2026 Guide To Finding Free Halloween Decorations In Brooklyn
Last Updated on December 21, 2025 by Erin Donahue
Brooklyn might just give Manhattan a run for its money when it comes to Halloween decorations. In fact, it has some of the best in all of the five boroughs. With its unique culture, distinct character, and beautiful photo-worthy streets, Brooklyn deserves way more Halloween hype than it gets. Sure, everyone knows about Manhattan’s decorated neighborhoods like the West Village, Upper East Side, and Upper West Side, but quite frankly, that’s a bit overplayed.
Maybe it’s because the houses are closer together or the grid makes it easier to walk around, but certain parts of Brooklyn are absolutely next level when it comes to Halloween decorations, and they don’t get nearly the attention they deserve! If you love photographing decked-out brownstones, quirky neighborhood displays, or just soaking up Halloween spirit, this is your guide to the best Halloween decorations in Brooklyn. This article is a work in progress, so be sure to check back for updates!
When Is the Best Time to See Halloween Decorations in Brooklyn?
It goes without saying that come October 1st, possibly even earlier, Halloween decorations start popping up outside of people’s homes. This time of year marks the unofficial start to the holiday season, since Christmas lights and decorations go up immediately after Halloween ends. Some of the houses listed in this article that go all out for Halloween are also known for their over-the-top Christmas displays.
Map of Halloween Decorations in Brooklyn
Best Neighborhoods for Halloween Decorations in Brooklyn
Brooklyn Heights
This idyllic waterfront neighborhood sets the bar for elegant stoop decor. Cobblestone streets, historic brownstones, and a backdrop of fall leaves make it one of the most cinematic Halloween walks in the city. Don’t miss:
- Willow St. between Pierpoint & Clark St.
- Hicks St. & Cranberry St.
Prospect Park South
Hidden deep in Brooklyn is a pocket of grand Victorian and Colonial Revival mansions that look straight out of a movie set. Prospect Park South itself feels worlds away from the rest of Brooklyn. It’s a glimpse of old New York suburbia hiding in plain sight, and during Halloween, it’s one of the few times the neighborhood’s grandeur spills out onto social media.
The showstopper is 1306 Albemarle Road, a sprawling 1905 Queen Anne–style home designed by architect John J. Petit. With its wraparound porch, shingled turret, and corner-lot presence, it’s already one of the neighborhood’s most striking properties. Come Halloween, it turns theatrical with animatronic figures, skeletons scaling the façade, and eerie projections in the windows. It’s reportedly owned by Pulitzer Prize–winning playwright David Lindsay-Abaire, which explains the flair for drama.
Bay Ridge
If you visit one neighborhood in Brooklyn for Halloween decorations, make it Bay Ridge. This is where Brooklyn’s Halloween spirit truly shines. The neighborhood is filled with family homes that turn into haunted showcases, making every block a photo opportunity. Best streets for Halloween decorations:
- 635 79th St.
- 79th Street (6th & 7th Ave)
- 81st Street (Colonial & Narrows)
- 80th Street (Ridge & Colonial)
- Colonial Rd (82nd & 83rd St)
Dyker Heights
Known for its legendary Christmas decorations, Dyker Heights also delivers a showstopping Halloween experience. You’ll find front yards covered in a variety of spooky decor.
- 84th Street (corner of 10th Ave)
- 82nd Street (12th & 13th Ave)
Williamsburg
In Williamsburg, the vibe is more “cool and curated” than “haunted mansion,” but it’s perfect for capturing Brooklyn’s gentrified twist on Halloween.
- Berry St. & Metropolitan Ave.
Cobble Hill
Carroll Gardens
Tips for Photographing Halloween Decorations in Brooklyn
Before you start snapping, keep these tips in mind to get the best shots while being a respectful visitor:
- Most displays are private homes, so photograph from the sidewalk only.
- Bring a wide-angle lens or phone lens attachment for those tall stoops.
FAQ About Brooklyn Halloween Decorations
Q: When do Halloween decorations go up in Brooklyn?
A: Most go up around October 1, with peak displays by mid to late October.
Q: Which Brooklyn neighborhood has the best Halloween houses?
A: Bay Ridge and Dyker Heights consistently top the list for scale and creativity.
Q: Are the decorations free to visit?
A: Yes! All the locations listed here are private homes, and viewing is free — just be courteous and avoid blocking stoops or driveways.
Q: How do I get there by subway?
A: Take the R train to Bay Ridge Ave; the 2/5 trains to Flatbush; and the A/C/2/3 to Brooklyn Heights.
To keep up to date with everything I share, follow along on my social media and read up on what camera gear I use when I photograph around NYC.
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is the creative studio of Erin Donahue, offering photography, videography, and content creation services for brands, hotels, tourism boards, and publications.
Based in New York City, but available globally, this multi-disciplinary digital creative left a career in the hedge fund space to pursue her passion as a travel and brand photographer, creating imagery that resonates with audiences. She approaches every project with a focus on storytelling, producing visuals that engage and inspire.
Her work has been commissioned by brands like Sony, Apple, and Google, and the content she has created has reached millions across social media.
To keep up to date with everything she shares, follow along on social media and read up on what camera gear she uses to capture the shot.
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