LACONIA BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Midnight Masks and Buffet Plates: A Three‑Hour Halloween Masquerade Ball Afloat in Laconia
A three-hour seasonal cruise featuring a buffet dinner, entertainment and the Lakes Region's wildest costume contest — this guide details what to expect and how to prepare.
Midnight Masks and Buffet Plates: A Three‑Hour Halloween Masquerade Ball Afloat in Laconia.
Adventure brief
Midnight Masks and Buffet Plates: A Three‑Hour Halloween Masquerade Ball Afloat in Laconia
Join the Halloween Masquerade Ball in Laconia for a three-hour cruise on the M/S Mount Washington that pairs a buffet dinner and onboard entertainment with seasonal treats and a costume contest — the final cruise of the season and an annual Lakes Region tradition.
Celebrate Halloween like never before on the Halloween Masquerade Ball, a unique three-hour boat tour hosted by Mount Washington Cruises on the scenic waters of Lake Winnipesaukee in Laconia, New Hampshire. This event combines the thrill of a costume party with the elegance of a lakeside cruise, offering a buffet dinner featuring seasonal treats, live entertainment, and a lively costume contest recognized as the wildest in the Lakes Region. As the evening unfolds, guests will enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding autumn foliage, creating a magical backdrop for photos and memories. Whether you come dressed in full Halloween regalia or prefer to enjoy the atmosphere as a spectator, this event promises a festive and spirited way to embrace the spooky season. The cruise caters to all ages and groups, making it perfect for families, friends, and couples looking for an unforgettable night out on the water. With top-notch hospitality, delectable food, and interactive fun, the Halloween Masquerade Ball is a standout seasonal tradition for locals and visitors alike. Prepare to set sail under the crisp fall sky, connecting with others over shared laughter, delicious food, and vibrant costumes.
Route Schematic
Itinerary Snapshot
A compact sequence of boarding, dining and entertainment across a single three-hour sailing.
Boarding — Weirs Beach
Guests meet and board at the designated dock for check-in before departure.
Onboard buffet & entertainment
During the cruise a buffet dinner is served while scheduled entertainment keeps the mood lively.
Costume contest & seasonal treats
The ship hosts the event's costume contest and distributes seasonal treats as part of the program.
Return and disembark
The cruise completes its three-hour loop and returns to the dock for disembarkation.
This is an evening, adult-oriented event; participants should be prepared for cool fall temperatures on deck and follow operator instructions for safety and boarding.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A three-hour masque on the water
The Halloween Masquerade Ball is a three-hour cruise that combines a full dinner service, live entertainment and seasonal treats, capped by the Lakes Region's famously rowdy costume contest.
Buffet service aboard the M/S Mount Washington
The cruise includes a buffet dinner served onboard as part of the programmed evening.
Final cruise of the season
As the season closer for Mount Washington Cruises, this annual masquerade is presented as the last sailing of the year and a signature way to mark the spooky season on the water.
What the day feels like
What the night feels like
The evening unfolds as a contained three-hour program: boarding at the dock, an onboard buffet and entertainment punctuated by seasonal treats, and a costume contest that defines the party — all aboard the M/S Mount Washington for the final cruise of the season.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this evening suits — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The cruise runs three hours.
Boarding is at 211 Lakeside Ave, Weirs Beach, NH 03246.
Bring a jacket — fall evenings on the lake can be chilly; monitor the weather forecast and dress accordingly.
The M/S Mount Washington operates as a full-service vessel; outside food and beverage are not permitted and the fleet is non-smoking.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Can I bring my own food and drinks?
No. The M/S Mount Washington is a full-service restaurant and outside food and beverage are not permitted; customers with such items will be asked to return them to their cars or dispose of them prior to check-in.
Is smoking permitted on board?
No. All vessels in the Winnipesaukee fleet are non-smoking; smoking and vaping are not permitted.
Are dogs permitted on board?
Only ADA service animals are permitted; WFC personnel will screen requests consistent with federal law and misrepresentation of a service animal may be subject to a federal fine.
Is there an age requirement?
Yes. The Halloween Masquerade Ball is for ages 21 and over.
How long is the cruise?
The Halloween Masquerade Ball cruise lasts three hours.
Where do I meet for boarding?
Guests meet at 211 Lakeside Ave, Weirs Beach, NH 03246 for check-in and boarding.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-08-10T12:59:01.880Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.