by Columbia, South Carolina — Halloween 2026 is bringing costume celebrations, trick-or-treating, haunted attractions and family-friendly fall activities to Columbia. With Halloween falling on Saturday, October 31, families can enjoy seasonal events throughout the final week of October, from animal-themed Halloween nights to children’s museum activities and community trunk-or-treat celebrations.
Whether you’re planning an outing with young children or looking for a spooky evening with friends, Columbia offers a variety of ways to celebrate Halloween. Several events are scheduled for October 29, 30 and 31, giving residents opportunities to enjoy the festivities before and during Halloween weekend.
1. Boo at the Zoo at Riverbanks Zoo
Boo at the Zoo is one of Columbia’s popular Halloween traditions for families. The 2026 event runs from October 16 through October 30, between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m., at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden.
Children can arrive in their Halloween costumes and enjoy trick-or-treating stations, themed entertainment and seasonal decorations throughout the zoo. Additional attractions include the Eeky Freaky DJ, Ray’s Moonlight Magic and rides on the Haunted Carousel or Riverbanks Express, with additional charges applying to certain activities.
The event is especially appealing to families who want to combine Halloween fun with a visit to one of the area’s best-known attractions. Visitors should plan ahead and check ticket availability before arriving.
2. Halloween Hoopla at EdVenture Children’s Museum
Families with younger children can consider Halloween Hoopla at EdVenture Children’s Museum on Friday, October 30, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
The after-hours celebration features hands-on crafts, creative activities, games and opportunities for children to explore the museum in their costumes. Participants can visit activity stations, collect stickers and finish their event maps at a treat station to receive Halloween candy.
Tickets are listed at $5 for museum members and $20 for non-members. Space is limited, so families should check availability before planning their visit.
The event provides an indoor alternative for children who enjoy interactive activities and Halloween-themed entertainment.
3. Halloween Celebration at Richland Library Cooper
Richland Library Cooper is hosting a Halloween celebration on Thursday, October 29, at 3:30 p.m.
The family-oriented program includes a monster dance party, Halloween crafts, face painting and trick-or-treating. Children can dress up in their favorite costumes and participate in activities designed to make the holiday fun in a welcoming community setting.
Library celebrations can be a convenient choice for parents looking for a shorter Halloween outing before the weekend’s larger events. Families should confirm registration requirements and activity availability before attending.
4. Halloween Fest at BWH Cultural Arts Center
The BWH Cultural Arts Center is scheduled to host Halloween Fest on Friday, October 30, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
The event adds another community celebration to Columbia’s Halloween calendar, offering residents an opportunity to enjoy seasonal entertainment close to home.
Halloween Events in Bisbee, AZ 2026: Haunted Houses, Trunk-or-Treat and Spooky Celebrations
Families planning to attend should check the event arrangements for details about costumes, children’s activities, admission and parking. Arriving early can help visitors make the most of the scheduled festivities.
5. Trunk-or-Treat at Woodland Park
Woodland Park is scheduled to host a Halloween Event and Trunk-or-Treat on Friday, October 30, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Trunk-or-treat celebrations give children an opportunity to collect candy from decorated vehicles in a designated setting. These events can be particularly convenient for families who prefer an organized alternative to going door to door.
The park’s event is part of Columbia’s community Halloween programming, making it an option for residents looking for an evening activity before Halloween night.
Parents should check local arrangements for parking, age recommendations and any registration requirements.
6. Halloween Fall Fest at Pinehurst Park
Pinehurst Park is another location offering a seasonal community celebration. Its Halloween Fall Fest is scheduled for Friday, October 30, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
The event provides an opportunity for families to enjoy the Halloween atmosphere and participate in local festivities without travelling far from their neighborhoods.
Visitors should confirm the specific activities planned for the evening and whether any changes have been announced before heading to the park.
7. Trick-or-Treating in Columbia Neighborhoods
Traditional door-to-door trick-or-treating remains an important part of Halloween for many Columbia families.
On Saturday, October 31, children can dress up as superheroes, witches, ghosts and other favorite characters before heading out with parents or guardians. Neighborhoods such as Wales Garden, Rosehill, Windermere and Lake Carolina are among the areas families may consider when planning their evening.
Because individual neighborhoods may have different arrangements, residents should check community announcements for local guidance on participating streets and suitable hours.
Families should carry flashlights, use sidewalks where available and make sure younger children remain accompanied by an adult.
Which Halloween event in Columbia, South Carolina, would you most like to attend this year? Share your plans and favorite Halloween traditions in the comments.
