Please note that Fernbank will close at 3 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 24 and will reopen on Thursday, Dec. 26.
October 12, 2023
Fernbank Museum is SPOOKtacular - October Things to Do
Returning for its sixth year, guests can take a walk on the supernatural side when Fernbank Museum is haunted by friendly figures in the outdoor exhibit, “Woodland Spirits.” Dozens of ghostly sculptures will take over the nature trails of WildWoods and Fernbank Forest from Sept. 30 – Nov. 5, 2023.
Inspired by the imagery of dark forests in movies and literature, “Woodland Spirits” transforms Fernbank’s "forest in the city” into a ghostly hideaway that’s perfect for all ages. Guests will discover these human and animal spirits — created by artist Laura Lewis — lurking in the shadows, floating in the trees and waiting to greet you in plain sight.
If you’re looking for more spooky season activities to complement your Halloween agenda, check out Fernbank's Halloween Happenings for a full list of special events and activities happening this month, including:
Ghostly Gatherings | Oct. 14 | All Ages
Enjoy after-hours access to Woodland Spirits, the special exhibit Vikings: Warriors of the Sea, Halloween-themed activities, opportunities to meet live nocturnal animals with AWARE Wildlife Center and more. Drinks, including adult beverages, and a variety of snacks will be available for purchase.
Fright Night | Oct. 27 | Adults 21+ Only
Have a screaming-good time at this annual adults-only Halloween event featuring dancing, a costume contest, adult beverages for purchase and more.
Monster Mash | Oct. 28 | All Ages
No tricks, just treats at Monster Mash! We’ve been working in the lab to create themed tables full of goodies, crafts and activities during this graveyard smash. Costumes are highly encouraged. Please bring your own bag for goody collection.
Don’t worry, that’s not all that’s happening at Fernbank in October!
Prepare your battle axe for a historical invasion when our fall exhibit, Vikings: Warriors of the Sea, opens on Oct. 7.
Explore Viking culture, society and technology through this exhibit’s 140 artifacts, where you’ll learn about Viking art, traditions, beliefs, political power and overall lifestyle. Don’t miss out on snapping a pic or two in front of a full-size replica of a Viking ship and the Jelling Stone!
Here are a few additional things to do to enhance your Viking experience, whether it be before or after you visit Fernbank.
- Helen Oktoberfest | Helen, GA
- Drink like a Viking at Oktoberfest! Eat, dance and drink (responsibly) at this annual bier festival in northwest Georgia. Ticket prices vary.
- Bad Axe Throwing Atlanta | 7 miles from Fernbank
- Channel your inner Viking warrior and go axe throwing at Bad Axe Throwing Atlanta! While you must have a minimum of six people in your group, you can walk in or schedule a time to try your hand at throwing an axe. Ticket prices vary.
- Little 5 Points Halloween Fest & Parade | 2 miles from Fernbank
- Dress like a Viking when you attend the world famous Little 5 Points Halloween Parade and accompanying festival! Enjoy the local shops, a haunted house, ghost tours, live music and more when the festivities take place on Oct. 21 and 22.
Make sure to check out Fernbank’s social media for more news and events: @FernbankMuseum
Fernbank is a nonprofit natural history museum, giant screen theater and old-growth forest, and is not affiliated with Fernbank Science Center, which operates as a division of DeKalb County Schools.
