This Weekend in the Blackstone Valley: Oct. 23-25, 2026
The last full weekend of October, and the Halloween season is in full swing. Here are my picks for Friday, Oct. 23 through Sunday, Oct. 25 around the Blackstone Valley. Times and prices can change, so check the organizer's page before you head out.
Free ranger hikes at Purgatory Chasm (Sutton)
All weekend, DCR rangers lead free programs at Purgatory Chasm State Reservation, 198 Purgatory Rd. Chasm hikes run Friday 11 AM and Saturday and Sunday at 2 PM. For kids (ages 4+): Rock Detectives on Saturday at 11 AM and "Secrets of the Skull" on Sunday at 11 AM, a good one for Halloween week. Free, no registration. DCR notes programs can change; call (508) 234-9610 to confirm. Program schedule (PDF)
The Great Jack O'Lantern Journey (Mendon)
Thousands of carved, lit pumpkins along a walking trail at Southwick's Zoo, 2 Southwick St. Open Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 5 to 9 PM, through Nov. 1. Tickets at the gate are $25 for adults and $15 for kids 3 to 12 (a little less online); 2 and under are free. Fridays and Saturdays add face painting and tarot readings. Tickets and details
Food trucks and a free concert at Chase Farm (Lincoln, RI)
Saturday, 3:30 to 6 PM, at Chase Farm, 667 Great Rd. The Kenny Hopkins Band plays, with food trucks and local beer and wine. Free to get in; you pay for food and drinks. Put on by PVD Food Truck Events with Lincoln Parks & Rec. Event listing
Free sensory-friendly trunk-or-treat (Lincoln, RI)
Saturday, noon to 4 PM, at Success On The Spectrum, 6 Blackstone Valley Pl. Candy, snacks, games and a trunk-decorating contest, autism-friendly and open to kids of all ages and abilities. Free. Event listing
The Vampire Circus (Woonsocket, RI)
For the grown-ups: a touring Halloween horror-cirque show with acrobatics at the Stadium Theatre, 28 Monument Square, Friday and Saturday at 8 PM. Ticket prices weren't posted by the theatre when I checked; resale listings started around $55. Ticket listing
Thinking about a move in the new year? The Blackstone Valley's mix of farms, trails and small downtowns is a big part of why people move here. If you want to know what homes are selling for in your town, text me at 508-821-8835.
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