October in the Oldest City: Embrace the Spirit of St. Augustine, FL

by Kevin Howard

Halloween in St. Augustine is a blend of historical charm and supernatural intrigue, making it the ultimate October destination. With its centuries-old streets, historic buildings, and infamous haunted locations, the city offers an array of spooky and fun events that cater to both locals and visitors. If you want to experience the true spirit of Halloween in St. Augustine, this blog will show you the best activities and places to visit.

GhoSt Augustine Tours

For those seeking a more profound paranormal experience, GhoSt Augustine offers some of the best ghost tours around. The Everdark Express Shadow Shuttle takes you to some of the city's darkest and most haunted locations. What sets these tours apart is the use of advanced ghost-hunting equipment and intimate group sizes, making each tour feel like a personal paranormal investigation.

Location: GhoSt Augustine, 162 St. George St. #19
Dates: Throughout October & November 2024
Times: Tours available nightly from 8:00 PM

If you're serious about ghost-hunting, consider booking a late-night tour for heightened supernatural activity.

Mortality & Mourning Candlelight Tours

The Ximenez-Fatio House Museum offers a hauntingly beautiful tour focusing on the customs of death and mourning in the 19th century. The flickering candlelight sets a macabre tone as you explore the house, learning about Victorian mourning rituals and ghost stories from its former inhabitants.

Location: Ximenez-Fatio House Museum, 20 Aviles St.
Dates: Friday & Saturday evenings through October 26, 2024
Times: Tours at 6:30 PM and 7:30 PM

Over 100,000 visitors tour the Ximenez-Fatio House annually, drawn by its eerie history.

Jail Break 5K & Halloween Costume Contest

Participate in the Jail Break 5K, an exciting race where participants attempt to “escape” from the Old Jail. Runners are encouraged to wear Halloween costumes, adding a festive and competitive element to the race.

Location: Old Jail Museum, 167 San Marco Ave.
Date: October 19th, 2024
Time: 8:00 AM start time, costume contest immediately after the race

Don't underestimate the Florida heat in October—stay hydrated during the run!

Dark & Stormy Night Storytelling

If you love suspenseful storytelling, the Dark and Stormy Night Storytelling event at Limelight Theatre is perfect. Local storytellers spin thrilling and ghostly tales in an intimate, dimly lit setting that enhances the suspense.

Location: Limelight Theatre, 11 Old Mission Ave.
Date: October 23rd, 2024
Time: 7:30 PM

The Limelight Theatre hosts more than 50 storytelling events each year, drawing both locals and tourists.

Trick-or-Treat Harvest Festival

Families can enjoy the Trick-or-Treat Harvest Festival at the Ximenez-Fatio House Museum. Children can participate in safe, fun Halloween activities while enjoying the historical setting of St. Augustine’s old town.

Location: Ximenez-Fatio House Museum, 20 Aviles St.
Date: October 26th, 2024
Time: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Arrive early to avoid the crowds and enjoy more activities with your little ones.

Ancient City Brewing Boos & Brews 5K & Fun Run

For those who want to balance fitness with fall fun, the Boos & Brews 5K is the perfect event. Runners of all skill levels can dress up in Halloween costumes and enjoy a fun run followed by celebrations at Ancient City Brewing Company.

Location: Ancient City Brewing, 3420 Agricultural Center DR.
Date: October 26th, 2024
Time: 5:00 PM start time

Nearly 500 participants join the Boos & Brews event each year, raising money for local charities.

Ghastly, Gory Ghost Stories

This event at Ponte Vedra Library showcases some of St. Augustine’s more sinister stories, from unsolved murders to gruesome historical events. It’s perfect for history buffs who enjoy a darker side to local lore.

Location: Ponte Vedra Library, 101 Library Blvd, Ponte Vedra Beach
Date: October 29th, 2024
Time: 5:30 PM

While this event is fascinating, it’s not for the faint of heart. Expect some unsettling tales of St. Augustine’s haunted past.

Old Jail After Dark

The Old Jail After Dark Tour lets you explore one of St. Augustine’s most notorious landmarks at night. Use ghost-hunting equipment to search for signs of spirits from the jail’s disturbing history.

Location: Old Jail Museum, 167 San Marco Ave.
Dates: Throughout October & November 2024
Times: Tours start at midnight

The Old Jail houses more than 50 paranormal sightings annually, making it a hot spot for ghost enthusiasts.

St. Augustine Lighthouse Ghost Tours

Climbing the St. Augustine Lighthouse at night is both thrilling and eerie. Known as one of the most haunted spots in the city, the lighthouse is home to several ghost stories. You might even glimpse a wandering spirit as you ascend its winding staircase.

Location: St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum, 100 Red Cox Drive
Dates: October 1st - October 31st, 2024
Times: Tours start at 7:30 PM

If you’re afraid of heights, this tour might not be for you—there are 219 steps to the top!

Conclusion

October in St. Augustine is unlike any other time of year. From haunted tours and eerie ghost stories to family-friendly festivals, this city offers an unforgettable experience for everyone. St. Augustine’s rich history blends perfectly with Halloween’s supernatural vibe, making it the perfect destination for a fall getaway. Don’t miss out on making this October one to remember in St. Augustine!