Illustration of an orange tractor pulling a wooden hay wagon with costumed characters past pumpkins, trees and a red barn (Downtown Madison Family Halloween)

Downtown Madison Family Halloween

2026 dates not announced yet. Details are from 2025.

Downtown Madison Family Halloween provides trick-or-treating at participating businesses, hayrides around the Capitol Square, and activities including crafts, storytelling, and magic shows. The event concludes with a family movie night.

Map It Details Official site

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Plan Your Visit

Last year

Tickets

FREE

Ages

All ages

Neighborhood

Downtown

Featured Performers

  • Wendy Markus (electric violin)

Food & Drink

Candy, treats, and ice cream available at various stops. Movie night concessions may be available.

Parking

Information available on parking downtown.

Going?

Location

State Street & Capitol Square · Madison, WI Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Scare Factor

👻 👻 👻 👻 👻 (1/5)

Family Friendly

👶 👶 👶 👶 👶 (5/5)

Best For

Families with young children

Vibe

Festive and community-oriented

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

Moderate (some activities may move indoors)

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive early to maximize your trick-or-treating opportunities, as popular stops may run out of candy.
  • Check the map of participating locations beforehand to plan your route and hit your favorite spots.
  • Dress in layers as the weather in late October can be unpredictable; bring a jacket for the evening movie.
  • Bring cash for the hayrides, as they have a small per-person fee.
  • Consider using public transportation or walking if you live nearby, as parking can be limited in the downtown area.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Trick-or-treat at participating businesses
  • Hay rides around Capitol Square
  • Crafts, art projects, stories, and songs
  • Family movie night
  • Costume contest for adults 55+ at Senior Center

Links & Contact

Run by Madison's Central Business Improvement District (BID)

Halloween Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What activities are available for children?

Children can enjoy trick-or-treating at numerous businesses, hayrides, craft stations, storytelling, magic shows, and a scavenger hunt at the Madison Children's Museum.

Is there a cost to attend the event?

The Downtown Madison Family Halloween event itself is free to attend. There is a small fee for the hayrides ($3.00 per person).

What should I do if there is severe weather?

Some outdoor activities, like the treat station at the Children's Museum, will move indoors in case of severe weather. Check event updates for any changes.

Where can I find a list of trick-or-treat participating businesses?

A map and list of participating businesses are available online and often provided at the event. The Google My Maps link provides a detailed overview.

What time does the movie start?

The movie night follows the trick-or-treating, typically starting after 6:00 PM. Check the event schedule for the exact movie start time.

Browse Halloween in Madison

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. Halloween Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

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