This Oregon Town Is the Real-Life Halloweentown — & it Goes All Out for Spooky Season

In 1998, Disney unveiled a cult classic that would forever change the way people viewed Halloween. “Halloweentown” introduced viewers to the enchanting world of Marnie Piper, a young witch discovering her magical heritage in a whimsical town filled with goblins, witches, and other fantastical creatures. St. Helens, Oregon, a serene community of fewer than 15,000 residents, served as the real-life backdrop for this magical tale.

Celebrating 25 Years of Halloweentown

Hosting the Spirit of Halloweentown events in September and October, St. Helens becomes a magnet for fans of the film and lovers of all things Halloween.

This year marks a significant milestone for St. Helens as it celebrates 25 years since the release of the iconic movie. To commemorate this special occasion, the town has organized a series of thrilling events.

Highlights of Halloweentown’s Festivities

Visitors to St. Helens can look forward to several spine-tingling, spooky-themed events. The Big Halloween Parade, scheduled for Oct. 7, promises extravagant costumes, captivating floats, and eerie displays. The Pumpkin Lighting Ceremony will illuminate the town’s grand pumpkin throughout the season. Halloweentown’s Haunted House, open on weekends and select weekdays until 8 p.m., offers a thrilling experience for brave souls. On Oct. 14, the Haunted Hot Rods car show will rev up the excitement with a day of special events. The official Disney fan club, D23, will host exclusive screenings of “Halloweentown” on Oct. 21.

Additional Information for a Halloweentown Visit

St. Helens officially transforms into Halloweentown from Sept. 16 to Oct. 31, with the most significant events obviously scheduled for October. The town enjoys lovely fall weather during this time, with average highs ranging from the mid-70s in September to the low 60s in October.

Accommodation options include lodges, home rentals, and nearby hotels. St. Helens is conveniently located just a 40-minute drive from Portland and approximately 2.5 hours from Seattle. Tickets for various events and attractions can be purchased on the Spirit of Halloweentown website.