What Family Entertainment, Food and Merchandise Are Available at Alton Towers Scarefest?

Every October, Alton Towers Resort transforms into a thrilling mix of spooky fun, glowing pumpkins, eerie lights, and family-friendly Halloween magic. While the headline-grabbing Scare Mazes and Dark Forest attractions attract thrill-seekers, Scarefest isn’t just for adrenaline junkies — it’s an incredible time for families too.

From live entertainment and themed food to exclusive Halloween merchandise and photo opportunities, there’s something for every age group. Here’s a full guide to the family entertainment, food, and shopping highlights of Scarefest, so you can plan a day (or weekend) that’s full of treats, not tricks.

 

Family-Friendly Entertainment

CBeebies Land Monster Ball

Perfect for little monsters aged 1–6, the CBeebies Land Monster Ball is a lively dance party where kids can boogie with their favourite CBeebies characters — all dressed up for Halloween! Expect colourful lighting, family-friendly music, and a spooky (but never scary) atmosphere that’s ideal for younger visitors.

💡 Tip: Arrive early to grab a good spot — the Monster Ball is one of the most popular Scarefest shows for young families.

Freaky Fun Zone

The Freaky Fun Zone is a must-visit for families who want a mix of comedy, dancing, and music. Meet a cast of friendly characters like Patch’s Pumpkin Party, Gretyl the Witch, and Phil & Franklin the Frankly Frightful Twins. Each mini-show is interactive and full of laughter — it’s like a Halloween pantomime with a spooky twist!

Located near the Towers Lawn, this area becomes a hub of family fun throughout the day and early evening.

Spooktacular Rides in the Dark

As the sun sets, the park lights up with rides in the dark — and it’s not just for the grown-ups! Families can enjoy gentle evening rides on attractions like:

• Runaway Mine Train
• Gangsta Granny: The Ride
• Congo River Rapids
• Spinball Whizzer

Meanwhile, thrill-seekers in the family can brave The Smiler, Wicker Man, and Nemesis Reborn as they roar through the night sky.

Alton Towers Gardens at Night

Take a walk through the Alton Towers Gardens after dark to see them transformed by eerie mist, glowing pumpkins, and magical lighting. It’s peaceful, spooky, and a great way for families to enjoy a break from the louder parts of the park.

💡 Fun fact: The gardens are hundreds of years old, and some areas — like the White Bridge — are rumoured to be haunted!

 

Spooky Seasonal Food & Drink

Scarefest is known for its creative seasonal snacks and warming autumn treats. Around the park, you’ll find themed food stalls and restaurants offering limited-edition menus like:

Halloween-Themed Treats

• Pumpkin-Spiced Lattes & Hot Chocolates – topped with whipped cream and spooky sprinkles.
• Toffee Apples – a Halloween classic perfect for kids.
• Monster Burgers & Loaded Fries – featuring black buns, spicy sauces, and novelty toppings.
• Spooky Doughnuts & Brownies – available from coffee stands and bakery kiosks.

Family Favourites

For sit-down meals, head to:

• Explorers Pizza & Pasta Buffet (unlimited pizza, pasta, and soft drinks — great value for families).
• The Burger Kitchen for hearty meals and Halloween specials.
• Rollercoaster Restaurant, where your meal travels to your table on its own mini track — a hit with kids and adults alike.

Warm-Up Spots

When the temperature drops, grab a hot chocolate or mulled cider from pop-up stands dotted around the park. Perfect for a mid-evening treat during the rides-in-the-dark hours.

Scarefest Merchandise & Souvenirs

No visit to Scarefest would be complete without taking home a souvenir! Themed merchandise is available throughout the event, and many items are exclusive to the Halloween season.

Must-Buy Items Include:

• Limited-Edition Scarefest Hoodies & T-Shirts – featuring this years scare maze logos and designs.
• Glow-in-the-Dark Accessories – necklaces, headbands, and toys to light up the night.
• Themed Plush Toys – from pumpkins and ghosts to cuddly versions of park mascots.
• Scarefest Mugs & Hot Chocolate Sets – ideal for cosy autumn nights at home.
• Commemorative Pins and Keyrings – perfect for collectors or returning visitors.

💡 Pro Tip: The Towers Trading Co. (near the main entrance) is the best spot for the full range of Scarefest merchandise, and stock is limited — especially for dated souvenirs.

Added Extras for Families

• Photo Passes: Capture spooky memories with Halloween-themed photo frames available at ride photo kiosks.
• Face Painting & Temporary Tattoos: Kids can get their own creepy look at pop-up stalls.
• Pumpkin Photo Points: Around the park, you’ll find glowing pumpkin sculptures and spooky backdrops — perfect for family photos.

Extend the Fun with a Halloween Short Break

For families who want to make a full weekend of it, Alton Towers Resort hotels offer special Scarefest short breaks. Guests can enjoy:

• Priority access to the park.
• Halloween-themed evening entertainment.
• Spooky hotel décor and themed dining.
• Extra perks for Merlin Annual Passholders.

Staying overnight keeps the magic going — and it’s ideal for families who want to enjoy both the day and nighttime atmosphere without rushing home.

Why Scarefest Is Perfect for Families

• Inclusive atmosphere: From toddlers to teens, there’s entertainment for every age.
• Choice of thrills: Big scares for the brave, gentle fun for little ones.
• Plenty of breaks: Indoor restaurants, gardens, and family zones offer downtime between rides.
• All-day adventure: Arrive for the sunshine, stay for the darkness and lights.

Final Thoughts: Frights, Fun, and Family Memories 🎃

So, what family entertainment, food and merchandise are available at Alton Towers Scarefest? The answer is — everything you could wish for. With live shows, character meet-and-greets, themed food, exclusive souvenirs, and a one-of-a-kind Halloween atmosphere, Scarefest is more than just an event — it’s a full autumn experience for families.

Whether you’re dancing at the CBeebies Monster Ball, sipping hot chocolate in the Gardens, or watching the fireworks of Wicker Man in the dark, Scarefest promises unforgettable memories for everyone.

Book your Alton Towers Scarefest tickets today and get ready for family fun, frights, and festive treats under the October moon.