by Dayton, Ohio — Halloween week has arrived in Dayton, and families have several opportunities to enjoy pumpkin displays, costume activities, trick-or-treat events and spooky entertainment before October 31. With Halloween falling on Saturday this year, the final week of October includes activities for children, families and adults looking for seasonal fun.
From the Stoddard Avenue Pumpkin Glow to free Halloween activities at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, Dayton’s upcoming calendar offers a variety of ways to celebrate. Here are some events to consider between October 26 and Halloween night.
Stoddard Avenue Pumpkin Glow on October 26–27
One of Dayton’s best-known Halloween traditions returns to the Grafton Hill neighborhood on Monday, October 26, and Tuesday, October 27, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
The Stoddard Avenue Pumpkin Glow features nearly 1,000 carved jack-o’-lanterns displayed throughout the neighborhood. The community event is free to attend and offers families an opportunity to see elaborate pumpkin designs after dark.
Visitors should plan for crowds and allow extra time to find parking. Checking local event updates before leaving home is also advisable.
Trick-or-Treat at Boonshoft Museum of Discovery
The Boonshoft Museum of Discovery is hosting Halloween activities throughout the week, October 26–31.
The museum’s schedule includes trick-or-treating throughout the building from October 26 through October 31, with regular museum admission required. Additional programming includes a spooky planetarium show from October 28–31, a costume-themed toddler hike on October 26 and pumpkin dissection activities on October 31.
Families should check the museum’s current calendar for specific session times, ticket availability and admission information before visiting.
Trunk-or-Treat at Austin Landing on October 28
Families looking for another Halloween activity can consider Trunk-or-Treat at Austin Landing, scheduled for Wednesday, October 28, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
The event is advertised as a family-friendly celebration featuring decorated Jeeps, inflatables, candy, contests and other seasonal entertainment. Children can dress in costumes and enjoy an organized alternative to traditional door-to-door trick-or-treating.
Visitors should check the event organizer’s latest announcement for any changes to the schedule or participation details.
Free Troops & Treats at the Air Force Museum
The National Museum of the U.S. Air Force will host Troops & Treats on Saturday, October 31, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The free event invites children and families to wear costumes, collect treats and participate in Halloween activities inside the museum. It provides an indoor option for families who want to celebrate earlier in the day before neighborhood trick-or-treating begins.
Visitors should confirm the latest museum event details before travelling.
Dayton Trick-or-Treat Times for October 31
The City of Dayton’s 2026 Beggars’ Night, also known as trick-or-treating, is scheduled for Saturday, October 31, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Families planning to go door to door should follow these official local hours rather than relying on schedules from neighboring communities, which may differ.
Parents can help children stay safe by accompanying younger trick-or-treaters, choosing visible costumes, carrying flashlights after dark and checking treats before children eat them.
Plan Your Halloween Week in Dayton
Dayton offers several options during the final days of October, including the free Pumpkin Glow on October 26–27, museum activities throughout Halloween week and the October 31 Troops & Treats celebration.
Families should verify admission requirements and event schedules before setting out, particularly for activities with timed sessions or limited ticket availability.
Which Halloween event are you planning to visit in Dayton this year? Share your favorite local celebrations or neighborhood trick-or-treat plans to help other families prepare for Halloween.
