For years, we’ve heard about the Historic Irvington Halloween Festival—an Indianapolis tradition like no other. Yet, we had never had the chance to attend. That changes this year, and we couldn’t be more excited! In 2025, we’ll finally experience this week-long celebration that has been bringing thrills, chills, and community fun to Indy for nearly a century.
The festival first came to life in 1927, when costumed children and performers paraded down Washington Street, creating an unforgettable scene in the heart of Irvington. Revived in 1946, and carried on with pride ever since, the Historic Irvington Halloween Festival has grown into one of the nation’s oldest and largest Halloween celebrations. Each year, it transforms the neighborhood into a lively hub of history, creativity, and spooky charm.
The 79th Historic Irvington Halloween Festival takes place from October 18 to October 25, 2025, filling the community with Halloween spirit all week long. Highlights include:
The Halloween Ball – A lively kickoff party with music, dancing, and costumes.
The Vampire Run – A family-friendly 5K run and 1-mile walk that gets everyone moving in their spookiest outfits.
Cultural & Community Events – From haunted puppet shows and ghost tours to movie nights and storytelling, there’s something for every age.
The Street Fair & Parade – On Saturday, October 25, East Washington Street becomes the epicenter of the festival. Expect food trucks, artisan vendors, live music, a beer garden, pumpkin carving, and costume contests—even for pets!
This year is extra special for us—it will be our first time attending the Historic Irvington Halloween Festival. We’ve admired it from a distance, hearing stories about the costumes, the creativity, and the energy that fills the streets of Irvington every October. Now, we’ll finally be there to experience it firsthand. From the Vampire Run to the legendary street fair, we can’t wait to take in every moment of Indy’s most iconic Halloween tradition.
If you’re looking for the ultimate fall experience in Indianapolis, the Historic Irvington Halloween Festival should be at the very top of your list. We’ll see you there!
Some images courtesy of the business’s official website and social media.
Marketing
