Why do we dress up and get all spooky each year around the 31^st October? Apparently it is because Halloween’s origins can be traced back to the ancient Celtic festival known as Samhain, which was held on November 1 in contemporary calendars. It was believed that on that day, the souls of the dead returned to their homes, so people dressed in costumes and lit bonfires to ward off spirits.

Thankfully we are all a bit tamer with our celebrations today but it is always a great opportunity to have some fun as we enter the darker evenings. So, here’s our top things to do this Halloween in and around Newmarket.

The National Horseracing Museum sees the return of two of its popular events. Join them for Family Friendly Fright Nights on 28th  and 29th  October where they are inviting families with young children to dress up and take part in a witch hunt! Take a tour by torchlight and meet the ghosts of Charles II and his housekeeper. There are goody bag to win for those who successfully find all five of the hidden witches in Palace House. Not to mention a free brownie from the Bakery for everyone in fancy dress

Then their Fright Night is back on 30th October where you can tour the grounds at dark, but only if you dare! Beware the headless horseman and his torture chamber not to mention the witch’s gingerbread house. Warm your bones with a hot chocolate or mulled cider at the Tack Room and pick up a free brownie for those children who dress up and a free beer or wine for the adults.

For those looking for daytime fun, then Wildtracks has a special offer running from 20th to 31st October, with £10 off per person on their  package of 30 minutes quad biking, 15  minutes karting and 15 minutes archery. Making it just £62 per person for this thrill seeking experience.

Burwell Museum has some some spooky art and craft activities for children on Sunday 31st October.  So, do pop along and support this wonderful museum depicting fenland life. Daily admission tickets can be purchased here. 

The final race meeting of the year at the Rowley Mile Racecourse on  30th October has a suitably spooky theme. Wear your finest Halloween outfit and there will be a competition for the younger  racegoers . Then join in the themed  festivities with a selection of arts and craft activities. Plus, a face painter will be on hand to create facial masterpieces!

Thinking of a last minute half-term get away? Check out Mad Hatters Camping and Glamping site where they have dressed some of their cabins and pods especially for the season. With woodburners and lots of extras, camping can still be an exciting and luxurious staycation option, even in the cooler months!

And lastly, for real night life spooky entertainment check out the Throwback Halloween Special Party Night at The Ark. With music from 90s and 00s let your hair down at Newmarket’s biggest and loudest musical venue on 30th October but beware of what happens at midnight on Halloween!!