10/04/2026
🎃 How did Victorians Celebrate Halloween?
Halloween in the Victorian era was a little different from the Halloween we know today. Rather than trick-or-treating, Victorian-era Halloween celebrations often centered around parties, costumes, parlor games, fortune-telling, matchmaking games, mischief, and plenty of food. Guests might test their fortunes with apples, nuts, mirrors, or other playful divinations, while Halloween parties could include games, dancing, disguises, and elaborate decorations.
And of course, there were treats! Period descriptions of Halloween gatherings mention things like apples, nuts, gingerbread, candies, raisins, and other seasonal foods being served to guests.
So, while our Halloween celebration may have a rather more murderous twist, the spirit of the evening is surprisingly familiar: Merriment. Games. Good company. A little mystery. And something delicious to enjoy. That’s exactly what's planned for The Londonderry Inn & Estate this Halloween.
Come enjoy Victorian-inspired parlor games, seasonal bites and themed mocktails throughout the evening, mingle with fellow guests, meet our visiting authors, browse the Book Bar pop-up, and then put your powers of deduction to work as you investigate a murder hidden within the halls of Londonderry.
Some traditions change. Some traditions never go out of style. And we think the Victorians would have approved of a Halloween evening filled with merriment, mystery, and a little mischief.
Saturday, October 31 | 6:30–9:30 PM
A Victorian Halloween Party with a Murderous Twist at The Londonderry Inn.
Tickets are selling quickly!
Get yours here: https://www.eventbrite.com/.../victorian-halloween-party...
Additional info: https://visitlebanonvalley.com/