Now in its 18th year, HighBall Halloween takes over for what’s widely considered the most elaborate costume party in the country! Hosted by the Short North Alliance, this event is all about creativity, performance and over-the-top spookiness. Costumes are absolutely encouraged, so come dressed to impress!
Witches, warlocks, ghouls and goblins are all invited to experience what is coined as "the nation's most elaborate costume party!"
Highball Halloween. Source: Short North Alliance.
What to Expect at HighBall Halloween 2025
Come for the costumes, stay for the music (and spook-tacular fun!) First on the list is the festival’s Public Costume Contest, which covers four categories. Do you think you have what it takes to be crowned a winner? Sign up and show everyone your scariest, silliest or most creative get-up! Or, sit back and enjoy the Costume Couture Fashion Show, where six teams of talented designers will present their most fabulous creations.
Of course, no Halloween event is complete without music, and HighBall Halloween delivers! Be prepared to dance the night away to a full lineup of live bands and performers. Between sets, stroll the HighBall Halloween Potion Patios along High Street and enjoy ghoulishly-themed cocktails from some of Columbus’s most well-known spots like Agave & Rye, Barley’s, Denmark, Mikey’s Late Night Slice and Novak’s
You can also shop at the HighBall Halloween Bazaar, which will feature vendors selling a range of bespoke Halloween crafts, taxidermy, original art, and hauntingly Victorian vintage clothing. You can even get a Tarot reading or a Halloween-themed tattoo on site!
Highball Halloween. Source: Short North Alliance.
Highball Tickets and Tips
HighBall Halloween is free to attend! If you’re looking for extra perks, VIP passes and Spooky Suites are available from the event’s official website. These tickets include exclusive access to a themed speakeasy, specialty cocktails, food vendor discounts, front-row fashion show seating and more!
Planning a costume? Keep in mind that all props must follow HighBall’s safety guidelines. Prop weapons, for example, must be lightweight, non-functional, and clearly fake. Approved materials include rubber, foam, cardboard, plastic, and papier-mâché. You can find the full costume policy here.
Get Goosebumps in Columbus this season at ExperienceColumbus.com/Halloween.
More Halloween Fun in Columbus
Beyond the festival, here are some other Halloween happenings around Columbus you won’t want to miss!
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Rocky Horror at Short North Stage: Get costume inspiration (or just revel in the chaos) at Short North Stage’s live production of The Rocky Horror Picture Show, running Fridays and Saturdays from October 3 to November 2.
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Nightmare on Town Street at Land-Grant Brewing: Throughout October, Land-Grant transforms its taproom into a spooky setting with eerie décor, a Halloween-themed drink menu, and festive events, including a dog costume contest, spooky movie nights, Halloween music trivia, and more.
FAQs
What is HighBall Halloween in Columbus, Ohio?
HighBall Halloween is an annual costume party and Halloween celebration held in the Short North Arts District.
Where is HighBall Halloween held?
This year’s HighBall Halloween will take place throughout Columbus’s Short North Arts District, stretching along High Street, from Goodale Street to Nationwide Boulevard.
Do I need a ticket to attend HighBall Halloween?
HighBall Halloween is entirely free to attend! However, VIP tickets with special perks and discounts are available for purchase.
Is HighBall Halloween family-friendly?
HighBall Halloween is considered an all-ages event; however, attendees under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Please note that some of the performances and spooky fun might be a bit too much for little ones—just something to keep in mind when planning your night out.
