Independence Mall Hosts “Hocus Pocus” Screening October 16, Followed by Halloween in the Historic District October 18

Independence Mall Hosts “Hocus Pocus” Screening October 16, Followed by Halloween in the Historic District October 18

The Independence Visitor Center, in collaboration with Independence Historical Trust and the Historic District Partners, will host two free Halloween events in Philly’s Historic District: Movies on the Mall on Friday, October 16, and the third annual Halloween in the Historic District on Sunday, October 18. The Visitor Center will serve as the hub for both events, which offer families a movie screening, story time and trick-or-treating at businesses and cultural institutions throughout the neighborhood.

Movies on the Mall closes its season on Friday, October 16, with the Halloween favorite “Hocus Pocus” (1993). The movie begins at 7 p.m. on Independence Mall. The screen will be outside the Independence Visitor Center, 599 Market Street, facing Arch Street.

Guests are encouraged to arrive early for pre-show activities hosted by select Historic District partners, including:

• African American Museum in Philadelphia (AAMP)
• Athenaeum of Philadelphia
• Independence Historical Trust
• Museum of the American Revolution
• National Liberty Museum
• National Park Service
• Science History Institute
• WHYY

Guests are encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs. The screening is free, and advance registration is encouraged at inht.org/events-and-programs.

On Sunday, October 18, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., families are invited to the third annual Halloween in the Historic District, which begins at the Independence Visitor Center, 599 Market Street. The event is free.

At the Visitor Center’s information desk, children can pick up complimentary treat bags, candy and maps. The Visitor Center will also offer:

• A family-friendly Halloween craft
• Story time with an Edgar Allan Poe impersonator, whose tales organizers say will “add a touch of mystery to the day”

The maps will guide trick-or-treaters to more than 40 participating businesses and organizations throughout the neighborhood. Select locations will offer special events and programs along with candy and seasonal treats. Costumes are encouraged, and participants in costume will earn free rides on the Philly PHLASH.

The event is presented through the collaboration of Historic District partners, including the Visitor Center, Independence National Historical Park and Independence Historical Trust.

Participating Locations

Participating locations on the Halloween in the Historic District map include:

• African American Museum in Philadelphia
• American Philosophical Society Museum
• Arch Street Meeting House Preservation Trust
• Betsy Ross House
• Carpenters’ Hall
• Elfreth’s Alley Museum
• Fireman’s Hall Museum
• Franklin Square
• Independence Historical Trust
• Independence National Historical Park
• Independence Visitor Center
• Ministry of Awe
• Museum of the American Revolution
• National Constitution Center
• National Liberty Museum
• Old City District businesses