Are you looking for the ultimate way to dive into the spirit of Halloween this year? If you want more than just a typical haunted house, you need to visit a town that literally changes its name to celebrate the season.
By official proclamation, the town of Bucoda, Washington, transforms into BOO-CODA every October. This month-long “Spook-Tacular” festival turns the tiny town into a Pacific Northwest Halloween headquarters, featuring one of the most intense haunted houses in the state alongside a full calendar of macabre events.
The centerpiece of the festival is the BOO-CODA Spook-Tacular Haunted House. Located in the historic (and naturally eerie) haunted gym, it is open every Friday and Saturday night in October from 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM, with special “Fright Week” hours during the final days of the month.
Expect a high-intensity experience filled with terrifying creatures and expertly crafted scares. Due to the intensity, the haunt is rated PG-13. Admission is $15 per person, but if you want to skip the shivering lines, a $25 Fast Pass is your best bet.
Beyond the screams of the haunted house, BOO-CODA offers a variety of unique events that you won’t find anywhere else:
Hearse Procession and Viewing (Saturday, October 3rd, 2026):
Kick off the month with a chilling parade of retired and in-service hearses. Owners from across the PNW bring their highly decorated “death sleds” to Main Street for a procession at 1:00 PM, followed by a viewing where you can see the custom gothic displays up close.
Family Fun Day Harvest Festival (Saturday, October 10th, 2026):
A perfect day for the younger ghouls. From 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM, the Town Square hosts pumpkin decorating, face painting, and spooky games. It’s a free, family-friendly way to enjoy the “Town of BOO.”
The Famous Casket Races (Saturday, October 17th, 2026):
One of the most hilarious and bizarre events of the year. Teams of four “pallbearers” and one “corpse” race custom-built caskets down a 175-foot course on Main Street. Races start at 1:00 PM, with trophies for the fastest times and the most original casket designs.
Forest Grove Cemetery Historic Tour (Saturday, October 24th, 2026):
As dusk falls, head to the historic Forest Grove Cemetery (dating back to 1860). From 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, take a guided tour to learn the real-life stories of those buried there. Tickets are $15 per person, with proceeds supporting the cemetery’s preservation.
Thrill the World Dance (Saturday, October 31st, 2026):
Join the global phenomenon at 3:00 PM sharp in the Town Square as zombies of all ages perform the iconic “Thriller” dance simultaneously with thousands of others worldwide. Stay for the Halloween night trunk-or-treat festivities afterward!
If you’re ready to experience a town that truly lives for Halloween, you can find the full 2026 schedule here. Don’t forget to follow them on social media for the latest weather updates and photo galleries. Have a BOO-tiful time! 🎃
