Autumn is settling in Haute-Savoie, bringing with it the desire to play with shadows, to enjoy time with family or friends… and why not celebrate a little bit of Halloween spirit in the mountains! Here is an overview of original outing ideas across the department, blending nature, creative activities, thrills, and conviviality.
1. Creative workshops & activities for little monsters
So that children (and adults too) get into the mood, Haute-Savoie offers several fun activities:
- In Combloux: a “Halloween Pumpkins” workshop to carve red kuri and pumpkins from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., then enjoy a soup made from the pumpkin flesh.
- Also in Combloux: a free face painting workshop for children, no reservation required.
- In Morillon: from October 20 to November 2, 2025, a pumpkin carving workshop at the Lac Bleu Animation Chalet.
- In Arâches-la-Frasse: on October 31, from 2:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., Halloween face painting for children.
Practical tips
- Reserve or inquire at the station’s Tourist Office, some activities are free but limited in number.
- Remember warm clothing: mountain workshops can be chilly even during the day.
- For children, bring a simple costume or accessory (cape, hat): it adds to the magic!
2. Shows, tales & spooky walks
For lovers of mild or strong sensations, here are outings that are more “show” or “nocturnal adventures”:
- In Samoëns: “Horror Tales by Lantern,” scary stories by the light of lanterns under the mountain night sky.
- In Seynod: a Halloween storytelling evening (from 2 years old) with snack, candy distribution, and costumes encouraged.
- In Brenthonne: “Halloween Murder Party at Avully Castle,” haunted castle atmosphere, costume strongly recommended.
- In Châtel: “Fracassus Magicum” show, October 31 from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m., a mix of magic, humor, and thrills.
- Torchlight walk on the Salève: at dusk, between undergrowth and a mysterious atmosphere.
Note
- For nighttime outings, prefer mountain or hiking shoes (terrain can be slippery).
- Check times and weather conditions – some events may be postponed.
- Encourage the family to dress up, it really creates an atmosphere!
3. Nature outings & autumn atmosphere
Because Haute-Savoie is also made for escapes into nature, here are some ideas that combine autumn, calm, a slightly mysterious atmosphere, perfect for Halloween:
- At the Sources of Lake Annecy: forest walks, marshes or along the lake, where mist, falling leaves, and the whisper of the undergrowth create a magical atmosphere at this time of year.
- At Clermont Castle (town of Clermont), decorated for the occasion with pumpkins, mysterious creatures, ghosts, from October 18 to November 2, 2025.
Family Tip: Bring a water bottle, a flashlight, gloves for children (the ground is often damp). And why not a small basket to collect leaves, chestnuts or natural items to bring back as souvenirs!
4. Adult evenings & festive atmosphere
For adults looking for a more festive atmosphere – here is a must:
- In Lumia (Bonneville): “Halloween Night 2025 – 2 nights of terror,” infernal decor, performers, horror screen show, costume contest. Adults only.
Prepare the evening
- Costume strongly recommended (often entry is free or discounted if in costume).
- Think about return transport or nearby accommodation if the evening ends late.
- Don’t neglect the “responsible” element: plan your trip, drink moderately.
5. How to best prepare your outing
- Check the websites of tourist offices or organizers for exact times and registration conditions.
- In the mountains, weather is more changeable in autumn: bring a warm jacket, head covering, appropriate shoes.
- For children: simple costume + flashlight for some nighttime activities.
- Consider accommodation or means of return transport if you leave late or go to a remote place.
- Halloween atmosphere yes, but respect for places and heritage (resorts, forests, historic monuments).
6. Why celebrate Halloween in Haute-Savoie?
The region has a unique advantage: it combines spectacular nature, lively mountain resorts and authentic villages, which makes Halloween events even more magical. The undergrowth becomes mysterious, the mountain pastures blaze with autumnal colors, and the resorts take advantage of this period to offer family activities before the winter season.
Furthermore, choosing an outing in the mountains or nature allows for magnificent photos, fresh air, a moment different from the typical urban experience. For families, it’s also a good excuse to extend the weekend and combine relaxation, discovery, and celebration.
Whether you are with family, friends, or as a couple, Haute-Savoie offers you a nice range of options to celebrate Halloween in style: creativity, nature, thrills or party – the choice of atmosphere is yours!
