Special Events & Exhibitions

Hidden History: Halloween Nights Behind the Scenes Friendraiser (Invite Only)

Wednesday, October 22, 2025

6:30 - 7:30pm EST

Halloween Nights Events

Step inside Eastern State like never before. As one of our valued Friends of Eastern State, you are invited to an exclusive evening that unlocks the Hidden History of our landmark site and takes you behind the curtain of Halloween Nights. 

Begin your evening with a private cocktail reception in The Speakeasy at Al Capone’s Cell. Then, hear directly from our creative team about how the nation’s most historic prison becomes Philadelphia’s most unforgettable Halloween experience. You’ll even get insider tips from our artists on haunted house design and elevating your own Halloween look. 

Along the way, you’ll hear how Eastern State’s commitment to history, preservation, and justice education informs everything we do—even the way we bring Halloween Nights to life. 

Finally, cap off your night with VIP access to the festival: skip the line and step straight into the thrills and experiences that make Halloween Nights legendary. 

We hope you’ll join us for this unique mix of history, creativity, and celebration. 

This event is by invitation only. Space is limited. Interested in finding out more? Email Joel Kelly, Senior Director of Advancement, at [email protected]

About the Panelists:

We strive to make the penitentiary and our site, programs, and exhibits accessible to all visitors. Click here to learn more about accessibility and accommodations at ESPHS.

Co-Sponsors

Event Sponsors

Interested in more events?

Hidden History: Behind the Scenes of Halloween Nights
Hidden History at Eastern State

Hidden History: Behind the Scenes of Halloween Nights

Sunday, October 19, 2025
5:30pm - 7:00pm

Go behind the scenes to see how Eastern State transforms into Halloween Nights, then enjoy a private Speakeasy reception followed by VIP access to the festival.

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