You don’t have to wait until October to get into the Halloween spirit! The Witching Hour Masquerade Ball has officially announced its return and it’s only 30 minutes from Austin. This experience is part Victorian gala, part high-stakes paranormal investigation.
Best of all? It takes place on May 1st and 2nd which happens to be the 400th anniversary of the founding of Salem. It all goes down at the only Halloween History Museum, a unique treasure tucked right in the heart of Texas. Snag your tickets to this very limited event below:
An Evening of Ritual and Revelry

Whether you’re looking to dance under the stars or summon the spirits, the evening is packed with immersive activities:
- The Besom Ritual: Join the collective “crossing of the broomsticks” around a massive bonfire to cast out negative energy and hexes.
- Haunted Hospitality: Enjoy delectable appetizers and custom craft cocktails served by a staff of haunted butlers.
- The Paranormal Forest: For the truly brave, a ghastly paranormal experience awaits in the dark woods surrounding the museum.
Museum After Dark: Take a candlelit tour of the museum’s rare artifacts and participate in authentic Ouija board sessions.
Dress to Impress for Costume Contests (and Cast Spells)

This is not your average costume party. The dress code calls for your finest Victorian Gothic or High Witch attire. Expect a red-carpet arrival where “creatures of the night” gather to celebrate witchy history and unveil the mysteries of the museum’s latest acquisition: a newly unearthed haunted coffin.
If you are the best dressed Enter the Witches Broom Contest or the Costume Contest to see who reigns supreme over the Austin coven. There will also be Gothic and Victorian vendors and gifts to add to your collection!
Event & Tickets For The Witching Hour Masquerade Ball

- Where: The Halloween History Museum (149 Split Rail Ln, Smithville)
- When: Date: May 1st and 2nd, 7pm to midnight
- Tickets: On sale now—masks are provided to all attendees upon entry.
- Important Note: *All guests must be 21+ to enter.
General Admission Tickets – The essential ticket for a night of mystery and magic & includes:
- Two custom cocktails, “Blood” champagne, and gourmet hors d’oeuvres served by haunted butlers.
- Candlelit museum tours, hayride to a ghastly forest séance, and participation in the bonfire Besom ritual. Full access to the costume ball, Ouija sessions, palm readings, and Gothic vendors.
- Access to the Cackling Witch Cafe, Dragon’s Breath Tavern, and Coffin Cat Bar.
VIP Admission: The High Sorcery Suite – For the elite witch who demands the ultimate protection and perks.
- Everything General Admission Includes
- VIP Priority: Up-front priority parking.
- The VIP Gift Box ($90 Value): Includes a Royale masquerade mask with dual-coven access, a witch’s protection amulet, a leather-bound spell book, and more.
- Exclusive Rituals: Access to the VIP-only Smudging Ritual and the Spell Creation Bar to craft your own charms.
Wolf Pack Special: Group Admission (Set of 4): Strength in numbers in your coven!
- Secure admission for four guests at a discounted group rate.
- Includes all General Admission perks for every member of your pack. Perfect for a full coven outing!