When it comes to Halloween, Columbus dives headfirst into some of the country’s most unique and scary events. Whether you’re into horror movies or dressing up and going to a costume party, there is always something for everyone in Columbus. Here are some of our highlights of this year’s Halloween season.

Nightmare on Main Street

The Drexel Theater, one of Columbus’ most iconic movie theaters, hosts an annual horror movie marathon. For the past seven years, the theater’s Horror Marathon showcases the best independent horror movies from around the world and it takes an entire day to show them all. The marathon starts on October 17th at noon and ends on the 18th at noon.

HighBall in the Short North

Every year, the Short North Arts District hosts one of the country’s largest Halloween festivals,HighBall. You’re encouraged to dress up however you’d like with the “you are what you wear” motto. HighBall features musical performances and a costume contest second to none in Columbus. There is also live art and a street party throughout the Short North. Plus, HighBall raises money to fund the Short North Arts District, so you can have fun and help the local art community too! This year the festival will take place on October 23 and 24.

Park Street Tavern Halloween

One of our favorite Halloween parties is Park Street Tavern’s annual Halloween show. Every year on October 31, the Tavern puts on a Halloween rock show featuring the best cover bands in Columbus. Every year, the bands choose a famous band to dress up as and play cover songs of them. In the past, bands have been The Stray Cats, U2, Twisted Sister, Michael Jackson, Nirvana and Janis Joplin. This year’s lineup includes Beastie Boys, The B-52’s, Culture Club, Devo and Jack Johnson!