COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — As the autumn leaves fall and Halloween approaches, the Columbus area is bustling with events both spooky and spirited for the weekend of Friday, Oct. 31 through Sunday, Nov. 2.
Friday, Oct. 31
On Halloween night itself, the city plays host to a major electronic-music event: the “Haunted Fest Columbus” at KEMBA Live! (405 Neil Ave.), featuring artists such as Tape B, Dr. Fresch and others. Doors open at 5 p.m. for an all-ages event designed for high-energy festive atmosphere.
Meanwhile for those looking for nightlife, the “Columbus Official Halloween Bar Crawl” kicks off at 5 p.m. at Bernards Tavern (630 N. High St.), inviting adults in costume for a two-day bar-crawl experience across various Central Ohio venues.
Saturday, Nov. 1
On Saturday evening, downtown Columbus invites those who prefer a more hauntingly scenic experience to join the “Creepy Columbus Downtown Walking Tour” beginning at 8 p.m. The guided stroll explores spooky historic corners of downtown Columbus.
Additionally, throughout the weekend, many neighborhoods across Central Ohio are adhering to the recommended region-wide trick-or-treat schedule: since Oct. 31 falls on a Friday, the region’s recommended trick-or-treat date is Thursday, Oct. 30.
Sunday, Nov. 2
Sunday offers more casual, family-friendly rhythms. While no major marquee events are listed in the central downtown calendar for Nov. 2 beyond those tied to the Halloween weekend, the atmosphere remains lively with fall festivals, pumpkin-patch outings and typical autumn fare. One local guide notes more than 100 fall and Halloween-themed activities across the region, including pumpkin patches, food festivals and trick-or-treat opportunities.
Why it matters
This weekend is a micro-cosm of Columbus’s broader seasonal identity: versatile enough to host high-tempo nightlife, family-friendly Halloween observances and outdoor autumn traditions in the same 72-hour span. The events also show how local organizers are aligning with regional safety guidelines (for example, the recommended trick-or-treat date) and catering to varied age groups.
Tips for attendees
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For the Haunted Fest, arrive early, plan for parking downtown and note that contactless payment is encouraged for faster entry.
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Costumes: Whether you’re in a bar crawl or walking tour, festive attire is encouraged—but keep in mind any venue rules (e.g., masks, prop weapons).
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For families: Verify your neighborhood’s official trick-or-treat schedule, as local jurisdictions may vary even if there’s a regional recommendation.
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Weather: With October ending, bring layers for evening outings—downtown can be chilly after dark.
What to watch
Next week may bring a shift in focus from Halloween to community-gathering events, making this weekend the concentrated peak of fall/festive activity in the region before the pace transitions to holiday season.