The U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama, has announced the return of its annual family-friendly Halloween event, the Spooky Space Spectacular. The 12th iteration of this popular community gathering is scheduled for Friday, October 25, and will feature a variety of themed activities, including a special after-hours haunted zipline experience.
Key Takeaways
- Event: 12th annual Spooky Space Spectacular.
- Location: U.S. Space & Rocket Center, Huntsville, Alabama.
- Date and Time: October 25, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
- Activities: Trick-or-treating, hands-on science exhibits, music, and a costume-friendly atmosphere.
- Add-On Experience: A Haunted Zipline event will run from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. for an additional fee.
A Community Tradition Returns
For over a decade, the U.S. Space & Rocket Center has blended science education with seasonal festivities through its Spooky Space Spectacular. The event has become a staple for families in the Huntsville area, offering a safe and engaging environment for Halloween celebrations. According to the center, the event is designed to appeal to all ages, encouraging attendees to wear costumes and participate in the various activities planned throughout the evening.
The main event is scheduled to run for three hours, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., providing ample time for families to explore the center's offerings. This year's celebration continues the tradition of combining spooky fun with the educational mission of the institution, allowing children and adults to interact with science in a unique holiday context.
About the U.S. Space & Rocket Center
The U.S. Space & Rocket Center is a Smithsonian Affiliate and serves as the official visitor center for NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center. It is home to one of the largest collections of rockets and space memorabilia in the world, including an authentic Saturn V moon rocket. The center also operates Space Camp, a renowned educational program for students from around the globe.
Details of the Main Event
The Spooky Space Spectacular offers a structured yet flexible evening of entertainment. The activities are spread across both indoor and outdoor areas of the facility, ensuring the event can proceed regardless of weather conditions. The center has confirmed that the event will take place, rain or shine.
Activities and Entertainment
Attendees can look forward to a range of experiences designed for family participation. Key features of the main event include:
- Trick-or-Treating: Designated stations throughout the center will allow children to collect candy in a secure setting.
- Hands-On Exhibits: Many of the center's interactive science and space exhibits will be open for guests to explore.
- Live Music: Entertainment will be provided by DJ Casper, who will be playing music to create a festive atmosphere for the duration of the event.
The combination of these activities aims to provide a comprehensive Halloween experience that is both entertaining and educational. Families are encouraged to immerse themselves in the themed environment while also taking advantage of the unique scientific backdrop.
Event Pricing and Admission
General admission for the Spooky Space Spectacular is set at $12 per person. Children under the age of two are admitted free of charge, making the event accessible for families with very young children. Tickets can be purchased directly at the center's ticket desk.
Haunted Zipline Offers After-Hours Thrills
For older attendees or those seeking a more adventurous experience, the center is offering a separate, ticketed event immediately following the main spectacular. From 8 p.m. to 11 p.m., the Aviation Challenge Ropes Course will transform into a Haunted Zipline attraction.
This add-on experience provides a unique opportunity to navigate the ropes course and zipline at night, with added spooky elements to enhance the thrill. The nighttime setting over the Aviation Challenge campus is expected to create a memorable and exciting atmosphere for participants.
Ticket Information for the Zipline
The Haunted Zipline experience is available as an add-on for $17 per person. This fee is in addition to the general admission ticket for the main Spooky Space Spectacular event. According to the announcement, those interested in the zipline can purchase tickets at the center's main ticket desk.
"The Haunted Zipline is designed for those seeking additional thrills after the main family-friendly activities conclude," a representative noted in the event details.
Planning Your Visit
The U.S. Space & Rocket Center is located in Huntsville, Alabama, and is a major tourist destination in the region. For the Spooky Space Spectacular, guests should plan for an evening of walking and interaction. The encouragement of costumes adds to the festive nature of the event, and attendees often participate with creative, space-themed, and traditional Halloween attire.
Given the event's popularity as an annual tradition, arriving early is recommended to make the most of the three-hour main event window. All activities are contained within the center's grounds, providing a controlled environment for families. For complete and updated information, the public is advised to visit the official U.S. Space & Rocket Center Spooky Space Spectacular web page.