The Historic Irvington Halloween Festival is held in late October in Indianapolis, Indiana. The first festival was held in one of Indianapolis' oldest areas on the night of October 31, 1927. Since then, it has become one of the most popular annual events in the city. It brings together communities and celebrates the heritage of the town, while welcoming the spooky season of Halloween.
Masquerade Ball (October 19, 2024)
Experience enchantment and the secrets of the ballroom by dancing the night away at the Historic Irvington Halloween Masquerade Ball. The event has been a beloved Halloween tradition for a number of years and continues to be one of the most popular festival events. It usually marks the beginning of the festivities, with people from all over Indiana putting on their masquerade masks and elegant outfits. The ball is usually held at 8 pm at Irvington Lodge and features exquisite culinary masterpieces, delicious beverages and hours of dancing to selected music playlist. The event requires a ticket and is only for individuals over 21 years old.
Festival Street Fair (October 26, 2024)
The main highlight of The Historic Irvington Halloween Festival is the street fair, which occurs on the Saturday before Halloween. Taking place at Irvington's East Washington Street, between Ritter Avenue and Arlington Avenue, the fair serves as a culmination of the week of spooky festivities. Local businesses and vendors set up their stalls all along the street, offering various Halloween-themed goods and treats. The fair also features several costume contests, pumpkin carving contests, a cackling competition, live music and child-friendly activities.
Vampire Run & Little Bat Dash (October 26, 2024)
Some locals and guests of the city like to celebrate Halloween by taking part in the marathon or a walk, bidding farewell to the last warm temperatures of fall. There are several options to this spooky race, including 5K Run or Walk, 1-Mile Run or Walk, and Little Bat Dash Kids' Run or Walk. Vampire Run usually takes place at 9:30 am, while Little Bat Dash begins at 11:30 am. Both the 5K Run and 1-Mile Run begin at Ritter Avenue, while Little Bat Dash at Pennsy Trail. Advance participation fee for 5K Run is $36, which later increases to $40. One-mile run costs $27, which increases to $30. Individuals up to 18 years old can participate in the 1-Mile Run for $22. Little Bat Dash is free.
Halloween Parade (October 26, 2024)
A costumed parade for children and adults marches down Washington Street with accompaniment by the Indianapolis Military Band. The lineup usually takes place at Irvington United Methodist Church at 4 pm, with the procession setting off at 4:30 pm. Spectators cheer on all the zombies, witches, cartoon characters, and mythical creatures who walk in the parade.
Other Fest Events & Activities
With lots of live music, contests, Halloween-themed activities like ghost tours, and a "haunted" puppet show, the Historic Irvington Halloween Festival is a favorite event for attendees of all ages. Tens of thousands of people are drawn by various eerie activities like Seance Readings, Spooky Stories, a Slightly Haunted Puppet Show, a Zombie Bike Ride, a Family Spooky Movie Night, an Art Auction, Spooky Organ Concert, Fright-Seeing, and more.
Locations
Many festival activities take place at Irvington's historic venues, such as The Irvington Theatre, built in 1913, hosting live music shows, films, and art exhibitions. Irving Circle Park in the center of Irving is another iconic location for the festival. Some events, such as the Masquerade Ball, are also held at Irvington Lodge.
