The 38th Annual Halloween Haunts Returns to Wehr Nature Center
Photo from Milwaukee County Parks.
MILWAUKEE, WI – Experience Halloween in nature at the 38th Annual Halloween Haunts at Wehr Nature Center, October 16–18 from 6:00 to 8:30 PM. This beloved family-friendly tradition combines the magic of Halloween with the beauty of Wehr’s nighttime woodland trails.
Each evening, Wehr’s forest transforms into an Enchanted Forest, where guests will encounter Mother Nature, a talking owl, rapping arthropods, and other whimsical woodland characters. More than 300 glowing Jack-o’-lanterns light the trails, creating a magical, gently spooky experience that’s perfect for kids and kids at heart.
“Halloween Haunts is designed to delight, not fright,” said Bev Bryant, event organizer. “It’s a unique way for families to enjoy the Halloween season immersed in nature, learning about local wildlife in an entertaining way, without the scares.”
New this year, guests can enjoy new characters that complement beloved legacy characters, a pre-hike Story Stroll, and light concessions available for purchase. The 2026 theme, “Turn Off the Lights, Save the Night,” invites visitors to explore the nighttime world and discover the importance of darkness for wildlife.
Halloween Haunts offers a memorable way to celebrate the season while connecting with nature and supporting Wehr’s mission. All ticket proceeds support hands-on environmental education and equitable access to nature for Milwaukee-area residents.
Event Details
Dates: October 16–18, 2025
Time: 6:00–8:30 PM
Location: Wehr Nature Center, Franklin, WI
Tickets:
- $16 per person
- $12 for Friends of Wehr (FOW) members
- $5 parking fee (non-members), paid during online registration
- Children in carriers/backpacks are free; strollers/wagons are not permitted
- Maximum of 16 tickets per household
Ticket Information: Register today! All Tickets Must Be Purchased in Advance. Sales end at 3:00 PM on the day of each event.
Tickets are expected to sell quickly, so guests are encouraged not to wait. “Don’t be a zombie—get your tickets early!”
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit https://www.wehrnaturecenter.com/event/halloween-haunts/.
Interested in volunteering? Wehr welcomes you or your team’s help to bring the Enchanted Forest to life. From carving Jack-o-Lantern works of art to performing as a kooky character, there is a job for everyone. Corporate groups, service learners and clubs are welcome to participate! Please contact Sophia.Detweiler@milwaukeecountywi.gov to register. Individuals can sign up as a volunteer at https://www.friendsofwehr.org/volunteer.
About Wehr Nature Center
Wehr Nature Center, located in Whitnall Park, is a cherished Milwaukee County Parks destination that inspires exploration and fosters environmental education for all ages. Learn more at https://www.wehrnaturecenter.com.
About Milwaukee County Parks Milwaukee County Parks is dedicated to enriching the lives of the community by providing safe, enjoyable, and affordable recreational opportunities while preserving the natural and cultural resources of the parks. Spanning over 15,000 acres, the Milwaukee County Park System includes more than 150 parks and parkways, over 100 miles of trails, numerous community centers, golf courses, botanical gardens, beaches, and hundreds of playgrounds, athletic fields, and picnic areas. Committed to sustainability, health, and equity, Milwaukee County Parks continues to strive towards a vision where everyone, regardless of background, can enjoy the benefits of green spaces and recreational facilities.
Additional Details Contact: Wehr Nature Center Phone: 414-425-8550 Email: Carly.Hintz@milwaukeecountywi.gov Website: https://www.wehrnaturecenter.com/event/halloween-haunts/
NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.
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