Our annual Spooktacular is back! Join us on Friday, October 23, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Puzzle Pieces in Quincy for a free Halloween celebration with a not-so-scary haunted house, spooky crafts, supported trick-or-treating, and more.
Halloween is meant to be fun, but crowds, costumes, noise, and the pressure to say “trick or treat!” can make it hard for a lot of kids and families. We built the Spooktacular so that every child can enjoy the holiday as themselves. It’s a calm, judgment-free space where your family can come in costume or come as you are.
- When: Friday, October 23, 2026, 5:30–7:30 p.m.
- Where: Puzzle Pieces, 1266 Furnace Brook Parkway, Suite 100B, Quincy, MA 02169
- Cost: Free
- Who: All families are welcome, whether or not you’re a Puzzle Pieces client
- Registration: Required for every family. Register here
- Bring: A trick-or-treat bucket or bag
What does trick-or-treating look like at the Spooktacular?
At Puzzle Pieces, we meet each child and family where they are. That’s true in our everyday therapy sessions, and it’s true at the Spooktacular too. Our goal isn’t to “fix” how a child takes part. We want to make it easy for them to join in the way that works for them.
As kids go from room to room trick-or-treating, they don’t have to say “trick or treat!” to get their goodies. We welcome every way of communicating, including:
- Saying it out loud
- Gestures, waves, or pointing
- Help from a grown-up
- Using an AAC (augmentative and alternative communication) device
- Taking as much time as they need
No child will be pushed into a sensory, communication, or activity experience that doesn’t feel like a “just-right” challenge for them.
What can we expect from the not-so-scary haunted house?
Our gross motor gym becomes the “haunted house” for the evening. Expect dimmed lighting, kid-friendly Halloween decorations, music, and a scavenger hunt challenge. There are no jump scares, no frightening images, and no flashing lights. It’s spooky enough to be exciting and gentle enough to feel safe.
What other activities will there be?
Plenty! Every room has its own Halloween theme, with activities such as:
- Make-your-own haunted house
- Jewelry making with Halloween beads
- Halloween-themed sensory bins and activities
- Pin the spider on the web
- Spider web toss
- …and more surprises!
What if my child gets overwhelmed, needs a break, or wants to go slowly?
That’s completely okay. Every activity runs from 5:30 to 7:30, so your family can arrive when it suits you, go at your own pace, take breaks, and leave whenever you’re ready. You don’t have to stay for the full two hours.
We’ll also have:
- A calming space for anyone who needs a quiet moment to reset
- Snacks and water for a refuel break
Are costumes required?
Not at all. Costumes are welcome, but some kids love dressing up and others are most comfortable in their everyday clothes. Pajamas, half a costume, or a favorite t-shirt are all great. Come however feels best for your child.
Who should attend the Spooktacular?
Everyone! The Spooktacular is a low-pressure, supportive, and safe place for all families. It’s a great fit for children who find typical Halloween events overwhelming and for kids who are still working on regulating in busy holiday settings. Siblings, parents, grandparents, and caregivers are all welcome.
You don’t need to be a Puzzle Pieces client to come. Registration is required for clients and non-clients alike so we can plan for the right number of treats, activities, and staff.
We can’t wait to celebrate with you!
Join us Friday, October 23, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Spots are free but limited, so register your family today. We hope you leave feeling supported, a little lighter, and with a bucket full of treats.