OCT. 16–17 + 23–24, 2026
October 16–17 & 23–24, 2026
5–5:59 PM or 6–6:30 PM
Event ends at 8 PM
No On-Site Parking for Ghosts on the Banke
Plan Ahead for Parking
A Halloween Adventure Through History
Trick-or-treat with spirits from America’s founding as the historic Puddle Dock neighborhood comes alive after dark.
Meet wayward pirates, visit a mysterious fortune-teller, hear ghostly tales, make giant spider webs, dance to haunting music, and play games for prizes.
Designed especially for children ages 4-8, Ghosts on the Banke offers plenty of Halloween atmosphere without being frightening. Costumes are encouraged and guests of every age are welcome.
New for 2026
Meet the Ghosts of Puddle Dock in a New Way
Historic figures will appear throughout the Puddle Dock neighborhood through projections, bringing stories from the past to life after dark and adding a new layer of atmosphere to Ghosts on the Banke.
Trick-or-Treat Through History
Visit historic houses and collect treats while meeting unusual characters from Portsmouth’s past.
Stories, Games, & Activities
Hear ghostly tales, escape the thunder maze, and play family-friendly games throughout the grounds.
Music & Mischief
Dance beneath the lights, visit the witches door, and enjoy surprises around every corner.
Choose Your Night
Ghosts on the Banke takes place on four nights only. Choose your preferred date and arrival window early, as popular times may sell out.
Members
$8.50 or free, depending on membership level
Members receive 50% off regular admission, with complimentary and discounted ticket quantities based on membership level.
Member pricing remains available throughout the entire sales period.
Regular Admission
$17
Select from available arrival windows on October 16–17 and 23–24. Advance purchase is strongly recommended.
Four nights only.
Arrival windows may sell out.
“Our family loved the interactive games, the vibes, the live music, the smoke bubble machine. Ghosts on the Banke was so fun!”
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Helpful Things to Know
-
Yes. No online registration is required. Bring the paper library pass with you and present it upon arrival.
-
Ticket changes may be requested within 24 hours of purchase and are subject to availability. Changes after that 24-hour period are subject to a ticketing date transfer fee.
-
Tickets are nonrefundable but may be transferred to another person. Simply forward the e-ticket or give the printed ticket to the person attending.
-
Your e-tickets are linked in an email titled “Strawbery Banke Museum — eTickets.” You may show them on your phone or bring printed copies.
-
There is no general on-site parking for Ghosts on the Banke. Limited accessible parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis for vehicles displaying a valid disability plate or placard. Guests should park nearby and allow extra time to walk to the Museum.
-
You do not need to arrive at the exact start of your selected arrival window. Guests may enter at any point during that window.
-
Weapons of any kind, pets other than ADA-defined service animals, smoking or vaping products, cannabis and its derivatives, and outside alcohol are not permitted. Museum staff may also prohibit any item that could pose a safety concern or disrupt the event.
-
Activities are designed especially for children ages 4–8, but guests of all ages are welcome. Many adults attend without children, too.
-
Ghosts on the Banke is spooky, not scary. Guests can enjoy plenty of Halloween atmosphere without frightening content.
-
Yes! Costumes are encouraged. Costumes that are culturally insensitive, overly explicit, or inappropriate for a family event are not permitted. Museum staff reserve the right to determine whether a costume meets these guidelines.
Ghosts on the Banke is presented in part by
