It’s that time of year again, the air is crisp, the pumpkins are out, and Ipswich is getting ready to celebrate Halloween in true Ips-witch style! Whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun or something a little more spine-tingling, there’s plenty happening around town this October.
Here are some of our favourite Halloween-themed events to check out, for the full range of seasonal events, check out the All About Ipswich “Ips-witch” trip
For something laid-back but still seasonal, King Street Cinema is serving up Halloween chills on the big screen. This much-loved independent cinema always knows how to set the mood, and this event is no different! Horror fans are invited to head down to the cinema’s on-site bar on the 31st of October at 6pm, for a chance to soak up the spooky atmosphere, enjoy a Halloween-inspired cocktail and listen to live music from local singer-songwriter Phil Jackson. The film will begin at 7:30pm and features around 14 minutes of additional, unseen footage – so it’s perfect for those film buffs in your life!
Why not take a walk through Ipswich’s darker history? Running from 29th to 31th October, ‘Gory Stories of Crime and Punishment’ takes you on a guided tour through the town’s most chilling true tales. From grisly crimes to eerie punishments, this walk proves that Ipswich’s history has its fair share of shadows.
It’s a great mix of storytelling, local history, and Halloween atmosphere- perfect for anyone who prefers intrigue to jump scares. Just make sure to wear comfy shoes and maybe bring someone to hold onto! Suitable for adults and children ages 8 and above!
Find out more here
Looking for a Halloween activity with a twist? Head to The Hold in Ipswich for Suffolk’s Criminal Past Exhibition (24th October–17th January, 10am–5pm, Mon–Sat), where Suffolk Archives delve into the county’s dark and lawless history. Discover chilling tales like the Red Barn Murder, the Acton Dumpling Murderess, and Suffolk’s last public execution, and see Margaret Catchpole’s letters from exile on display in the UK for the first time. With walks, talks, and workshops exploring crime and punishment through the ages, this free exhibition offers a fascinatingly eerie way to spend the season.
From discovering chilling tales to cosying up for a spooky screening at King Street Cinema, Ipswich is packed with Halloween fun this year! Whether you’re carving pumpkins, exploring haunted history, or just chasing that autumn magic, there’s something for everyone – big kids, little kids, and witches of all ages.
Don’t fancy any of these? Check out the full list of events this spooky season here!
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