CROSS RIVER, NY (September 23, 2025) — The Spooktacular Oktoberfest returns to Trailside Nature Museum at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation on Saturday, Oct. 25, offering a full day of Halloween-themed activities for families. Running from 1 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., the event features trick-or-treating, a costume contest, hay rides, a haunted house, crafts, and more. Tickets are $25 per person, with free admission for children ages three and under.
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Held in the Bergfield section of the reservation, the festival includes live music and food available for purchase until 8:30 p.m. Visitors can also enjoy a birds-of-prey presentation by professional falconer James Eyring, live animals from The Nature Company, and storytelling by professional storyteller David Neilsen.
Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins highlighted the event’s significance, saying, “The Spooktacular Oktoberfest has become a beloved fall tradition in Westchester, bringing families together to celebrate the season with a variety of Halloween activities, food and live music. It’s a wonderful way to experience the best of autumn right here in our community.”
Kathy O’Connor, Commissioner of the Westchester County Department of Parks, Recreation and Conservation, emphasized the venue’s appeal, stating, “Ward Pound Ridge Reservation is the largest park in our County system, and events like Spooktacular Oktoberfest highlight just how special it is. Each year the event grows in popularity and we’re proud to host in one of Westchester’s most beautiful settings.”
The event is rain or shine, with children’s activities concluding at 5:30 p.m. and available while supplies last. Free parking is provided. Trailside Nature Museum is located at the junction of Routes 35 and 121 South in Cross River.
This article was drafted with the aid of Grok, an AI tool by xAI, under the direction and editing of Robert Cox to ensure accuracy and adherence to journalistic standards.