Here’s a list of major Halloween-related events in the Madison, WI area. Keep in mind that many bars will have their own parties and costume contests.
Wednesday, Oct. 23
- Downtown Madison Family Halloween (free): Trick-or-treat from 70 downtown locations and enjoy activities at places including the Overture Center, from 3-6 p.m.
- NAWP Charity Fundraiser Paw’ty ($20): This is a fundraiser for the Dane County Humane Society, starting at 5:30 p.m. at Lone Girl Brewing. Costumes encouraged.
Friday, Oct. 25
- Downtown Trick or Treat (free): If the kiddos didn’t get enough trick-or-treating at State Street businesses on Wednesday, they can head to Middleton and do it all over again from 3-5 p.m. at 39 locations.
- Halloween Spooktacular (free): Yes, this is an egg hunt in October, and it starts at 5:45 p.m. at Winnequah Dream Park in Monona. Afterward, enjoy an outdoor movie.
- Fall Fest (free): Stay in Monona and head to the Aldo Leopold Nature Center from 5:30-7:30 p.m.. Take part in family-friendly activities such as a costume parade and “sweet” science experiments.
- Member Monster Mash ($5 members, $10 public): An after-hours party at the Madison Children’s Museum features crafts and other activities, from 6-8 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 26
- Halloween Boo ‘ N View: Rocky Horror Picture Show ($5 advance/$8 door): Let’s do the time warp again in this 4 p.m. matinee screening at the Majestic.
- Halloween at the Farm ($10): Held at Schumacher Farm Park, farmyard activities include live music and a fortuneteller, from 5-9 p.m.
- Great Halloween Hunt (free): Take part in a scavenger hunt, then catch two magic shows from 6-9:30 p.m. at the Fitchburg Library.
- Freakfest ($10 advance): Madison’s official Halloween party takes place from 7 p.m. – 1:30 a.m. on State Street. This year’s headliners include Gin Blossoms and Lol Yachty. If you want to save a few bucks, head to the bars early before the gates on State Street are erected.
- 80s vs. 90s Halloween Costume Ball ($10): The almost-monthly 80s vs. 90s party is always popular, but the Halloween version is always really popular. Dress up as an ’80/’90s TV/movie character or music icon to participate in the costume contest. Doors open at 8, and I recommend arriving soon after.
Sunday, Oct. 27
- Boo! at the Zoo (free): The renamed event includes activities such as face painting and a costume parade from 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. at the zoo.
- Trick or Treat on Monroe Street (free): You’ll probably need to drive to hit all the shops that will hand out treats from noon-4 p.m. along a lengthy stretch of Monroe Street.
Thursday, Oct. 31
- Baby’s First Halloween (free with admission): Take the little ones for non-messy Halloween activities from 9 a.m. – noon at the Madison Children’s Museum.
- Hilldale-O-Ween (free): Trick-or-treat at participating stores and restaurants from 4-6 p.m. at Hilldale Mall.
- A Nightmare on King Street ($10 advance/$15 door): The Majestic is hosting a party featuring the band Artifakts, starting at 8:30 p.m.
Tags: downtown, Fitchburg, Halloween, Middleton, near west, Waunakee
