Halloween is creeping closer, and Iâve found the perfect way to celebrate that hits all the right notes â literally. The Utah Symphonyâs Halloween Spooktacular is back, and itâs shaping up to be one of the most fun, family-friendly events of the season. If youâre looking for something different from the usual pumpkin patch or trunk-or-treat, this one is a total win.
đ¶ What to Expect
Picture this: the lights dim, the stage glows orange, and the first few notes of those eerie, familiar Halloween classics fill Abravanel Hall. The Utah Symphony takes some of the most iconic spooky tunes â the ones we all recognize from movies, cartoons, and even a few haunted houses â and brings them to life right in front of you.
Think of dramatic organ pieces, mysterious movie themes, and playful, slightly mischievous melodies that make the kids giggle and the grownups grin. Itâs spooky, not scary â more âHallow-funâ than Halloween horror. You get all the excitement of the season, but in a totally family-friendly, feel-good way.
đ» Pre-Show Festivities
The fun doesnât start when the conductor raises the baton â it starts the moment you walk in the door. Before the concert begins, families can enjoy Halloween-themed festivities in the lobby. Thereâs usually a costume contest (so yes, go full-out with those superhero capes and witch hats), photo ops, and plenty of happy chaos as kids compare costumes and show off their creativity.
This is one of those nights where you actually want to encourage your kids to dress up and soak in the excitement. The symphony staff leans into the holiday spirit â youâll see musicians in costume, festive decorations, and a welcoming, lighthearted vibe that makes everyone feel included.
If youâve got kids who are new to live performances, this is a great introduction. The pre-show fun helps get the wiggles out, and the concert itself keeps their attention with recognizable music and visual flair.
đ© Why the Symphony Makes a Magical Family Experience
Thereâs something truly special about live music. No screen, no soundtrack, no streaming app can recreate that goosebump moment when an entire orchestra comes alive. You feel it in your chest. You see every bow move, every note rise and fall, every sparkle in the conductorâs gestures.
And when your kids experience that for the first time â itâs pure magic. You can see the awe on their faces. They might not understand every note, but they feel it. And thatâs what makes it unforgettable.
Plus, a night at the symphony just feels special. You get to dress up (or dress spooky!), spend time together without distractions, and give your family a shared experience that stands out from the usual movie night or playground routine.
đžïž How to Join the Fun
Tickets for the Halloween Spooktacular can be purchased directly from the Utah Symphonyâs website or at Abravanel Hallâs box office. Itâs best to grab them early â this event tends to fill up fast, and for good reason.
Plan to arrive a little before showtime so you can enjoy the pre-concert activities, take pictures, and find your seats without rushing.
The Utah Symphonyâs Halloween Spooktacular is everything I love about fall wrapped up in one memorable night â costumes, music, laughter, and family time. Itâs a chance to celebrate Halloween in a creative, cultural, and totally entertaining way.
If youâre looking to trade jump scares for joy and candy chaos for real connection, this is your move. So grab your tickets, pull together your best costumes, and get ready for a night thatâs spooky, spectacular, and symphonically unforgettable.
the mommy avenger 
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