Illustration of a fall festival scene (Scare on the Square)
Family-Friendly Fall Activities

Scare on the Square

Get ready for Scare on the Square, a beloved Halloween tradition returning to Fountain Square! This FREE event offers trick-or-treating for children, with local businesses handing out candy. Enjoy family-friendly tunes from a DJ, a thrilling "Thriller" dance performance, and a community-wide dance at the event's conclusion. The fun continues with a Halloween bar crawl featuring special themed cocktails.

More in Bowling Green:

What to Expect

Community "Thriller" dance performance and bar crawl

Event Details

Duration

2 hours

Ages

All ages

Neighborhood

Downtown

Timed Entry

No

Featured Performers

  • DJ
  • WKU Theatre & Dance department

Organizer

Downtown BGKY

Food & Drink

Food trucks available, Full bar and restaurant

Local Insight & Ratings

Scare Factor

👻 👻 👻 👻 👻 (2/5)

Family Friendly

👶 👶 👶 👶 👶 (5/5)

Best For

Families and kids

Vibe

Festive and spooky

Energy Level

Moderate

Budget

FREE

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

Moderate

Location

Fountain Square Park
444 East Main
Bowling Green, KY
42101

Know Before You Go

  • Tickets: FREE
  • Pets: No pets allowed

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive early to secure a good spot for the "Thriller" dance performance and the costume contest.
  • Bring a reusable bag for collecting candy during the trick-or-treating portion of the event.
  • Check the weather forecast and dress in layers, as the event takes place outdoors.
  • Consider using public transportation or ride-sharing services to avoid parking challenges downtown.
  • Stay for the after-party bar crawl to enjoy themed cocktails and continue the Halloween festivities.

Special Events & Promotions

  • FREE trick or treating for kids
  • DJ with live family-friendly tunes
  • Costume contest
  • Michael Jackson "Thriller" dance performance
  • Halloween bar crawl with themed cocktails

Quick Actions

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does Scare on the Square start?

The event begins at 2:00 PM and runs until 4:00 PM.

Is there an age limit for the trick-or-treating?

No, the trick-or-treating is a free event for kids of all ages.

What is the "Thriller" dance?

It's a community performance of the Michael Jackson "Thriller" dance, led by local instructors and open for all to join at the end of the event.

Are there any activities for adults?

Yes, there is a Halloween bar crawl featuring themed cocktails at Fountain Row bars and restaurants after the main event.

Is there a costume contest?

Yes, there will be a costume contest held at 3:30 PM.

Tags

family friendlytrick or treathalloween partycostume contestcommunity eventbar crawlhalloween festival

More Halloween Events Near Bowling Green

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Sep 3, 2026
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Halloween Events Near Me editorial team