October in Oregon means crisp air, pumpkins on porches, and costumes spilling out of closets. And this fall, Northwest Children’s Theater is once again inviting families to step into the magic of The Halloween Ball at The Judy Kafoury Center for Youth Arts. Running October 11–26, the Ball has quickly become one of Portland’s most anticipated family Halloween traditions.

A Party That’s More Fun Than Fright

Designed especially for kids ages 4 and up, the Halloween Ball is all about imagination and play, not scares. The celebration begins right when families arrive: the grand staircase in The Judy’s lobby transforms into a stage for a costume parade where children (and grown-ups, if they dare) get to strut their Halloween best. Expect applause, laughter, and lots of picture-perfect moments.

From there, families step into the Black Box Theater for an interactive performance that unfolds on oversized beanbag chairs instead of traditional seats. The cast doesn’t just perform — they invite the audience into the story. After the show, the fun keeps rolling with a dance party set to Halloween favorites. This year, a live fiddler will add even more energy to the celebration. And yes, concessions are on hand with sweet treats to round out the party.

A Cast That Connects With Kids

What makes the Halloween Ball special isn’t just the costumes or the music, but the performers themselves. Returning favorites like Dustin Brown, Maggie Stanton, and Henry Martin will lead the fun, joined by Maxine Nuesa on Saturdays and Melody Wells on Sundays. Reviews from past audiences have praised the performers for the way they truly see and engage every child, making each one feel part of the show.

Family-Friendly Details

  • Dates: October 11–26, with shows Saturdays and Sundays at 10 a.m., 12:30 p.m., and 3 p.m.
  • Length: About one hour — just right for young attention spans.
  • Tickets: $15 general admission, with a discounted $5 “Arts for All” option for Oregon Trail cardholders.
  • Vibe: Costumes are strongly encouraged, participation is welcomed, and the energy is joyful rather than spooky.

Why You Should Go

Halloween in Portland comes with plenty of haunted houses and jump-scares, but families searching for a daytime celebration filled with laughter, movement, and togetherness will find it here. The Halloween Ball blends theater, music, and dance into a safe, lively alternative to trick-or-treating — a way for kids to shine in their costumes, burn off energy, and experience the joy of live performance in a setting that’s tailored to them.

For many families, it’s becoming a seasonal tradition. And once you’ve seen your little ones dancing with Cool Cat, parading down the staircase, or squealing with delight at the storytime, you’ll understand why.

This fall, if you’re looking for an event that celebrates the magic of Halloween without the nightmares, the Halloween Ball at The Judy is the place to be.