by Ithaca, New York — Halloween week is bringing family activities, theatrical performances, downtown trick-or-treating and costume celebrations to Ithaca as residents prepare for October 31. With Halloween falling on a Saturday in 2026, families and visitors have several opportunities to enjoy seasonal events before the holiday arrives.
Among the upcoming highlights are the Great Pumpkin Pageant at Hangar Theatre, Halloween in Downtown Ithaca and a late-night Halloween dance party at Liquid State Brewing. These events offer options for families with children, theater fans and adults planning a Halloween night out.
Halloween Events in Ithaca This Week
The Great Pumpkin Pageant — October 29–30
The Great Pumpkin Pageant is scheduled for Thursday, October 29, and Friday, October 30, at Hangar Theatre, located at 801 Taughannock Boulevard in Ithaca.
The performances run from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. and feature an original Halloween story presented by Lilypad Puppet Theatre. The production follows Jack, who grows a field of pumpkins but would rather sing than work, until the Devil arrives and attempts to claim his soul.
The show combines puppetry, life-sized masked characters, original songs and a spooky finale. Tickets are listed at $20 for adults and $10 for students, while children aged three and younger can attend for free.
Halloween in Downtown Ithaca — October 30
Families looking for a free Halloween activity can visit Halloween in Downtown Ithaca on Friday, October 30.
The event is scheduled for 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. and features trick-or-treating at participating businesses throughout downtown and the Ithaca Commons. Children can wear costumes, bring candy bags and visit participating storefronts for treats and seasonal activities.
The GIAC parade route is scheduled to leave at 3:30 p.m., travelling from GIAC toward the Commons with stops along the route. Families should check the official event map for participating candy stops and any schedule updates.
Because the event takes place in the downtown area, visitors should allow extra time for walking and use marked pedestrian crossings.
Halloween Night Party in Ithaca on October 31
Adults looking for Halloween nightlife can consider the 5th Annual Halloween Dance Party at Liquid State Brewing, located at 620 West Green Street.
The event is scheduled for Saturday, October 31, from 9 p.m. until 1 a.m. on November 1. DJs Tuggle and Logs are scheduled to provide music, with costumes, a photo booth and additional themed surprises planned.
The event is for guests aged 21 and older, and advance tickets are listed at $6 before applicable taxes and fees. Visitors should confirm ticket availability and entry requirements before attending.
More Halloween Activities for Families
Families who want additional activities can explore Ithaca’s seasonal attractions and community programs. The Sciencenter, at 601 First Street, hosted its free Spooky Science program on October 25, featuring hands-on experiments and Halloween activities. That event has already passed, so families should check the museum’s current calendar for other available programs.
Visitors can also check local event calendars for additional costume celebrations, Halloween-themed performances and activities around the Finger Lakes region.
Planning Your Halloween Weekend in Ithaca
Ithaca offers several ways to celebrate Halloween in the final days of October, from a theatrical pumpkin story to downtown candy stops and an adults-only dance party.
Before heading out, confirm event schedules, ticket availability and any registration requirements. Families attending downtown trick-or-treating should check the official map, while visitors planning an evening event should review age restrictions and transport arrangements.
Which Halloween event are you planning to attend in Ithaca this year? Share your favorite local activities and help other residents plan their Halloween weekend.
