Looking for the best Halloween events in the Cowichan Valley this October? From spooky train rides and haunted houses to pumpkin patches and family-friendly celebrations, there's plenty happening throughout Duncan, North Cowichan, Cobble Hill and surrounding Vancouver Island communities.
There's something wonderful about fall in the Cowichan Valley. The changing colours, crisp mornings, roadside farm stands and neighbourhoods decorated for Halloween make October a beautiful time to get out and explore.
Whether you're planning an afternoon with the kids, hoping for a good scare or simply looking for something fun to do close to home, we've rounded up some of the best Halloween events and fall activities in the Cowichan Valley for 2026.
1. Halloween Train at the BC Forest Discovery Centre – Duncan
Location: 2892 Drinkwater Road, Duncan
Dates: October 16–20, 23–26 and 28–30, 2026
Hours: 3:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m.
One of the Cowichan Valley's most beloved Halloween traditions is back!
The BC Forest Discovery Centre's Halloween Train transforms the historic grounds into a festive experience for the entire family.
Climb aboard for a spooky train ride, enjoy Halloween crafts in the schoolhouse, visit trick-or-treat stations and take in live entertainment. There are also fire pits for warming up and hot chocolate available for purchase.
Costumes are encouraged, and younger children may prefer visiting before dark when the atmosphere is a little less spooky.
Admission: $20 for adults, seniors and youth; $18 for children ages 3–12; free for children two and under. Additional service fees apply.
Why we love it: It's a genuine Cowichan Valley tradition that brings families together year after year.
Important: Tickets are sold online only, with limited spaces for each train departure.
Tickets and information: https://bcforestdiscoverycentre.com/events/
2. The Big Shop of Horrors – Duncan
Location: Cowichan Exhibition Park, 7380 Trans-Canada Highway, Duncan
Dates: Select evenings October 15–30, 2026
If you're looking for a haunted house in Duncan, The Big Shop of Horrors deserves a spot on your Halloween calendar.
This locally organized haunted attraction is designed for visitors who enjoy an exciting Halloween experience, with elaborate decorations, themed rooms and plenty of surprises.
Even better, the event is run by a nonprofit society that raises money for local charities, including Cowichan Valley food banks.
The attraction also offers special behind-the-scenes experiences on October 18 and 25, designed to let families appreciate the decorations without the usual scares.
The regular haunted house does not admit children under eight, so be sure to review the age guidance before attending.
Admission: $20 adults, $10 children ages 8–12 for the main haunted house.
Why we love it: It's an example of the community coming together to create something memorable while supporting local causes.
Tickets and dates: https://www.thebigshopofhorrors.com/tickets-dates
3. Cowichan Aquatic Centre Fright Night – North Cowichan
Location: Cowichan Aquatic Centre, Duncan
Dates: October 23–24, 2026
Sessions: 4–6 p.m. and 7–9 p.m. each day
Looking for a fun Halloween activity in Duncan that isn't your typical trick-or-treating adventure?
The Cowichan Aquatic Centre is hosting Fright Night, featuring spooky activities, games, zombie lifeguards and a haunted house.
It's an opportunity to experience a familiar community recreation centre in a completely different way.
With multiple sessions available, families can choose a time that best suits their plans.
Why we love it: It's a creative Halloween celebration at one of the Valley's well-used community facilities.
Event details: https://www.northcowichan.ca/events/cowichan-aquatic-centre-fright-night
4. Kids Harvest Scavenger Hunt at Merridale – Cobble Hill
Location: 1230 Merridale Road, Cobble Hill
Dates: September 28–October 31, 2026
Admission: Free
For families in Cobble Hill, Mill Bay and Shawnigan Lake looking for something fun this fall, Merridale's Kids Harvest Scavenger Hunt is worth exploring.
Children can follow a map through the orchard, discover harvest-themed clues, learn about apples and earn a little prize for completing the adventure.
It's a chance to enjoy the beautiful fall scenery of Cobble Hill while giving younger children an activity that encourages curiosity and exploration.
Why we love it: It combines fresh air, local agriculture and a little family adventure, without the need for an expensive outing.
More information: https://www.tourismcowichan.com/events/
5. Ladysmith Zombie Walk – Ladysmith
Location: Starting at St. Johns Masonic Lodge, 26 Gatacre Street, Ladysmith
Date: Saturday, October 17, 2026
Registration: Noon | Walk: 1 p.m. | Costume judging: 2:30 p.m.
For something a little different this Halloween, head north to Ladysmith for the annual Zombie Walk.
Participants are encouraged to arrive in costume, join the walk and enjoy a community celebration filled with Halloween spirit.
There's also a meaningful community connection: participants are encouraged to bring donations for the Ladysmith Food Bank.
Whether you're joining the walk or cheering everyone on, it's an entertaining way to spend an October afternoon.
Why we love it: Creative costumes, small-town community spirit and support for a worthwhile local cause.
Event details: https://ladysmithcofc.com/events/ladysmith-zombie-walk/
6. McNab's Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch – Yellow Point
Location: 4613 Yellow Point Road, Yellow Point
Dates: September 15–October 31, 2026
Hours: 10 a.m.–5 p.m. daily
For a classic fall outing, McNab's Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch is well worth the drive.
