Halloween Events in Cincinnati (2026 Guide)

Last Updated: February 2026

Looking for the best Halloween events in Cincinnati? The Queen City comes alive every fall with haunted attractions, pumpkin festivals, costume parties, family-friendly activities, and some of the biggest Halloween experiences in the Midwest.

Whether you’re planning a night of scares, a fall date night, or a full weekend of seasonal fun, here are the top Halloween events in Cincinnati for 2026.

Haunted Attractions & Scream Parks

For many visitors, Halloween in Cincinnati means experiencing one of the region’s professional haunted attractions.

Top haunted experiences include:

The Dent Schoolhouse – Celebrating its 30th season in 2026, this nationally recognized attraction features massive sets, cinematic effects, and one of the most immersive haunted experiences in the Midwest.
Land of Illusion Haunted Scream Park – Multiple haunted attractions plus a full midway and entertainment area.
Mt. Healthy Haunted Hall – A local favorite offering classic scares at a budget-friendly price.

Pro Tip: October weekends sell out quickly — purchase tickets in advance whenever possible.

Jack O’Lantern & Pumpkin Events

For a less intense but equally festive experience, Cincinnati offers several pumpkin and light-based events perfect for families, couples, and fall outings.

Popular options may include:

Jack O’Lantern Glow-style walking trails
Pumpkin Nights and illuminated displays
Zoo and park Halloween light events
Pumpkin patches with evening activities

These events typically run from late September through October and are great for all ages.

Halloween Festivals & Family Events

Throughout October, communities across the Cincinnati area host festivals, trunk-or-treat events, and fall celebrations.

Look for:

Community Halloween festivals
Costume parades and contests
Trunk-or-treat events
Harvest festivals with hayrides and games

These events are especially popular with families and younger children.

Adult Halloween Parties & Nightlife

For adults looking to celebrate after dark, Cincinnati’s nightlife scene hosts a wide range of Halloween-themed events.

Popular options include:

Halloween bar crawls in Downtown and Over-the-Rhine
Costume parties at local clubs and venues
Themed DJ nights and live music events
Special Halloween brewery events

Many of these events take place the two weekends leading up to Halloween.

Horror & Halloween Conventions

Cincinnati and the surrounding region also host several horror and paranormal conventions throughout the year.

Events may include:

Horror movie conventions
Paranormal and ghost-hunting expos
Oddities and curiosities shows
Vendor markets featuring horror art and collectibles

These conventions attract fans from across the Midwest and are a great addition to any Halloween season itinerary.

When Halloween Events Peak

Most major Halloween events in Cincinnati run:

Late September through October
Thursdays through Sundays
With peak crowds the final two weekends before Halloween

For shorter lines and better availability, consider visiting earlier in the season or on weeknights.

Make the Most of Halloween in Cincinnati

With everything from family festivals to nationally recognized haunted attractions, Cincinnati offers one of the strongest Halloween event lineups in the region.

If you’re looking for a true centerpiece experience this season, visiting The Dent Schoolhouse — celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2026 — is one of the best ways to experience the intensity, atmosphere, and excitement that make Cincinnati a top Halloween destination.