Halloween is coming up and with it the annual desperate scramble to find sold-out tickets, far flung parking spots, and surly cabdrivers to visit the multitude of events around Sleepy Hollow, New York, so as to not disappoint one's significant other once again. Avoid the hassle this year, come tour with us with your very own tour guide from Hell, Polly Esther!
Washington Irving's home "Sunnyside" on the Hudson River in Irvington, New York. Photo Tom Nycz.
We have designed a delectable day of fun and silliness to celebrate that now worldwide holiday, Halloween, in its very birthplace, Sleepy Hollow, New York. We will pick you up at the Irvington train station to visit Sunnyside, the charming home of author Washington Irving, in the eponymous town of Irvington, NY. Irving was the author of the "Legend of Sleepy Hollow" first published in 1820 - almost 200 years ago!
Sleepy Hollow Cemetery in Sleepy Hollow, New York. Photo: Jim Logan.
After we partake of a delectable autumn themed picnic lunch on the beautiful grounds of Sunnyside overlooking the Hudson, we will transport you by flying carpet, or if not available, by van to historic Tarrytown, NY, for refreshments and a stroll down charming Main Street, often used as a movie set. Then we'll stop by Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, the last resting place of numerous famous figures, including Irving, whose story is set in the Old Dutch Burying Ground.
Jonathan Kruk performing "Irving's Legend" at The Old Dutch Church in Sleepy Hollow, New York. Photo Tom Nycz.
We'll then visit Irving's place of worship, the historic Old Dutch Church adjacent to the cemetery grounds, to hear famed storyteller, Jonathan Kruk, relate the "Legend of Sleepy Hollow" in his own inimitable fashion.
"Horseman's Hollow" haunted village at Philipsburg Manor, New York. Photo Jennifer Mitchell.
After a luscious picnic spread, we'll cross the street to the historic village of Philipsburg Manor, dating back to 1693, and now transformed into a ghoulish haunted village, "Horseman's Hollow." After experiencing its unspeakable horrors, we'll board our flying carpet, er van, again and head (no pun intended) to Van Cortlandt Manor, dating back to 1750, to the Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze for the grand finale. If you like pumpkins, you'll be blown away by this multitudinous arrangement of thousands of Jack O'Lanterns all lit up in the dark. It is literally indescribable!
The Pumpkin Zee Bridge at the Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze at Van Cortlandt Manor New York. Photo Angie Gaul.
After your long but happy day, we'll drop you off at the Croton-Harmon train station where you can catch the train back to Irvington to pick up your car or back to Da City. If you watch closely, you can catch a glimpse of Sunnyside from the train!
Spooky Horseman's Hollow guide at Philipsburg Manor, New York. Photo Tom Nycz.
Come dressed as your worst nightmare! Prizes for most horrific and funniest costume. Recommended for mobile adults. Includes walking on uneven surfaces in the dark, uphill, and stairs. Sorry, no children. Solo guests are particularly welcome on all our tours!