October Shows in New York

Navigation guide

1. Top Broadway shows in October
2. Top musicals
3. Top plays
4. October premieres
5. Shows closing in October
6. Halloween spooky picks
7. Events in New York
8. Timeless shows in New York
9. Visitor tips
10. FAQs

October brings crisp weather, early sunsets, and a surge in anticipation for Broadway shows. The season’s energy peaks with spooky, star-studded premiers and revivals timed for Halloween buzz. If you're searching for Broadway shows in October 2025, expect a vibrant mix of musicals, plays, and limited engagements—perfect for a theatrical escape in fall’s embrace.

October premieres in New York

Fall premieres deliver fresh energy to Broadway. Expect fan favorites and hot new adaptations.

October premieres bring fresh voices and big names to Broadway shows. Here's what’s on in New York in October:

• Beetlejuice The Musical (Oct 8 at Palace Theatre): 13‑week limited run, starring Justin Collette and Madison Mosley.
• Ragtime (opening Oct 16): revival of musical about immigration and American identity.
• Oedipus (previews Oct 30): modern Greek tragedy centering on power and prophecy

New York shows closing in October

A few slate favorites say goodbye—catch them now or miss them for good. Several productions are ending this month—last chance to see them before they leave the stage!

• Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club (closes Oct 19): immersive revival with Billy Porter and Marisha Wallace—final weeks, book before it’s gone.
• Dead Outlaw (closes Oct 12): true‑crime musical about Elmer McCurdy—Tony‑nominated and final curtain soon

Halloween‑themed shows in October

Halloween energy adds thrill to Broadway. Here are shows making the season spooky.

These thrillers and spooky shows add seasonal edge perfect for a Halloween escape:

• Beetlejuice The Musical: Mischief and afterlife fun make for a spooky good time.
• Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club: dark, immersive nightlife vibe suits Halloween mood.
• Stranger Things: The First Shadow: eerie prequel play with supernatural chills.

Pro tips for visiting New York in October

Optimize your Broadway experience with insider know-how:

• Layer smart for changing weather. Daytime highs hover 17 °C, nights fall to 11 °C. Bring a light wool sweater and waterproof jacket.
• Bring a compact umbrella or shell. Rain hits roughly half the days—better to stay dry than risk soggy playbills.
• Start matinees & evenings back‑to‑back. Wednesday/Saturday 2 pm & 8 pm shows let you explore Bryant Park or Hell’s Kitchen around your tickets.
• Book Halloween shows early. Beetlejuice, Stranger Things and Cabaret sell fast around Oct 31.
• Arrive 30 minutes early. Crowds swell pre‑ and post‑show, especially near Times Square and transit hubs.
• Leverage digital lotteries & rush. Use online lotteries for Chess or Dirty Dancing for key seats without markup.
• Take short walks between theatres. Grab coffee or snacks around Shubert Alley—step outside to break up matinée‑evening double‑headers.
• Pack a portable charger. Digital tickets need it—and rideshare apps, photos, and maps drain fast.
• Stay hydrated indoors. Dry indoor heating and air‑con can dehydrate—you'll appreciate it during intermission.
• Plan post‑show strolls. End your night with an evening walk along Broadway or into Bryant Park’s lantern-lit paths.