📺 Watch the FOX 5 New York coverage now and feel the Halloween spirit come to life.
A Spooktacular Celebration for Families Fighting Childhood Illness
Halloween magic took over Civic Hall in Union Square as Ronald McDonald House New York welcomed families for its annual Boo Bash — a festive day of costumes, candy, and pure joy for children battling pediatric cancer and other life-threatening illnesses.
FOX 5’s Jennifer Williams captured the laughter, excitement, and relief that filled the room as families temporarily stepped away from stressful medical routines. One parent shared how much the event meant to them:
“It just lifts our weight off our shoulders, because it has been really stressful, and just to be a little frivolous is awesome, and we really, really thank the McDonald House for organizing this for us.”
- Darius and Dimitris' Dad
This year’s Creature Feature theme transformed the venue into a spooky enchanted forest — beautifully designed by partner Flourish — where kids dressed as superheroes, goblins, and their favorite characters. Families enjoyed trick-or-treating and fun activities, topped off with delicious treats donated by Tenth and Pike.
A young guest summed up the fan-favorite tradition perfectly:
“What’s your favorite part about Halloween?”
“Candy. Trick or treat!”
Many families attending Boo Bash travel far from home for advanced pediatric care in New York City, including treatment at Memorial Sloan Kettering. Events like this deliver more than seasonal fun — they strengthen holistic care, foster emotional support, and provide family-centered care that supports well-being beyond clinical settings.
One mother, celebrating her daughter’s first ever Halloween, expressed:
“She was looking forward to this day. She lost a lot of downtime… so things like this are breaking her day. I’m very happy.”
-Current RMH-NY Caregiver
As RMH-NY continues expanding healthcare innovations, building community partnerships, and tackling health disparities, Boo Bash remains a shining example of how compassion and creativity help families reclaim normal childhood experiences — even amidst extraordinary challenges.
To support RMH-NY’s mission of providing compassionate care to families facing pediatric illness, visit:
www.rmh-newyork.org
