October is one of those months filled with nostalgia. For me, many of those memories focus on Halloween.
I had so many awesome costumes throughout the years, from 50’s poodle skirt girls to Ms. Frizzle, and Trick or Treat was always a highlight of my entire year.
If you were allowed to participate as a kid, you probably have very vivid memories. You knew which streets to go on first, which people gave out toothbrushes, and you were probably always on a super tight schedule.
In 2014, the Mid Ohio Regional Planning Committee decided in 2014 that Trick or Treat for Columbus would be on October 31, unless that date is on a weekend. Then, Trick or Treat would be held the Thursday before. This Trick or Treat schedule is valid through this year, although individual communities and special events in the Central Ohio area are entitled to choose their own dates and times. Because of this, Trick Or Treat times are mostly straightforward for most Columbus area communities. Some do vary however, so we’ve listed them all below, along with a guide to other Columbus Halloween events and happenings. Happy Halloween!
Special Halloween Events
Boo at the Zoo
What: Boo at the Zoo is one of my favorite Columbus traditions. This “merry-not-scary” event will give kids the opportunity to meet their favorite costumed heroes, take a look at some of their favorite critters, and enjoy some yummy treats. Admission is included with your Zoo membership or paid admission.
When: October 11-13, 18-20 and 25-27
Where: Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
Creepside Festival
What: Creepside Festival is a free, annual event with live music, games, activities, a not-so-scary trail, trick-or-treat with local organizations, escape rooms, inflatables and candy.
When: October 19 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: Creekside Gahanna Park & Plaza, 117 Mill Street, Gahanna, Ohio 43230
Trick or Treat at the Boo-tanical Gardens
What: Celebrate your Halloween at the “boo-tanical” gardens of Franklin Park Conservatory. This two-day event features treat stations throughout the conservatory, including the new Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Children’s Garden. Price is included in your admission to Franklin Park Conservatory. Don’t forget to bring a bag or container to collect all of the spoils.
When: October 26-27, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Franklin Park Conservatory, 1777 E Broad Street
North Market Halloween Family Fun Day
What: Gather up the kiddos and head to North Market for a day of free, Halloween fun. The event will include trick-or-treating, face painting, music, games, kids’ activities, animals from The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, and more. Vendors will begin passing out candy at 11 a.m. and will keep on handing it out until it’s gone.
When: October 27 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: North Market, 59 Spruce Street
Prairie Township Community Center’s Trick or Treat Trail
What: Prairie Township invites your fam to their Trick or Treat Trail! Vendors will be handing out candy and admission is free. Costumes aren’t required but are most definitely encouraged!
When: October 25 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Where: Praire Township Community Center, 5955 West Broad Street
Kids Halloween Cookie Decorating Class
What: Who says the “treat” in Trick or Treat has to be candy? You and your kiddos can learn how to decorate some awesome cookies at Haven Collective. Each ticket includes a seat for one child, 8 prebaked cookies, all necessary decorating supplies, professional instruction by Kat Barnett from Cakes By Kat Bake Shop, and a gift box to take your delicious artwork home.
When: October 13 from 10 a.m. to Noon
Where: Haven Collective, 2025 Riverside Drive
2019 Trick or Treat times in Central Ohio
October 24
Mansfield: from 5:30-7 p.m.
October 26
Marengo: from 5:30-7 p.m.
Cardington: from 5-6 p.m.
October 27
Ashville: from 4-5:30 p.m.
October 31
Bexley: 5:30-7 p.m.
Blendon Township: 6-8 p.m.
Buckeye Lake: 5:30-7 p.m.
Canal Winchester: 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Chillicothe: 6-7:30 p.m.
Circleville: 5-7 p.m.
Columbus: 6-8 p.m.
Commercial Point: 6-8 p.m.
Delaware: 6-8 p.m.
Dublin: 6-8 p.m.
Franklin Township: 6-8 p.m.
Gahanna: 6-8 p.m.
Genoa Township: 6-8 p.m.
Grandview Heights: 6-8 p.m.
Grove City: 6-8 p.m.
Groveport: 5:30-7 p.m.
Hilliard: 6-8 p.m.
Lancaster: 6-7:30 p.m.
Marble Cliff: 6-8 p.m.
Marion: 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Marysville: 6-8 p.m.
Minerva Park: 6-8 p.m.
New Albany: 6-8 p.m.
Newark: 5:30-7 p.m.
Orange Township: 6-8 p.m.
Perry Township: 6-8 p.m.
Pickerington: 6-8 p.m.
Powell: 6-8 p.m.
Prairie Township: 6-8 p.m.
Reynoldsburg: 6-8 p.m.
Sunbury: 6-8 p.m.
Upper Arlington: 6-8 p.m.
Westerville: 6-8 p.m.
Worthington: 6-8 p.m.
