Halloween in Columbus is a time for all to embrace the season’s magic in their unique way. Whether you enjoy the spooky, historical, or festive aspects of the holiday, Columbus has something for everyone. Most Halloween events in Columbus occur throughout October, leading up to Halloween. Specific dates vary by event, so it’s best to check event websites or local listings on My Spirit Halloween for detailed schedules.
From ghost tours and haunted houses to family-friendly festivals and creative performances, let this guide lead you to your perfect Halloween adventure.
1. Columbus’ Thrilling Movies & Performances
Love the dramatic flair of Halloween? Swap your usual movie night for a local show or film screening to add a theatrical touch to your celebrations, complete with live performances, immersive environments, and eerie atmospheres that will elevate your spooky experience.
Hitchcocktober at Gateway Film Center: Celebrate the suspense master Alfred Hitchcock by watching his films in their original 35mm format, screened daily throughout October. This event creates the perfect eerie ambiance for film lovers who appreciate classic thrillers.
Rocky Horror Show Live at Short North Stage: Columbus’ very own interpretation of the iconic cult classic brings laughter, shivers, and audience participation. Perfect for those who love interactive performances and a night of fun.
2. Terrifying Haunted Experiences
For those who relish the thrill of being scared, Columbus offers hair-raising haunted houses and tours. Brave souls, gather your courage, and explore these spine-chilling attractions.
- ZOMBIEzi Bay: The beloved Zoombezi Bay transforms into a terrifying zombie-filled world, featuring multiple haunted houses and scare zones. Ideal for teens and adults seeking an extreme Halloween experience.
- Ohio Statehouse Haunted Tours: Step into the eerie past of Ohio’s political hub. Follow the lantern-lit paths and encounter ghostly figures as you explore the haunted corners of this historic landmark.
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3. Family-Friendly Halloween Fun
Not all Halloween events are about the scares—many are perfect for younger trick-or-treaters or families looking for a festive, non-spooky day out.
Boo at the Zoo: The Columbus Zoo & Aquarium invites families to enjoy a Halloween-themed adventure complete with costumes, candy, and even a special spooky train ride. This event runs every weekend in October from October 6-29, during regular zoo hours. Location: Columbus Zoo & Aquarium, 4850 Powell Rd, Powell, OH 43065. Tickets are included with regular zoo admission, which ranges from $16.99-$21.99, depending on the day and age group. Get Ticket
All Hallows’ Eve at Ohio Village: Step back in time with this Victorian-era celebration, featuring pumpkin carving, storytelling, and other charming fall activities for kids and adults alike. This event takes place on Saturdays, October 7, 14, 21, and 28, from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM. Location: Ohio Village, 800 E 17th Ave. Columbus, OH 43211. Ticket prices are $8 for Ohio History Connection members and $16 for non-members. Get Ticket
4. Columbus’ Unique Community Celebrations
Halloween isn’t complete without joining in on some of the local community festivals. These vibrant celebrations offer everything from pet costume contests to dazzling pumpkin displays.
- HOWLoween Pet Contest & Fall Festival at Easton: This pet costume contest is one of the cutest events of the season. Bring your furry friend in their best costume for a chance to win big, while enjoying fall-themed activities.
- The Great Westerville Pumpkin Glow: A magical pumpkin display awaits as you wind through a trail of over 1,500 glowing carved pumpkins. This annual event is a must-see for families.
5. Unforgettable Ghost Tours
For history buffs and paranormal enthusiasts alike, ghost tours offer a fascinating, and sometimes unnerving, glimpse into Columbus’ haunted past. These tours combine storytelling, history, and spine-tingling ghost tales to create an unforgettable experience.
Columbus Ghost Tours take visitors on eerie explorations through iconic locations, from the historic Greenlawn Cemetery during the day to moonlit adventures through the city’s most haunted sites. Participants will uncover chilling stories about long-forgotten souls, famous residents, and mysterious happenings that have left their mark on the city.
Whether you’re a skeptic or a true believer, these tours provide an unforgettable look at Columbus’s paranormal side.
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6. Celebrate Halloween with Music, Drinks, and Dance
For those who prefer to celebrate Halloween by immersing themselves in music, vibrant nightlife, and festive-themed parties, Columbus has plenty of incredible options. From EDM festivals to spooky bar crawls, the city offers a lively mix of entertainment with a haunting atmosphere that perfectly captures the Halloween spirit.
Spooky Music Fests
Haunted Beats Fest: Dive into the electrifying world of Columbus’s biggest Halloween-themed EDM festival. Held annually, this event features some of the hottest DJs and artists spinning high-energy beats all night long. Expect jaw-dropping light shows, mesmerizing stage setups, and eerie performances that turn the venue into a hauntingly unforgettable experience.
Perfect for electronic music lovers who want to dance the night away with a spooky twist. Costumes are highly encouraged to enhance the party vibe and make the event even more immersive.
Costume Parties & Parades
Halloween Bar Crawl: Looking for a wild night out? Columbus’s Halloween Bar Crawl brings together the city’s best nightlife spots, with multiple themed bars participating in this one-of-a-kind Halloween experience.
Partygoers can hop from one venue to another, enjoying drink specials, spooky-themed cocktails, live music in Colombes, and the chance to take part in costume contests with amazing prizes. The crawl is designed for those who want to mingle, enjoy creative drinks, and dance their way through the heart of the city. Grab your scariest or most creative outfit and get ready for a night of thrilling entertainment!
Here’s a table with the details for the Halloween Bar Crawl in Columbus, including the venue, start time, date, and other relevant information:
| Event | Venue | Date | Start Time | Parade Time | Ticket Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Halloween Bar Crawl | Various Downtown Bars | Saturday, Oct 28 | 6:00 PM | 8:00 PM | $20 (online) / $25 (at the door) |
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for heart-pounding thrills, family-friendly fun, or something in between, Halloween in Columbus has an event to suit every kind of celebration. This spooky season, venture out to experience the magic and mystery that awaits around every corner. Dive into the spirit of Halloween—Columbus style!
FAQs
Columbus offers a variety of Halloween events, including Boo at the Zoo, All Hallows’ Eve at Ohio Village, Haunted Beats Fest, and the Halloween Bar Crawl. Each event caters to different age groups and interests, making it easy to find something for everyone.
Yes! Events like Boo at the Zoo and All Hallows’ Eve at Ohio Village are designed for families and provide a safe, fun environment for younger children to enjoy Halloween-themed activities without the scares.
Most Halloween events in Columbus occur throughout October, leading up to Halloween. Specific dates vary by event, so it’s best to check event websites or local listings for detailed schedules.
While some events allow for walk-ins, it’s recommended to purchase tickets in advance, especially for popular events like Haunted Beats Fest and Boo at the Zoo, to ensure entry and avoid long lines.
Absolutely! Many Halloween events, including the Halloween Bar Crawl and themed festivals, encourage attendees to wear costumes. This adds to the festive atmosphere and allows you to fully embrace the Halloween spirit.