a slant (inwards). This prevents the lid from falling back into the pumpkin later.
Hollowing the Pumpkin
Arguably the most annoying, but also the most important part. You want to hollow out the entire pumpkin properly, otherwise it will mould quickly. First cut the hard pieces loose so they’re easier to remove. Then scoop everything out with a spoon; the pulp, in particular, comes out easily with a spoon. Make sure you thoroughly hollow out the inner wall. The drier and smoother the inside, the longer your pumpkin will stay beautiful.
Tip: Aim for about 1.5–2 cm (½–¾ inch) wall thickness: sturdy enough, yet thin enough to glow nicely.
Drawing the Face
After the heavy lifting comes the fun part: drawing the pumpkin’s face! Let your creativity run free. Will it be a friendly smile, or are you going for jagged teeth and a sinister grin?
Carving
Happy with your design? Time to carve. Use a sharp knife, cut slowly along the lines and remove the loose pieces. Wipe away any marker residue and clean the pumpkin.
Finishing Touches
Place a tealight (preferably in a small glass jar) or a LED tealight inside the pumpkin, put the lid back on and set your pumpkin outside by the front door. Passers-by can now fully enjoy your spooky decoration.
Tip: Save the pumpkin seeds: rinse them, season with salt/paprika and roast in the oven. Delicious snack.
Workshop Tip: Pumpkin Carving Without the Mess
Feeling enthusiastic about pumpkin carving, but not keen on bringing the gunk into your home? Then there’s a special pumpkin-carving activity for children at the Waddenkust Visitor Centre in Pieterburen. This activity is for children aged 8–12 and is free. All materials are ready for you to create your scariest pumpkin. Younger brother or sister? No problem! Let them craft a mask or decorate a colouring sheet.
Getting Spooked on the Sofa
Are you completely excited about Halloween now? So are we! There’s nothing more fun than having a good scare from time to time. And for those who prefer to stay warm at home on the sofa: put on a scary movie to keep the chills going anyway. Will it be A Quiet Place, Chucky or The Nightmare Before Christmas? One thing is certain: it’s going to be spooky either way!
