Whether you live for showing off your creativity with a cool costume, get hyped for all things horror or you’re just in it for the candy, Halloween is a beloved holiday for wicked creatures of all ages. Celebrations are taking place throughout the community, so we’ve rounded up some options ranging from family-friendly festivities to the downright hair-raising, plus everything in between.
Boo at the Zoo
Gather your tiniest critters for tricks and treats and other family-friendly activities at the Boo at the Zoo. Get your costumes ready and be prepared to collect all the candy October 20-30 at Riverbanks Zoo & Garden.
Deceased Farm
Discover what goes bump in the night as you work your way through the region’s most immersive Halloween horror experience, Deceased Farm. Not for the faint of heart, you’ll face your greatest fears through a 3-D nightmare, a monster-laden farm and 2 acres of terrifying cornfields where you never know what may be waiting for you around each corner.
Nightmare on BullStreet
Spooky meets yummy at Publico at BullStreet. The new spot to the district is decked out in Halloween décor and their holiday inspired drink and food menu is frightfully delicious. Order up some of their specialty cocktails served in spooky tiki glasses with a side of Bat Wings or Graveyard Brulee.
A Free Times Halloween
Kick off spooky season with the Free Times fifth annual A Free Times Halloween on October 21. A steep costume contest awaits you, along with an open bar, small bites, and a DJ to dance the night away too.
Capital City Club
The adults can get spooky at the Capital City Club with live music, drinks and bites, and even a haunted house at their Monster Ball on October 28th. For the kiddos, they’ll be hosting a family-friendly brunch on the 30th with a buffet, kid’s crafts, and a costume contest.
Koger Center for the Arts
One of the most iconic Halloween figures, Dracula, is coming to the Koger Center. Watch the Columbia City Ballet perform Dracula: Ballet with a Bite October 28th and 29th. On the 30th, the South Carolina Philharmonic will be transforming Koger into Hogwarts with a program of favorites from Jaws, Psycho, Beetlejuice, and works from the Harry Potter films at Halloween at Hogwarts.
South Carolina State Museum
Things are getting spooky at the South Carolina State Museum with Dark History Tours throughout October that explore tales of South Carolina, and a spook-tastic laser light show on the 28th with music from the popular Netflix series Stranger Things.
The Rocky Horror Show
This cult favorite is returning to Trustus Theater in the Vista just in time for Halloween. Catch a showing from now until October 30th.
Smoked Masquerade
For an elevated Halloween experience, head down to Main Street on the 28th for Smoked Masquerade. Come dressed in your most spooky or creative costume to potentially win a prize and enjoy an evening of dancing the night away with small bites and punch bowls.
River Rat Halloween Party
For the beer lovers and Jack Sparrow fans, you won’t want to miss River Rat Brewing’s Pirates of the Caribbean themed Halloween party. Family-friendly with of course a costume contest, join the fun on October 28th.