Sweaters, falling leaves, pumpkin–flavored everything—you know Halloween is just around the corner when you can smell the autumn in the air. For film lovers, the change in season means an explosion of Halloween–themed film events in every corner of the city. Here are some of Street’s picks:
Halloween Movie Marathon at the Piazza
There is nothing like the chilly October air (and hopefully a cup of cocoa) to set the mood for an outdoor movie screening. Catch spooky fair from classics like Ghostbusters (October 28) and Night of the Living Dead (October 29) to more recent favorites like last year’s It (October 30) at the Piazza at Schmidt's Commons in Northern Liberties. Other showings include Hereditary (October 25), Hocus Pocus (October 27) and Halloween (October 31). Be sure to bring a blanket or chair and be ready for some free popcorn in this expansive outdoor venue.
Date: October 11 – 31; screenings begin at 7 p.m.
Location: 1001 N 2nd St #21, Philadelphia, PA 19123
Cost: Free
Lightbox Film Center Exhumed Films 24-Hour Horror–Thon
If you’re up for it, University City’s own Lightbox Film Center hosts a 24–hour horror movie marathon that runs noon to noon the weekend before Halloween. The lineup isn’t revealed before attendance, but is poised to feature a diverse mix of modern horror classics and rare finds. At a price point of $60 for non–members, this spooky extravaganza is catered to the most dedicated Halloween and/or horror enthusiasts but promises to be an unforgettable experience for all those brave enough to attend.
Date: October 26 – 27; screenings begin at noon on Saturday
Location: 3701 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19104
Cost: $60 for non–members, $50 for members of Lightbox Film Center
The Thing at Ritz Five
For Penn’s Film Lovers, the SEPTA ride out to Old City’s Ritz Five is not an infrequent cross–town journey. In celebration of the Halloween Season, the charming theater is showing the 1982 sci–fi classic The Thing. For those who want a cozy spot to enjoy a spooky specimen of 80’s horror, the Ritz is the place.
Date: October 30 at 7 p.m.
Location: 214 Walnut Street, between 2nd & 3rd Streets, Philadelphia, PA, 19106
Cost: $10.50
Häxan: Witchcraft through the Ages at the Mütter Museum
A truly bizarre but wonderfully original way you could spend your Halloween evening is with a screening of the 1922 Swedish Horror–Documentary Häxan: Witchcraft through the Ages. This special Halloween night screening is preceded by an introductory lecture and complementary pretzels. The best part: costumes are highly encouraged.
Date: October 31 at 6:30 p.m.
Location: 19 South 22nd Street Philadelphia, PA 19103
Cost: $20 General Admission; $15 for Members
Night of the Living Dead screening at The Prince Theater
This remarkable 1968 horror classic is worth a watch for anyone interested in the development of the now ubiquitous zombie film genre. This special Halloween night showing of Night of the Living Dead will feature an updated score performed live at the theater.
Date: October 31 at 7:30 p.m.
Location: 1412 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19102
Cost: $15
