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Beneath the Hudson: An Immersive Halloween Adventure at EMPAC
Friday, October 30, 2026, 3–10PM
EMPAC — Troy, NY
Free
Everyone in Troy knows the river. Few know what lies beneath it.
Night falls over Troy. An unnatural fog rises from the Hudson, extinguishing every light. From within the mist comes the desperate signal of a steamboat, but no vessel can be seen.
Local legend tells of a steamer destroyed by a mysterious explosion more than a century ago, its burning wreck drifting for days before sinking beneath the waters. Sailors whispered it was no accident—something ancient emerged from the fog, claimed the ship, and has waited below ever since . . .
Now the fog has returned. And it’s calling for a new crew to enter the depths.
Will you follow it Beneath the Hudson?
Inspired by Troy's maritime past, EMPAC transforms local history into a supernatural adventure for one night only. Journey through the haunted remains of the lost vessel, encounter ghostly sailors, forgotten lockkeepers and strange river creatures, uncover what happened on board, and see if you can escape the curse.
The adventure spills throughout EMPAC with Halloween festivities for all ages. Trick-or-treat through the building, pose with theatrical props from Proctors Theatre, and grab a spooky snack at Evelyn’s Café. Halloween movies screen all evening. Troy’s FlagSSSDay Collective leads a hands-on craft activity and brings out regalia from its Crow Procession. Make masks for the party that can also be worn at the Crow Procession on December 12th; keep an eye out for crows flocking throughout the party.
Cheer on the costume contests with guest judges—or take the stage yourself. After the kids head home, the lights go down and the party gets darker with a DJ and cash bar.
Schedule:
- Studio 1—Goodman, 3–10PM: Haunted Ship Experience, recommended for ages 9 and up.
- Evelyn’s Café, 3–10PM: Spooky snacks and Proctors Theatre photo booth. Beer and wine bar opens at 7PM.
- Evelyn’s Café, 7–10PM: Hellseeker Club DJs: Rachel Rave + 100 Psychic Dreams.
- Studio 2, 3–10PM: Chill Out Space.
- 6th Floor Mezzanine, 3–7PM: FlagsssDay Collective craft activity.
- 7th Floor Lobby, 3–10PM: Trick-or-treat stations.
- Theater, 4–5PM: Kids’ Costume Competition.
- Theater, 5PM: Muppet Treasure Island (1996).
- Theater, 7PM: Adult Costume Competition.
- Theater, 8PM: Lake Placid (1999).
The haunted ship portion of the experience is recommended for ages 9 and up.