Halloween is one of my favorite holidays.
It seems absurd to think that me, the world’s biggest scaredy-cat, would love Halloween. But what can I say? I’m full of contradictions. Yes, it can be spooky, but it doesn’t have to be. The former theatre kid in me sees it as an opportunity to bust out my old costumes, gather with friends, and generally just have a good time.
If you’re looking for a place to show off your costume and grab a few cocktails, you’re in luck. Columbus has quite a few adult Halloween parties going on through the end of the month.
Ectoplasm featuring STRFKR & DJ Moxy, Halloween at Otherworld
What: Otherworld is hosting a night of thrills and chills for Halloween weekend. Ectoplasm, the official Halloween party of Otherworld, will feature STRFKR & DJ Moxy. Costumes are encouraged and guests that are 21+ can enjoy shake it out on the dancefloor with stilt and LED performances by The Amazing Giants.
When: October 29 from 10:30 p.m. to 2:30 a.m.
Where: Otherworld, 5819 Chantry Drive, Columbus, Ohio 43232
Scare On The Square
What: Ready to celebrate a spooky Samhain? The festivities will take place in the Strongwater Events space. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the horrors will continue throughout the evening. This event is for 21+ only and there will be drinks and food available to purchase.
When: October 31 from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Where: 401 W Town St, Columbus, OH 43215
The Rocky Horror Show
What: ​Short North Stage should be on everyone’s Halloween to-do list. The Rocky Horror Show tells the story of an innocent young couple stranded at the haunted castle of Frank N. Furter, a mad scientist from Transylvania. Grab a drink from the bar and get ready to have a strange and wonderful night.
When: October 13-30
Where: 1187 N High St, Columbus, Ohio 43201
Tales From The Crypt at Green Lawn Abbey
What: Fully embrace the spooky season by spending a hauntingly historical evening in Green Lawn Abbey as some of the residents come to “life”. Grim-faced Jack lanterns will be greeting you on the steps, and candles will set the mood inside.
When: October 28-29
Where: 700 Greenlawn Ave, Columbus, OH 43223
A Speakeasy Soirée
strong>What: Ready to mingle and embrace old-school roaring 20s vibes? Head to this Speakeasy Soirée at Parsons North. There will be handcrafted cocktails curated by Sean Miller of Chapman’s Eat Market, smooth jazz and small bites.
When: October 30 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Where: Parsons North Brewing Company, 685 Parsons Ave, Columbus, OH 43206
Skully’s Annual Halloween Costume Ball
What: If you’re trying to make some extra cash (or just earn back what you spent on your costume) head straight to Skully’s. Their Annual Halloween Costume Contest will feature a $300 grand prize. You can dance the night away to your favorite 80s and 90s jams. No cover before 10 p.m., then $10.
When: October 29 at 8 p.m.
Where: Skully’s Music Diner, 1151 N High St, Columbus, Ohio 43201
Highball Halloween
What: Highball Halloween is the country’s most elaborate costume party. The event perfectly combines high fashion and Halloween and, for the first time since 2019, Highball is returning to its street festival format. This year’s party will be hosted by the legendary Virginia West and NBC4’s Matt Barnes and Monica Day. There will be performances by The Deeptones, The Deal Breakers, Virginia West & The West Family, and The Amazing Giants. Of course, it wouldn’t be Highball without a little swag, so be sure to grab your free Jeni’s Ice Cream and treats from BarkBox, while supplies last.
When: October 22 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Where: Goodale and Park Street
ZOMBIEzi Bay
What: Instead of hitting the wave pool at Zoombezi Bay, you can get hit by a wave of terror at this zombie themed haunted house. Explore the two scare zones, four haunted houses, and more at ZOMBIEzi Bay.
When: Weekends throughout October
Where: Zoombezi Bay, 4850 Powell Rd, Powell, OH 43065
Haunted Fest
What: Dance the night away at this Halloween-themed EDM music festival. The lineup includes Seven Lions, NGHTMRE, LP GIOBBI, Disco Lines, and BKLAVA. General admission tickets are available for those 18+, but VIP packages are for those 21+ only.
When: October 28 at 7 p.m.
Where: Lausche Building at the Ohio Expo Center, 717 E 17th Ave, Columbus, OH 43211
