by Burlington, Vermont — Halloween week is bringing costume parades, haunted walking tours, family activities and late-night celebrations to Burlington as residents prepare for Saturday, October 31, 2026. From a community-wide Halloween ride to spooky science activities and historic ghost tours, the city has options for families, visitors and adults looking for something different to do during the final days of October.
Several events are scheduled for October 24–31, giving visitors opportunities to celebrate before Halloween night itself. Anyone planning to attend should check the event organizer’s latest information for tickets, age restrictions and schedule changes.
Halloween Events in Burlington This Weekend
One of the weekend’s family-friendly highlights is the Burlington Halloween Roll & Stroll, scheduled for Sunday, October 25. Participants gather at City Hall Park at 1:30 p.m., with the group setting off at 2 p.m. The event brings costumed residents together for a community ride, walk and roll through Burlington, finishing at Old Spokes Home for photos, music, games and other activities. Participation is free, and people can join on bicycles, trikes, strollers or on foot.
Another option on Saturday, October 24, is Spooky Science at ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain. The waterfront science museum is including the event in its Halloween-weekend calendar, offering a seasonal option for families interested in hands-on science and educational activities. Visitors should check ECHO’s official schedule for admission details and the specific program hours.
Queen City Ghostwalk: Haunted Tours Through October 31
Visitors looking for a scarier experience can book the Queen City Ghostwalk: Darkness Falls Tour. The historic walking tour is scheduled on selected evenings from October 23 through October 31, with listed starts at 7 p.m. The route begins near the Democracy Sculpture at 199 Main Street and explores Burlington’s darker history, local legends and reportedly haunted locations.
The tour is generally suited to visitors aged 12 and older, with some sensitive historical subject matter. Parents should review the tour description before booking for younger participants.
Special dates include Witch Hat Night on October 23 and Glow Stick Night on October 30. Halloween-night tours are also listed for October 31, although ticket availability should be checked directly before making plans.
Halloween Events on October 30
Friday, October 30, offers several ways to start Halloween weekend.
At the Gordon H. Paquette Ice Arena, the city’s calendar lists Itty Bitty Spooky Skate from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m., followed by Spooky Skate from 7:45 p.m. to 10 p.m. These skating sessions give families and older participants a seasonal activity ahead of Halloween night. Check the city’s recreation listings for admission, skate rental and age-related details.
Adults looking for nightlife can also consider the 2000s-themed Halloween party listed at Higher Ground in nearby South Burlington. The event is advertised for October 30 and is intended for ages 18 and older. Confirm the venue’s current ticket and entry requirements before attending.
Halloween Day in Burlington on October 31
Halloween falls on Saturday this year, and several events are scheduled throughout the day.
The Howl’ween Dog Costume Contest takes place at Church Street Marketplace on October 31. Registration begins at 11 a.m., and the contest starts at noon on the Leahy Block outside Homeport. Categories include Silliest, Most Original, Best Pup and Owner, and Best in Show. Visitors can watch the contest even if they do not bring a dog.
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For music lovers, the Vermont Symphony Orchestra is scheduled to present The Sorcerer’s Apprentice and other Halloween-themed selections at the Flynn on October 31 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. The program is advertised as an all-ages matinee, offering a cultural alternative to costume parties and haunted attractions.
Those planning an evening out can also look at The Web, a ticketed Halloween party at Burlington Beer Company, 180 Flynn Avenue. The event is scheduled for 7 p.m. on October 31 through 2 a.m. on November 1. Organizers describe live music, DJs, performances, immersive spaces, a costume contest and a food buffet. The event is for ages 21 and older, requires costumes and lists tickets at $55 plus tax.
Planning Your Halloween Weekend in Burlington
Burlington offers a mix of free community activities, ticketed entertainment and seasonal attractions during the final week of October. Families may prefer the Roll & Stroll, Spooky Science or the dog costume contest, while visitors seeking a spooky evening can consider the Queen City Ghostwalk.
Before heading out, confirm schedules, ticket availability, age restrictions and parking arrangements with the organizer. Events may sell out or change their details as Halloween approaches.
Which Burlington Halloween event are you planning to attend this year? Share your favorite local activities and help other residents find something fun to do this Halloween.
