BOOtanica Fall Festival
BOOtanica transforms the gardens into a thrilling fall festival with seasonal fun and spooky surprises. Families can enjoy pumpkin carving, trick-or-treating, live music, and unique attractions like the Spooky Woodland Light Show. Don't miss the Frightful Fashion Show and the aerial acrobatics.
What to Expect
Three-weekend fall festival with over 5,000 vibrant mums.
Event Details
Duration
Fridays 5-10 PM, Saturdays 2-10 PM
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Featured Performers
- Flying Pig Improv
- DJ Carbon
- Across the Pond
- Banned Band
- Gypsy Outcast
- Flow Foundry
Organizer
Botanica, The Wichita Gardens
Food & Drink
Food trucks including Urban Skillet, Want Bierock, the Little Blue Trailer, and Bar on Demand. Beverage vendors available.
Local Insight & Ratings
Scare Factor
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and halloween enthusiasts
Vibe
Festive, spooky, and community-oriented
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate (some activities are outdoors)
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $16 Non-Member Adults, $14 Member Adults, $10 All Kids 3 to 11, 2 & Under free – Get tickets
- Parking: Free parking is available. Additional street parking is available along Amidon and Murdock. Special events may include extra parking at the River’s Edge lot west of Cowtown.
- Accessibility: Accessible parking and pathways, wheelchairs and scooters available for checkout, accessible restrooms, a sensory herb wall, and a wheelchair-accessible chariot on the carousel.
- Pets: No pets allowed (service animals permitted)
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early on Saturdays to enjoy the full range of activities, especially if you plan to participate in the 4 PM Saturday Showdowns.
- Check the specific Friday and Saturday night entertainment schedules in advance to plan your visit around performances like aerial acrobatics or live bands.
- Bring your furry friends for the Spooky Pooch Parade on October 11th, but remember that pets are generally not allowed on other days.
- Consider purchasing tickets in advance online, especially for weekend evenings, to ensure entry and avoid potential queues.
- Explore Scarecrow Row and the Haunted Shakespeare Garden before it gets too dark for the best experience.
Special Events & Promotions
- Saturday Showdowns @ 4PM
- Friday Nights: Western Dance Night, Flow Foundry, DJ Carbon
- Saturday Nights: Across the Pond, Banned Band, Gypsy Outcast
- Spooky Pooch Parade
- Frightful Fashion Show
- Minute to Win It Contest
- Scarecrow Decorating Competition
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the specific dates and times for BOOtanica?
The festival runs on October 10-11, 17-18, and 24-25. Fridays are from 5 PM to 10 PM, and Saturdays are from 2 PM to 10 PM.
What kind of food and drinks can I expect?
A variety of local food trucks will be on-site, including Urban Skillet, Want Bierock, the Little Blue Trailer, and Bar on Demand, offering a range of options.
Are there any special events or contests happening?
Yes, Saturday Showdowns at 4 PM include a Spooky Pooch Parade (Oct 11), Frightful Fashion Show (Oct 18), and a Minute to Win It Contest (Oct 25). There's also a Scarecrow Decorating Competition.
Is the event suitable for all ages?
Yes, BOOtanica is a family-friendly event with activities like trick-or-treating and face painting, though the Haunted Shakespeare Garden may be scarier for younger children.
What is the pet policy for BOOtanica?
Generally, pets are not allowed. However, service animals are permitted. Special events like the Spooky Pooch Parade are exceptions.
More Halloween Events Near Wichita
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.