by Austin, Texas — Halloween weekend is approaching, and families across Austin are preparing for costume contests, neighborhood celebrations, haunted attractions and seasonal activities. With Halloween falling on Saturday, October 31, 2026, the Texas capital has several events planned throughout the final week of October.
For anyone searching for Halloween events in Austin, TX, in 2026, the city’s recreation centers, community organizations and seasonal attractions offer options for children, families and adults. From free Trunk-or-Treat gatherings to haunted houses, here are some events to consider when planning the final days of October.
Halloween Events in Austin on October 24
Families can start celebrating before Halloween night with community events scheduled for Saturday, October 24.
The Travis County Sheriff’s Office is hosting a free Trunk-or-Treat event from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at 5555 Airport Boulevard. Visitors can collect treats from decorated vehicles while enjoying a community Halloween celebration. Treats are available while supplies last, and public parking is listed at the former County Tax Office and County Clerk location at 5501 Airport Boulevard.
The Greater Austin YMCA is also hosting its Spooktacular celebration from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at four participating locations: North Austin Y, Northwest Family Y, Southwest Family Y and Townlake Y. Activities include candy, music, a bounce house and an obstacle course. The organization describes the events as free and open to the community.
Free Halloween Events in Austin on October 29
One of the main family events during Halloween week is Neighborhood Fright Night and Haunted House at Metz Park, scheduled for Thursday, October 29, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
The event takes place at the Rodolfo “Rudy” Mendez Recreation Center, 2407 Canterbury Street. Activities include free Trunk-or-Treat, games, vendors, door prizes and a haunted house. A costume contest is scheduled for children ages 12 and younger, with prizes across several age categories.
Families should note that while Trunk-or-Treat is free, tickets are required for the haunted house, table games and concessions. Tickets are available for cash purchase at the event, according to the city’s listing.
Austin Halloween Events on October 30
On Friday, October 30, families can attend Hallo’s Eve at Pan Am, a Halloween-themed carnival at the Oswaldo A.B. Cantu/Pan American Recreation Center, 2100 East Third Street.
The event runs from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and includes games, candy, costume contests and prizes. The indoor celebration offers another option for families who want to enjoy Halloween activities before Saturday night.
Parents should check the city’s recreation calendar for any updates before attending.
Halloween Events in Austin on October 31
Halloween Day brings more activities to Austin’s recreation centers and cultural venues.
The city’s Howl-O-Scream at Givens Recreation Center is scheduled for October 31 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at 3811 East 12th Street. Another Howl-O-Scream celebration is planned at Turner-Roberts Recreation Center, 7201 Colony Loop Drive, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Both are listed as community Halloween celebrations featuring games, prizes and spooky fun.
For daytime visitors, the George Washington Carver Museum, Cultural and Genealogy Center, at 1165 Angelina Street, lists a Pumpkin Carver event from noon to 3 p.m. The Dougherty Arts Center also lists Creepy Crawlies at DAC from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at 1110 Barton Springs Road.
These events give families options beyond traditional evening trick-or-treating.
Haunted Houses and Spooky Attractions Near Austin
Adults and older teens looking for a more frightening Halloween experience can explore seasonal haunted attractions around the Austin area.
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House of Torment, located at 2632 Ridgepoint Drive, is a seasonal haunted attraction featuring multiple horror-themed experiences. Its 2026 season includes late-October dates, but visitors should verify October 30 and 31 availability and ticket options before making plans.
Families should check age recommendations and attraction details before purchasing tickets, as intense haunted experiences may not be appropriate for younger children.
Planning Your Halloween Weekend in Austin
With events spread across several dates and neighborhoods, planning ahead can help Austin residents make the most of Halloween week. Check each organizer’s latest announcement for admission rules, parking information, registration requirements and possible schedule changes.
Families with younger children may prefer daytime activities or free community celebrations, while older visitors may enjoy haunted attractions and evening events.
Halloween is Saturday, October 31, 2026, but celebrations begin earlier in the week. Whether you are looking for free Trunk-or-Treat events, costume contests, pumpkin activities or spooky attractions, Austin offers several ways to enjoy the season.
Have you found a Halloween event in Austin that others should know about? Share the date and location to help local families plan their celebrations.
