With Halloween approaching, Sarasota families still have time to put a little seasonal fun on the calendar without planning a long drive or an elaborate weekend.

Two upcoming options from Marie Selby Botanical Gardens offer distinctly different outings: a daytime celebration at the Downtown Sarasota campus and an evening light show at Historic Spanish Point in Osprey.

For parents, grandparents and visiting relatives, the useful starting point is simple: decide whether your group would enjoy costumes and activities in daylight or a walk through illuminated grounds after dark.

Daytime fun on October 25

Spooktacular takes place Sunday, October 25, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Selby Gardens’ Downtown Sarasota campus, 1534 Mound Street.

The announced activities include trick-or-treating, arts and crafts, educational activities and storytelling options for older children.

Children are encouraged to wear costumes and bring their own treat bags, which makes the preparation fairly straightforward for families who already have their Halloween outfits ready.

The event is included with general admission and is free for Selby Gardens members; food and beverages are available for purchase.

Check the Spooktacular event page before leaving home for the latest admission information and any updates.

A morning outing also leaves the afternoon open, an appealing arrangement for families who want a seasonal activity without committing their entire Sunday.

An evening at Spooky Point

Lights at Spooky Point continues through Saturday, October 31, at the Historic Spanish Point campus, 401 North Tamiami Trail in Osprey.

The announced walk-through experience uses Halloween displays and botanical themes to give the grounds a seasonal nighttime personality.

Selby describes the show as suitable for all ages, while noting that a few minor jump scares may appeal to older children.

That detail is worth considering if someone in your party prefers pumpkins and lights to unexpected surprises.

Listed admission is $34 for nonmember adults, $24 for member adults and $19 for children ages 5–17; children 4 and younger are free.

Use the Lights at Spooky Point ticket page to confirm your selected date, entry time and current ticket availability.

Pick the outing that fits your family

These are two different campuses, so make sure the address in your navigation matches the event you booked.

Spooktacular is the downtown daytime option, while Lights at Spooky Point is the separately ticketed evening attraction in Osprey.

For a group with younger children, the daytime celebration may be the easier first choice; families with older children might prefer an after-dark outing.

That is a planning suggestion rather than a promise about how any particular child will respond, so let your own family’s comfort level guide the decision.

Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing and a little extra time to arrive can help keep either outing relaxed.

If accessibility, walking distances or a particular accommodation will determine whether you attend, contact the venue before purchasing tickets.

Make room for an easy local tradition

A successful Halloween outing does not need to include every festival on the calendar.

Choosing one event, checking its details and leaving enough time to enjoy it can turn a busy October weekend into something more manageable.

For Sarasota-area families looking for a cheerful way to celebrate, these two options offer a practical starting point while there is still time to plan.