Located north of the Cowichan Valley in Yellow Point, this family farm offers a seven-acre corn maze, pumpkin picking, hayrides and a farm produce stand.
Make an afternoon of it by finding your way through the maze, choosing the perfect pumpkin and enjoying the beautiful countryside.
The pumpkin patch itself has no admission charge, although pumpkins, hayrides and corn maze activities are priced separately.
Why we love it: It's a simple, traditional fall outing that never really gets old.
More information: https://mcnabscornmaze.com/
7. Second Nature Autumn Market – Cobble Hill
Location: Cobble Hill Hall, 3550 Watson Avenue
Date: Saturday, October 24, 2026
Hours: 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Not every great October outing needs to be scary!
Second Nature Autumn Market brings more than 50 vendors to Cobble Hill Hall for a celebration of local creativity, handmade goods and community.
With a live vinyl DJ, food and an assortment of unique products, it's an opportunity to support small businesses and enjoy the season.
It's also a great excuse to visit the charming village of Cobble Hill and explore the surrounding countryside.
Admission: Free
Why we love it: The Cowichan Valley has an incredible community of makers and small businesses, and local markets are a wonderful way to discover them.
Event listings: https://www.tourismcowichan.com/events/
8. Halloween in Your Own Cowichan Valley Neighbourhood
Location: Duncan, Maple Bay, Cowichan Bay, Cobble Hill, Mill Bay, Shawnigan Lake, Chemainus and surrounding communities
Date: Saturday, October 31, 2026
Sometimes the best Halloween memories are made right in your own neighbourhood.
One of the things we appreciate most about living in the Cowichan Valley is the sense of community.
From decorated front yards and creative pumpkin displays to families heading out trick-or-treating together, Halloween is a wonderful reminder of what makes our neighbourhoods special.
Take an early evening walk to enjoy the decorations, visit neighbours or spend the evening handing out candy.
And with Halloween falling on a Saturday this year, families have a little extra flexibility to enjoy the celebrations.
More Things to Do in the Cowichan Valley This Fall
Halloween is just one reason to enjoy October in this beautiful part of Vancouver Island.
Fall is also a great time to explore the walking trails around Shawnigan Lake, visit the waterfront in Cowichan Bay, enjoy the scenery in Maple Bay or wander through the shops and cafés of downtown Duncan.
For those who love getting outdoors, the Cowichan Valley offers a wonderful combination of forests, farms, lakes, oceanfront communities and small-town charm.
It's easy to see why so many people choose to call this area home.
Frequently Asked Questions About Halloween in the Cowichan Valley
What are the best Halloween events in Duncan BC for 2026?
Popular Halloween events in Duncan include the Halloween Train at the BC Forest Discovery Centre, The Big Shop of Horrors at Cowichan Exhibition Park and Fright Night at the Cowichan Aquatic Centre.
Are there family-friendly Halloween activities in the Cowichan Valley?
Yes! Families can enjoy the Halloween Train, the Kids Harvest Scavenger Hunt at Merridale, pumpkin picking, corn mazes and community Halloween celebrations.
Where can I find a haunted house in the Cowichan Valley?
The Big Shop of Horrors at Cowichan Exhibition Park is a dedicated haunted attraction. The Cowichan Aquatic Centre's Fright Night also features a haunted house experience.
Where are the best pumpkin patches near Duncan BC?
McNab's Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch in Yellow Point is a seasonal option for pumpkin picking, hayrides and corn maze activities. Local farm stands throughout the Cowichan Valley are also worth checking for pumpkins and other fall produce.
Are there free Halloween or fall activities around Cobble Hill?
Merridale's Kids Harvest Scavenger Hunt is free, and Second Nature Autumn Market at Cobble Hill Hall has free admission. Visiting local neighbourhoods to admire Halloween decorations is another option.
When is Halloween 2026 in British Columbia?
Halloween falls on Saturday, October 31, 2026.
Why We Love Calling the Cowichan Valley Home
At the Stieg & Manning Real Estate Team, we believe finding the right home is about more than bedrooms, bathrooms and square footage.
It's about finding a community where you feel connected. A place where local traditions matter, neighbours look out for one another, and there is always something to enjoy just a short drive from home.
Whether it's a family outing to the Halloween Train in Duncan, visiting a local pumpkin patch, exploring Cobble Hill or enjoying Halloween in your own neighbourhood, these are the experiences that make living in the Cowichan Valley so special.
We're fortunate to live and work in an area with so much natural beauty, community spirit and opportunity to enjoy the outdoors.
If you're considering buying or selling a home in Duncan, Cowichan Bay, Maple Bay, Cobble Hill, Shawnigan Lake, Mill Bay or anywhere throughout the Cowichan Valley, we're always happy to share our local knowledge and help you make your next move with confidence.
From our team to your family, have a fun and safe Halloween!
Heidi Stieg & Joanna Manning
Stieg & Manning Real Estate Team
Pemberton Holmes Real Estate
*Event dates, admission prices and activities are subject to change. Please confirm details with organizers before attending.*