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 3, 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! 😉
Spirit of Huffman Home Tour
October 5, 12-4 p.m.
Uncover the rich history of the Huffman neighborhood during the biennial guided tour. Stroll through the charming streets of Huffman as you hear captivating stories about its early 1900s residents, from bricklayers to factory workers. Visit the historic Carnegie library and four unique Victorian-era homes while discovering how this community has fostered a spirit of neighborliness that continues to thrive today!
An Arrary of Things at Dayton Art Institute
Devil's Promenade - exhibit opens October 5
This captivating exhibition encourages viewers to engage with the complexities of rural Missouri's "Spook Light" history and its people, inviting questions and interpretations about light, darkness, and the stories that connect us all. Photographers Lara Shipley and Antone Dolezal blend portraiture with landscape and folklore, capturing the rich storytelling and religious themes of the Ozarks. What a mysterious and enchanting phenomenon!
Skinner Pipe Organ "Spooktacular" - October 27, 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.
Behind the Scenes Building Tour, October 27
Do you think the Dayton Art Institute is spooky? At this event you'll learn about the history and lore of the museum, uncovering the "skeletons" in its closet. To top it off, you'll have the chance to craft your very own commemorative screen print tote, perfect for carrying your Halloween goodies.
Ghost ‘n Goblin 5K
October 22, 6:15 p.m.
Get ready to lace up for a spooktacular time at the 39th 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.
Troops & Treats at National Museum of the U.S. Air Force™
October 26, 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 26, 7 p.m. - 1 a.m.
HAUNTFEST is a community gathering that celebrates the vibrant spirit of Dayton's Entertainment & Entrepreneurial neighborhood. This spooktacular event isn't just about fun; it's also an opportunity to support and strengthen our local community. HAUNTFEST doubles as a fundraiser for the Oregon District Business Association, helping fund year-round improvement efforts within the district. 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 28 & 29, 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!
Haunted Hearts: A Halloween Party Fundraiser
October 31, 8 p.m.
Set in the enchanting and eerie Rotunda of the historic Dayton Arcade, enjoy a spine-tingling Halloween party! This thrilling event celebrates art, music, and creativity, featuring stunning installations by emerging local artists and electrifying DJ sets. Guests are encouraged to don their most creative costumes for a chance to win a cash prize in the costume contest, while indulging in delicious bites from Chef Desmond and enjoying free tarot readings. With a portion of the proceeds benefiting Heartsiq and Culture Works, this unforgettable night promises fun and community support in a captivating setting!
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 Hocus Pocus on September 27 and ending with Halloween 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! Buy a ticket for that includes BOTH Friday, October 18th AND Saturday, October 19th showings OR buy individual evening tickets. We might be biased and tell you to purchase a Friday ticket for sure though, as you'll get to see Dayton filmmaker Victor Bonacore's feature length Thrust! Lastly, mark your calendars for the ever-popular Slasher Night at The Neon, on October 29, brought to you by the UD English Department. This year, they're screening a double feature: A Nightmare on Elm Street followed by Scream. Your $20 ticket covers both films, however, after the success of last year's event, 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.
