Ghosts in the City (Canberra Halloween festival and parade)

Something spooky is coming to the heart of Canberra… and you're invited!

On Saturday, 31 October 2026, Canberra City will transform into a Halloween wonderland, where ghosts roam the streets, monsters come to life, and spooky surprises await around every corner!

From a haunted carousel and terrifying haunted house to a spectacular monster parade, trick-or-treating and mysterious encounters, GHOSTS IN THE CITY is bringing Halloween to life in the heart of Civic!

Whether you're a fearless thrill-seeker, a little monster looking for treats, or simply ready for a night of Halloween fun, there's something for everyone.

Put on your scariest costume, gather your friends and family, and join us for a Halloween celebration you won't forget!

Canberra's iconic carousel is getting a spooky makeover!

Experience this beloved landmark like never before as it transforms into a mysterious Halloween attraction, surrounded by eerie decorations, haunting sounds and ghostly surprises.

🕢 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM

Something is lurking in the darkness…

Step inside our haunted experience, where mysterious shadows, unsettling sounds and unexpected encounters await.

Will you make it out without screaming?

Calling all ghosts, zombies, witches, vampires and creatures of the night!

This Halloween, the monsters are taking over Civic!

Dress up in your most terrifying, hilarious or creative costume and join our Monster Parade through the heart of Canberra City.

Everyone is welcome to join the parade!

🕣 8:30 PM – Monster Parade

Think you've got what it takes to move like a real zombie?

Join our Zombie Shuffle, where the undead come together for a hilariously spooky challenge!

🕣 9:00 PM – Zombie Shuffle

Think you've got the scariest, funniest or most creative Halloween costume?

Show off your incredible look and compete for the title of Best-Dressed Monster of the Night!

Whether you're a terrifying ghost, a wicked witch, a creepy zombie or something completely unexpected, it's your time to shine!

Dress to impress. Scare to win. Let the best monster take the crown! 👑

🕣 9:20 PM – Best Costume Contest 🏆

Halloween wouldn't be complete without candy!

Bring your little monsters along for trick-or-treating, sweet surprises and family-friendly Halloween fun.

🕓 From 4:00 PM

Every monster needs a makeover!

Get into the Halloween spirit with spooky makeup, creepy transformations and fun activities to help you become one of the creatures of the night.

You never know what might be waiting around the next corner…

Encounter mysterious Halloween characters, discover spooky installations, take unforgettable photos and immerse yourself in a city full of Halloween surprises!

📅 Date: Saturday, 31 October 2026

🕓 Time: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM

📍 Location: Petrie Plaza & City Walk, Canberra City

🎟️ Admission: FREE ENTRY!

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Everyone is welcome!

• 4:00 PM – Trick-or-Treat begins
• 7:30 PM – Ghost Carousel opens
• 8:30 PM – Monster Parade
• 8:45 PM – Zombie Shuffle
• 9:30 PM – Ghost Carousel closes
• 10:00 PM – Event concludes

Come as a ghost, a witch, a zombie, a vampire, or your favourite Halloween character. The choice is yours!

Bring your friends, gather your family, and get ready to make some unforgettable Halloween memories in the heart of Canberra.

🎟️ FREE ENTRY – REGISTER NOW AND JOIN THE HAUNTING!

Don't miss Canberra's spookiest night of the year!

⚠️ Please note: Some attractions may feature scary characters, dark environments, loud sounds or sudden surprises. Parental guidance is recommended for younger children.

Event venue & nearby stays

Petrie Plaza & City Walk, merry-go-round, Canberra, Australia

Concerts, fests, parties, meetups — all the happenings, one place.

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