The air's a little crisper, the pumpkins are back on porches, and spooky season has officially arrived in the River Valley! Whether you're decorating the house, hunting for costumes, or just looking for local Halloween fun, Fort Smith and the surrounding towns have plenty of ways to get into the spirit. Here are some of our favorite spots to check out this October.
Get Your Home Halloween-Ready
If you're the kind of person who turns their front yard into a full-blown haunted house, or just loves a cozy fall vibe inside, these local shops have you covered.
The Party Place
You can't go wrong with a stop at The Party Place. It's basically Halloween headquarters, costumes, decorations, fog machines, inflatables, and every spooky detail you didn't know you needed. Go early though; once October hits, the best stuff flies off the shelves fast.
Fort Smith Regional Art Museum
RAM always gets creative this time of year. Keep an eye on their events, they usually host family craft days, pumpkin painting, and art workshops with a fall twist. It's a fun way to celebrate the season while supporting local arts.
Kopper Kettle Candies
If Halloween had a scent, it would be caramel and chocolate and Kopper Kettle has both covered. Their caramel apples and homemade candies make perfect treats for parties, teachers, or anyone who deserves a little sweetness this season. Bonus points: they usually release special fall flavors in October.
Fort Smith Popcorn Company
For a snack that's equal parts festive and nostalgic, Fort Smith Popcorn Company is a must visit. They roll out fun fall flavors every year (caramel apple, pumpkin spice, and more) and package them perfectly for gifts or movie nights. Grab a few different kinds and make your own "spooky-movie survival kit."
Belle Starr Antiques & Vintage Market
If you're tired of cookie cutter Halloween décor, head to Belle Starr Antiques. Between the vintage skeletons, retro pumpkins, and quirky old-school decorations, you'll find something that gives your home just the right mix of spooky and charming. Every piece has a little bit of history and that's what makes it special.
Crouch Estate Sales
If you're heading up toward Northwest Arkansas October 24 – 26, make a quick stop in Lowell (Exit 78 off I-49) for a can't-miss in-person sale. The home is less than a mile from the exit, so it's an easy and worthwhile detour for anyone out treasure-hunting this fall. Whether you're furnishing your home, looking for a conversation piece, or just love a good weekend find, this sale is worth the short drive. Check out more details here.
Fall Flavors & Local Finds
Fort Smith Farmers Market
The market is full of fall color this time of year, local pumpkins, gourds, mums, baked goods, and homemade jams. It's the perfect place to grab everything you need for decorating (or baking) while supporting local growers. Pro tip: get there early for the best pumpkin picks!
Amazing Graze
If you're prepping for a Halloween gathering, a cozy fall get-together, or just love beautifully arranged food that steals the show, Amazing Graze is your go-to in Fort Smith. Handcrafted charcuterie & cheeseboards, custom-designed for any occasion. Fun seasonal specials: for example, their "Bloody Mary Boards" that pair gorgeously with a spooky-themed gathering.
Fort Smith Coffee Co.
Nothing says fall quite like a warm latte in hand. Fort Smith Coffee Co. rolls out its seasonal favorites each October, think pumpkin spice, maple brown sugar, and caramel apple cold brews. Their downtown shop has that perfect crisp-morning vibe for catching up with friends or taking a breather before the next Halloween errand.
Harvest Moon Bakery
A fall staple in the River Valley, Harvest Moon Bakery fills the air with the scent of pumpkin pies, spiced breads, and warm pastries. Their baked-from-scratch desserts make any gathering feel like home. Stop in early in the day — seasonal favorites like pumpkin rolls and pecan pies sell out fast.
Don't Miss These Local Halloween Events
Fall Fest at Bell Park (Greenwood)
A full day of family fun with games, food, trick-or-treating, and even tree giveaways. Always a community favorite!
Trunk-or-Treat at Baptist Health (Towson & G Streets)
If you're looking for something safe and family friendly, this one's a hit every year. Local groups decorate their trunks, hand out candy, and make it a night to remember for the little ones.
Neighborhood Light Displays
Every year, a few Fort Smith and Greenwood families go all-out with Halloween light shows that rival Christmas. A couple of favorites from last year were on Bridgewood Lane in Fort Smith and Plumbark Drive in Greenwood, keep an eye out as new ones pop up!
Candlelight: A Haunted Evening of Halloween Classics
Looking for something a little more elegant than jump-scares and fog machines? Head to the United States Marshals Museum on Friday, October 24 for a candlelit concert of spooky movie themes think Beetlejuice, Ghostbusters, and other Halloween favorites played live by a string quartet.
Location: United States Marshals Museum, Fort Smith
Time: 8:30 PM
Why go: It's a beautiful, atmospheric night out perfect for date night or anyone who loves classic Halloween vibes.
Trunk-or-Treat at Central Mall
One of Fort Smith's favorite family events returns on Saturday, October 25! Local businesses and community groups will be decking out their cars for a fun, safe evening of candy and costumes.
Location: Central Mall parking lot, Fort Smith
Why go: Perfect for little ones and families wanting a low-stress way to celebrate Halloween. Don't forget to bring a candy bucket!
Murder & Mayhem 2025
Step back in time at the Fort Smith Museum of History and Bonneville House for their popular Murder & Mayhem event. Running multiple nights October 17 & 18, 25, and 31 this spooky tour blends Fort Smith's real history with eerie storytelling, haunted houses, and hayrides.
Locations: Fort Smith Museum of History & Bonneville House
Why go: It's equal parts educational and creepy, a must-do for local history buffs and thrill-seekers alike.
Halloween Hoopla at Riverpark Events Center
Hosted by Fort Smith Parks & Recreation, Halloween Hoopla is a crowd favorite that brings the community together for games, candy, and costume fun. It's happening on Thursday, October 24 at the Riverpark Events Center.
Location: Riverpark Events Center, Fort Smith
Why go: All-ages event with tons of energy, perfect for families, couples, and anyone who wants an easy, festive night out.
Halloween Happenings at the Fort Smith Public Library
The Fort Smith Public Library always joins in on the fun with seasonal storytimes, craft events, and pumpkin-decorating workshops throughout October. Great for kids or anyone looking for free, community-based activities.
Location: All Fort Smith Public Library branches
Dates: Throughout October (1–28)
Why go: Budget-friendly, creative, and family-oriented. Ideal for weekday fun without breaking the bank.
Your 2025 Halloween Checklist
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Shop early for décor and candy! Fort Smith loves Halloween and shelves empty fast.
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Mix new decorations with vintage finds for that perfect "collected over time" look.
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Hit the farmers market for pumpkins and fall goodies.
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Support small businesses! They make this community what it is.
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Plan at least one local event or drive through light show with friends or family.
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And most importantly: have fun and take way too many pictures.
Wrapping It Up
Halloween in Fort Smith just hits different. From the small town charm to the local businesses that go all in for the season, there's no shortage of ways to celebrate. So grab your candy bucket, light up your jack-o'-lanterns, and make this Halloween one to remember.
Happy Haunting, River Valley!
