St. Helens, Oregon, a charming town nestled along the Columbia River, is renowned for its vibrant Halloween celebrations. Known for its picturesque scenery and historic charm, St. Helens transforms into a Halloween haven each October. The town’s unique blend of history, community spirit, and spooky activities makes it an ideal destination for Halloween enthusiasts. This guide provides a comprehensive look at what makes Halloween in St. Helens a truly memorable experience, from events and attractions to local lore and traditions.
Historical Background
St. Helens is a city rich in history and character, with its roots tracing back to the 19th century. The town’s historic district, featuring Victorian-era architecture and quaint streets, creates a perfect backdrop for Halloween festivities. Additionally, St. Helens gained fame as the filming location for the 1985 cult classic film “Halloweentown,” which has contributed to its reputation as a Halloween hotspot.
Top Halloween Events and Attractions
**1. *Halloweentown*
- Overview: Halloweentown is an annual Halloween festival that has become a hallmark of St. Helens. The event celebrates the town’s connection to the beloved 1980s movie and transforms the downtown area into a festive, spooky wonderland.
- Highlights:
- Spooky Decorations: The town’s streets and buildings are adorned with elaborate Halloween decorations, creating a magical and eerie atmosphere.
- Themed Events: Enjoy a range of activities including costume contests, pumpkin carving, haunted houses, and more.
- Meet-and-Greets: Meet characters from the Halloweentown movie and take photos in front of iconic sets and props.
**2. *St. Helens Haunted Walking Tour*
- Overview: Explore the darker side of St. Helens on a haunted walking tour that delves into the town’s spooky past and paranormal lore.
- Highlights:
- Historical Tales: Learn about St. Helens’ haunted history, including ghost stories and legends associated with its historic buildings.
- Interactive Experience: Guides share chilling stories and lead participants through eerie locations, adding an extra layer of excitement to the tour.
**3. *Halloween Parade and Street Fair*
- Overview: The Halloween Parade and Street Fair is a family-friendly event featuring a festive parade and various activities throughout the downtown area.
- Highlights:
- Costume Parade: Join the fun as locals and visitors alike dress up in creative costumes and participate in a lively parade.
- Street Fair: Enjoy vendor booths, food trucks, live entertainment, and children’s activities such as face painting and crafts.
**4. *Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze*
- Overview: Just outside of St. Helens, pumpkin patches and corn mazes offer a quintessential fall experience.
- Highlights:
- Pumpkin Picking: Choose the perfect pumpkin from a wide selection of sizes and shapes.
- Corn Maze: Navigate through a challenging and fun corn maze, perfect for families and groups.
**5. *Haunted House Attractions*
- Overview: Several haunted house attractions in and around St. Helens provide thrills and chills for those seeking a good scare.
- Highlights:
- Local Haunted Houses: Visit local haunted houses and escape rooms for a spine-tingling adventure. Each venue offers a unique and terrifying experience.
Local Lore and Ghost Stories
**1. *The Haunted Hotel*
- Overview: One of St. Helens’ historic hotels is rumored to be haunted, with reports of strange occurrences and ghostly apparitions.
- Stories: Guests have reported hearing unexplained noises, seeing shadowy figures, and experiencing eerie sensations in certain rooms.
**2. *The Old Schoolhouse*
- Overview: An old schoolhouse in St. Helens is said to be haunted by the spirits of former students and staff.
- Stories: Paranormal investigators have documented unexplained sounds and sightings in the building, adding to its reputation as a haunted location.
Tips for a Memorable Halloween Visit
**1. *Plan Ahead*
- Overview: Halloween in St. Helens is a popular time, so planning ahead ensures you can enjoy all the events and attractions without hassle.
- Tips: Book accommodations early, check event schedules, and purchase tickets in advance where necessary.
**2. *Dress Up*
- Overview: Embrace the Halloween spirit by dressing up in costumes for events, parades, and street fairs.
- Tips: Participate in costume contests and photo opportunities to make the most of your Halloween experience.
**3. *Explore the Local Cuisine*
- Overview: Enjoy Halloween-themed treats and local cuisine at various food vendors and restaurants in St. Helens.
- Tips: Try seasonal specialties such as pumpkin-flavored dishes and spooky sweets.
**4. *Stay Safe*
- Overview: Ensure a safe and enjoyable experience by following event guidelines and practicing common safety measures.
- Tips: Be aware of your surroundings, follow instructions at haunted attractions, and keep an eye on children during events.
Conclusion
Halloween in St. Helens, Oregon, offers a unique and enchanting experience for visitors of all ages. From its festive Halloweentown celebrations and haunted tours to its charming pumpkin patches and spooky lore, St. Helens provides a diverse array of activities and attractions that capture the essence of the Halloween season. Whether you’re a fan of classic horror, family-friendly fun, or historical ghost stories, St. Helens promises a memorable Halloween adventure in one of Oregon’s most picturesque towns.
