Trick or treating, face painting, temporary and permanent tattoos—there are many ways to celebrate Halloween this year. Locals can have a drink at Fear Fair in the transformed Sign Bar, enter the bouldering competition at Crux or trick or treat at one of the Greater Austin YMCA locations.
There is something for everyone this year, from family-friendly to adults-only fun. This list is not comprehensive and all events are subject to change.
Fear Fair at Sign Bar
Fear Fair at Sign Bar is returning for the second year, bringing a maze, live actors, photo opportunities and themed cocktails. Visitors can also book a daytime matinee walkthrough without live actors. Sign Bar will host a Witchy Vendor Market on Oct. 15 from 7-10 p.m.
Sept. 16-Nov. 1, times vary
$6.50 (daytime matinee), $14.50 (live actor maze)
9909 FM 969, Bldg. 3, Austin
www.signbartexas.com
Crank’N’Stein
Crux Climbing Center is hosting its 10th annual Halloween bouldering competition this weekend. The “Temple of Doom” themed event will feature black-light bouldering for climbers of all skill levels. The event will also feature a costume contest, stein-hoisting competition, vendor market, raffle dance party and free tattoos by JD Tattoo.
The Greater Austin YMCA Spooktacular
Four local YMCA locations will host a Halloween-themed event with obstacle courses, tie-dye stations, bounce houses, music, snacks and candy. Families can register for the event online.
Oct. 24, 5-7 p.m.
Free (admission), $35 (member competition registration), $50 (non-member competition registration)
1000 W. Rundberg Lane, Austin; 5807 McNeil Drive, Austin; 6219 Oakclaire Drive, Austin; 1100 W. Cesar Chavez St., Austin
www.austinymca.org/2026-free-halloween-events-at-the-y
Houdini Speaks to the Living
Set in 1924, the Austin-native performance is returning to the city on the 100th anniversary of Harry Houdini’s death. Attendees can expect the show to include history and live illusions.
Oct. 28-31
$25 (student, senior or educator tickets), $35 (general admission), $45 (VIP admission)
2120 N. Mays St., Ste. 290, Round Rock
https://hiddenroomtheatre.com
Trick or Treat at the Y
Several YMCA locations in Austin and beyond will host trick or treating events. Activities vary by location. All events will have treats available for children with food allergies. Costumes are encouraged.
Panic at the Paramount
Paramount Theatre will round out its 5th annual Panic at the Paramount series with a screening of “SCREAM.” After the movie, fans can stick around for an interview and Q&A with actor David Arquette, who plays Dewey Riley.
Kids Halloween Costume Contest at Pinballz Lake Creek
Children and families are encouraged to show off their costumes at Pinballz for the kid-friendly costume contest. Participants can sign up in person on the day of the event. Winners will receive a trophy and a Pinballz game card.
Halloween Carnival
Meanwhile Brewing Co. will host a carnival with a costume contest, face painting, temporary tattoos and more. The event will also feature a meet and greet with Aurora and Maleficent.
Art of Mixology: Potions Class
Bartenders at the Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa will hold a guided cocktail making class. Guests will craft two cocktails: the Butterbeer Old Fashioned and the Feliz Felicis Fizz. Attendees will also learn tricks and techniques for their own Halloween celebrations. Costumes are encouraged and light bites will be included.
Spookydale & ST. Hellmo
St. Elmo Brewing Company will host back-to-back Halloween events this month. Spookydale includes a kid’s haunted house with kid-friendly candy and sips. The event will also have crafts, face painting and a children’s costume contest. St. Hellmo will feature the Austin Witches Market, flash tattoos, a live DJ set, drinks and an adult costume contest.
