This annual tradition has become a local must-do event as Halloween enthusiasts of all ages descend on downtown Lexington to celebrate the season. Lexington’s largest free Halloween party will begin with Halloween-inspired art and performances and culminate with the Halloween Parade and Thriller reenactment. Food, beverage and craft vendors will open from 4 – 9 p.m., serving good eats and treats.

Sunday, October 25, 2026

Halloween Variety Show
4:30 – 6 p.m.
Robert F. Stephens Courthouse Plaza

Curated by Mecca Live Studio, this stage show features a DJ spinning spooky tunes and Halloween-inspired performances by Lexington area arts groups such as Mecca, Dance Attack, the March Madness Marching Band and many more.

Halloween Parade
6:30 – 7 p.m.
Main St. (between Quality and Mill streets)

What are you going to be for Halloween? Before the Thriller reenactment, we hold a parade that celebrates all things Halloween! Join us in the parade to show off your creativity and Halloween spirit!

Parade participation

Members of the community are invited to submit parade entries (costumed characters, performances, floats, etc.), displaying their creativity and festive family fun. Costumed characters and entertainers are free to walk in the parade.

Entry fees for floats, community groups and businesses range from $25 – $150. 

Parade organizers judge the parade and award prizes for the most creative entries.

Parade Application coming soon

Disclaimer: While the parade supports all forms of free expression, it is neither a political rally nor a commercial opportunity. The focus here is on Halloween fun; all entries should exhibit creativity and ingenuity, incorporating humor and the spirit of the season. Also, no commercial/marketing-only entries will be permitted—the goal is to have everything decorated or everyone in costume.

Thriller Parade
7 – 9 p.m.
Main St. (between Quality and Mill streets)

The festivities culminate with the annual Thriller reenactment where several hundred zombies will dance, dawdle and drag themselves down Main St. to the classic Michael Jackson tune. Pedestrians can watch all along the parade route.

Other Lexington Parks & Recreation Events

Jack-o-lantern Trail 
McConnell Springs
Dates: Tuesday, Oct. 27 through Friday, Oct. 30, 2026
Trail times: 6:30 – 10 p.m. (gates close at 9:30 p.m.)
Admission: $6 per person at the gate (children 12 and under free)
Parking: Limited parking available at the park and nearby streets. Offsite parking available on Old Frankfort Pike (follow signage) with shuttle service from 6 – 8:30pm.

Enjoy an enchanting Halloween experience at McConnell Springs Park featuring hundreds of hand-carved pumpkins as they light up the night. In addition to marveling at the glow of the pumpkins, there will be campfires and s’mores, live owls from Critters in the Classroom and tasty fall food and beverages. Perfect for all ages, this night hike will be a great event for all.

Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) Festival at Robert F Stephens Courthouse Plaza
Watch for 2026 Info

Trick-or-treat
Oct. 31, 2026
6 – 8 p.m.

Check out more fall fun!