In the charming town of St. Helens, Oregon, a mystical transformation takes place every year as the vibrant spirit of Halloween awakens. Stepping into the town during the month of October feels like entering a portal to a world filled with magic, whimsy, and the enchanting aura of Halloweentown. Inspired by the iconic Disney movie “Halloweentown,” this real-life celebration captivates visitors from far and wide, igniting their imaginations and filling the air with an unparalleled sense of Halloween wonder. Parts of Twilight were also filmed here.
The origin
St. Helens, a picturesque riverside community located just a short drive from Portland, became the real-life Halloweentown after the movie of the same name was filmed there in 1998. The film, which tells the story of a young witch discovering her true potential in a hidden world of ghouls and goblins, captured the hearts of millions of viewers.
Embracing the magic created by the movie, St. Helens decided to channel that spirit and celebrate Halloween in a truly extraordinary way. The town embraced its newfound connection to Halloweentown, and thus, an annual tradition was born.
The Halloweentown celebration
Every October, the town of St. Helens undergoes a bewitching metamorphosis, becoming a vibrant hub of Halloween activities and experiences for visitors of all ages. The Halloweentown Celebration, a month-long extravaganza, invites people from across the nation to immerse themselves in the enchanting world of witches, monsters, and everything spooky.
One of the highlights of the celebration is the transformation of the town square into a magnificent recreation of Halloweentown. As visitors stroll through the streets, they are greeted by charmingly decorated storefronts, whimsical props, and the iconic pumpkin fountain. The attention to detail and the commitment of the town’s residents to create an authentic Halloweentown experience is truly remarkable.
Throughout the month, a variety of family-friendly activities take place. From pumpkin carving contests to haunted tours, costume parades, haunted house, and street performances, there is no shortage of Halloween-themed entertainment. Local businesses actively participate, offering specialty treats, spooky merchandise, face painting and unique experiences to enhance the festivities.
On weekends, the pirate crew arrive at the waterfront putting on a show firing their cannons and pistols.
Hop aboard and enjoy a little ride on the new Spirit of Halloweentown Train. Treat included. Take a little trip to some homes that are decorated in our city. Walk the street as you listen to audio of the homes you’ll get to see. Board the train back.
The big pumpkin
It is a monumental pumpkin that serves as a central symbol and focal point of the festivities and lights up the first Saturday of October. It’s marks the beginning of the celebration and stays lit for the month, it’s followed by a big Halloween parade.
The Big Pumpkin, located in the downtown Plaza Square, is an oversize, intricately carved pumpkin that captures the essence of Halloween. It stands as a physical representation of the enchanting spirit that permeates the entire celebration. The pumpkin’s size and elaborate design contribute to the visual spectacle, drawing visitors’ attention and evoking a sense of awe and wonder.
The Big Pumpkin serves as a gathering place and a popular backdrop for photographs. Visitors often pose beside it, capturing cherished memories of their time in Halloweentown. The pumpkin’s presence adds an extra touch of magic to the experience, as if it holds within it the essence of the Halloween season.
Additionally, the Big Pumpkin is often incorporated into various activities and events during the celebration. It may be used as a canvas for pumpkin carving contests or as a centerpiece for parades and processions. The pumpkin becomes a focal point around which other activities revolve, creating a sense of unity and shared excitement among participants.
The grand finale
The grand finale of the Halloweentown Celebration is the iconic Spirit of Halloweentown Festival, which takes place on the last weekend of October. During this climactic event, the town squares come alive with a bustling carnival atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy live music, dance performances, magic shows, and even a haunted house experience.
A major draw of the festival is the opportunity to meet and interact with the original cast members of “Halloweentown” who often make appearances, sharing behind-the-scenes stories and creating unforgettable memories for fans of the movie. These encounters with the beloved characters further enhance the feeling of stepping into the magical world of Halloweentown.
Preserving the magic
The Spirit of Halloweentown celebration not only serves as a delightful experience for visitors but also holds great significance for the town’s residents. It showcases the community’s creativity, unity, and commitment to preserving the magic of Halloween for future generations.
The celebration has not only boosted tourism in St. Helens but has also become an integral part of the town’s identity. It has brought local businesses together, encouraging economic growth and fostering a strong sense of community spirit.
Conclusion
The Spirit of Halloweentown in St. Helens, Oregon, is a testament to the enduring power of imagination and the joy of coming together to celebrate the spooky season. With its captivating charm, enchanting ambiance, and dedication to preserving the magic of Halloweentown, St. Helens has created a truly unforgettable experience for locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re a fan of the movie or simply a lover of all things Halloween, a journey to St. Helens during the month of October is sure to leave you spellbound and longing for the spirit of Halloweentown all year round.