Halloween is just around the corner, and the Dayton area is gearing up for a frightfully fun time! From haunted attractions that will send shivers down your spine to family-friendly events that promise a delightful dose of spookiness, this season offers something for everyone. Whether you're a thrill-seeker, a candy enthusiast, or someone who simply enjoys the eerie ambiance of the holiday, Dayton has a treat (and maybe a trick or two) in store for you. Join us as we explore the Halloween happenings in this vibrant city and uncover the thrilling and chilling events that await.
Tom’s Maze and Pumpkin Farm
Now through November 2, Hours Vary
Don't settle for a cookie-cutter corn maze that only looks good from the air but leaves little to the imagination on the ground. Tom's Maze is grown from the ground up. Explore eight fun-filled acres of corn on the cob fun! It will be a-MAZE-ing fun! 😉
An Array of Spooky Things at Dayton Art Institute
Strange Worlds: Photographs by Jay Hoops - exhibit opens October 4
Step into the imaginative lens of Jay Hoops, a Long Island-based commercial and fine art photographer whose work thrives on exploration and experimentation. Hoops was drawn to the Polaroid format—a medium known for its instant, unfiltered results. Without the possibility of darkroom manipulation, Polaroids are often seen as pure snapshots of reality. Yet, Hoops transformed them into something altogether unexpected.
Through her mastery of dramatic lighting and evocative subjects, Hoops created a series of dreamlike, atmospheric photographs that feel as mysterious as they are mesmerizing. Each image invites you to linger, wonder, and question what lies just beyond the frame. This exhibition is exclusive to the Dayton Art Institute, offering a rare chance to experience Hoops’ hauntingly beautiful visions in person.
Special Interest Tour - Spooky Tour, October 4, 18 and November 1
Step into the shadows of art history as you dive into mysterious legends, haunting symbols, and timeless depictions of death and dying. It’s a tour that blends curiosity with a touch of the macabre—perfect for the season. End your visit with a creative project that captures the spirit of the day!
Skinner Pipe Organ "Spooktacular" - October 26, 2 p.m.
A spine-tingling experience is set to unfold as Matt Dierking from the Dayton Chapter of the American Guild of Organists takes the stage for a special Halloween concert in the Mimi and Stuart Rose Auditorium. This hauntingly delightful event features eerie silent films paired with spine-chilling music played on the magnificent Skinner Pipe Organ.
Trunk or Treat at Austin Landing
October 22, 6-9 p.m.
Austin Landing transforms into a Halloween wonderland with decorated Jeeps, inflatables, and piles of candy for the kids. Plus, football fans will be thrilled to meet Trayveon Williams and friends from the Cincinnati Bengals 🏈. Dress in your best costume, grab your candy bucket, and don’t miss the family-friendly fun, contests, and surprises that make this one of the can’t-miss Halloween events in Dayton!
Candlelight: A Haunted Evening of Halloween Classics
October 25 & 26, 6:15 & 8:30 p.m. shows
Step into the glow this season at the Dayton Masonic Center! Under the flicker of hundreds of candles, the Listeso String Quartet will bring hauntingly beautiful renditions of classics like Thriller, Danse Macabre, the Stranger Things theme, This Is Halloween, and more. This 60-minute multi-sensory performance is the perfect way to celebrate October—whether you’re a music lover, a Halloween fan, or just looking for a magical night out.
EVENT CANCELED: Troops & Treats at National Museum of the U.S. Air Force™
Due to the government shutdown, the Troops & Treats event has been canceled
October 25, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., FREE
Ghosts and goblins of all ages will not want to miss this exciting day of trick-or-treating in the museum. Dress in your favorite costume (maybe it's a pilot costume?) and be prepared for a day of free activities. Avoid any unpredictable Ohio fall weather and enjoy the views of more than 350 aerospace vehicles and missiles!
HAUNTFEST in the Oregon District
October 25, 6 p.m. - 12 a.m.
HAUNTFEST is a community gathering that celebrates the vibrant spirit of Dayton's Oregon District. This spooktacular event isn't just about fun; it's also an opportunity to support and strengthen our local community. Get ready for live music, DJ sets, delectable food trucks, refreshing beer trucks, and captivating street performers, all in one fantastic Halloween celebration! Costumes are encouraged!
Stoddard Ave Pumpkin Glow
October 27 & 28, 6 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Said to be a magical evening, the Stoddard Avenue Pumpkin Glow is nestled behind the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church in Dayton's charming Grafton Hill neighborhood. This enchanting, FREE event draws a multitude of visitors who gather to admire the mesmerizing display of individually hand-carved jack-o-lanterns. You'll find nearly 1,000 unique masterpieces, carved by novice to expert volunteers from the Dayton community!
Photo Credit: Tom Gilliam
Ghost ‘n Goblin 5K
October 28, 6:15 p.m.
Get ready to lace up for a spooktacular time at the 40th Annual Ghost n' Goblin 5k! It's a Halloween tradition where the thrills of the run meet the chills of the season. Aligned with the Ohio River Road Runners Club's mission, the Dayton Ghost 'n Goblin 5K supports local school running programs. When you register, you can choose the school district that will receive a donation. Race over to the Sinclair Community College-Centerville Regional Center for some eerie excitement.
Check Out Some Scary Movies
Now - October 31
The Historic Plaza Theatre is getting into the Halloween spirit by offering a thrilling array of holiday movies starting with Clue on September 26 and ending with Psycho on October 31 with other spooky themed showings in between. In the middle of October, you'll be intrigued to learn that Englewood Cinema will be hosting the Gem City Horror Film Fest again on October 10th and 11th. Lastly, mark your calendars for the ever-popular Slasher Night at The Neon, on October 30, brought to you by the UD English Department. This year opens with Tucker and Dale VS. Evil followed by Halloween. Your $20 ticket covers both films, however, it's wise to secure your tickets early. This promises to be a hauntingly good time!
Gather your friends, family, and costumes, and join in the frightful festivities to make this Halloween truly memorable! We wish you a thrilling and spooky season, full of laughter, scares, and sweet treats to satisfy your inner ghost or goblin. Happy Halloween, Dayton!
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Be sure to request a FREE Destination Dayton Visitors Guide and download the FREE Destination Dayton App for more about things to see and do in Dayton. For more information about Destination Dayton and the services it offers, visit DestinationDayton.org or call 800-221-8235.
