Philadelphia, PA (Oct. 2, 2025) – Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site is set to deliver a dynamic and thought-provoking October, offering visitors a robust calendar of programs that intricately weave together history, art, and civic dialogue. From behind-the-scenes glimpses into its chilling transformation for Halloween to deep dives into the justice system and family-friendly festivities, the month provides diverse opportunities for all ages to connect with the site's profound legacy and its continuing relevance today.
“October is one of the most exciting times of year at Eastern State,” said Dr. Kerry Sautner, President and CEO of Eastern State. “Whether you’re here for a family-friendly festival, a behind-the-scenes tour, or an engaging conversation on the justice system, these programs bring Eastern State to life in ways that are both fun and meaningful. We’re proud to open our gates to the community with experiences that both inspire and challenge us.”
Here’s a look at Eastern State’s comprehensive October calendar:
Halloween Nights at Eastern State Penitentiary Select Nights, Friday, September 19 – Saturday, November 8 Philadelphia’s celebrated Halloween festival returns, completely transforming the historic penitentiary into an immersive autumn destination. Halloween Nights features five haunted houses, atmospheric historic night tours, themed bars, live performances, and other captivating experiences spread across the ten-acre complex. Ticket prices vary by night.
Jewish History Self-Guided Walking Tour Monday, September 22 – Monday, October 13 This unique self-guided experience delves into the narratives of Jewish prisoners at Eastern State Penitentiary, including a visit to the site of the first synagogue in an American prison. Personal stories are woven into the broader tapestry of Jewish life in Philadelphia. This experience is included with general admission.
Justice 101: Excessive Punishment: The 8th Amendment and the Justice System Thursday, October 23, 6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. (Hybrid Event) What defines a "cruel and unusual" punishment? This installment of Justice 101, hosted by the Eastern State Center for Justice Education, will explore the Eighth Amendment’s history, purpose, and evolving legal interpretation in American justice. The program will take place at Triple Bottom Brewing (915 Spring Garden Street) and feature Lauren-Brooke Eisen, Senior Director of the Brennan Center’s Justice Program, and Kermit Roosevelt III, author and professor of constitutional law at the University of Pennsylvania Law School. The discussion will be moderated by Dr. Kerry Sautner.
Hidden History: Behind the Scenes of Halloween Nights Sunday, October 19, 2025, 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Experience Halloween Nights like never before with a VIP Hidden History tour. Guests will go behind the scenes to explore sets, hidden passageways, and theatrical spaces before the public enters. Members of the creative team will share insights into transforming the nation’s most historic prison into Philadelphia’s unforgettable Halloween experience. The tour concludes with a private reception in The Speakeasy at Al Capone’s Cell, followed by VIP access to Halloween Nights.
Mobile Museum and Guide-Led Tour: Roots and Realities of Solitary Confinement Saturday, October 25 - Sunday, October 26, 2025, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Eastern State invites reflection on its legacy as the birthplace of solitary confinement. Each day, a "Roots and Realities" guided tour and discussion will be offered at 11:00 a.m. (included with admission). Additionally, on October 25 and 26, the Journey to Justice bus tour – presented by the Unlock the Box campaign and Look2Justice – will be on Fairmount Avenue. This free mobile museum, housed in an interactive "skoolie" (repurposed school bus), explores solitary confinement through art, education, and firsthand stories, with guides directly impacted by the practice.
Fall Festival Sunday, October 26, 2025, 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Eastern State Penitentiary will transform into a hub of family-friendly fall fun. Activities include trick-or-treating through the penitentiary, a special scavenger hunt designed for kids and caregivers to explore the site’s history, story time, hands-on activities, art making, live music, and more. Children in costume and their caregivers receive free admission, with no reservations required.
Eastern State's October programming promises a compelling mix of historical immersion, seasonal festivities, and crucial societal reflection, inviting the community to engage with this iconic landmark in meaningful new ways.
