Scare Up Some Fun at Dunedin’s Spooktacular Halloween

Published on October 08, 2026

Written by Jorie Peterson, City of Dunedin Special Events Coordinator

Dunedin is getting ready for three days of Halloween fun as the event returns to Highlander Park for first time since 2023 under a brand-new name: Spooktacular Halloween.

The three-day Spooktacular kicks off with the Monsters & Mayhem Haunted House in the Dunedin Community Center on Thursday, October 22, from 7 to 9 p.m. The scares continue Friday, October 23, from 7 to 9 p.m., followed by the full Spooktacular Halloween celebration Saturday, October 24, from 5 to 9 p.m. at Highlander Park.

Monsters & Mayhem Haunted House

If you enjoy a good Halloween scare, the Monsters & Mayhem Haunted House is one you won’t want to miss. The attraction replaces the haunted hayride featured at previous events, bringing a whole new level of fright. It also brings back a bit of community history and nostalgia, reminiscent of the days of Halloween celebration in the old community center which was a favorite gathering place.

For those of us who have had the privilege of serving this community for many years, bringing back that feeling is especially meaningful—and a wonderful reminder of just how long some of us have been fortunate enough to be part of this community.

This haunted attraction features scary themes, loud sounds and other spooky elements that may not be suitable for young children. Parental discretion is advised. Come prepared to scream, laugh and hold on tightly to the person walking beside you!

Spooktacular Halloween

For those looking for something a little less terrifying, Spooktacular Halloween will offer plenty of family-friendly fun. Little ones can enjoy the Little Goblins Hayride and Boo in the Zoo preschool trick-or-treating. Families can also enjoy a costume contest, sponsored by Lane’s Lemonade, carnival-style games, bounce houses, spooky crafts, food vendors and more.

Wristbands for Spooktacular Halloween are $15 per person and tickets for Monsters & Mayhem Haunted House are $5 per person. Advanced tickets go on sale starting Friday, October 9, and can be purchased online here. Tickets will also be available for sale at the door.

Whether you're dressed as a princess, superhero, witch, monster or your own creative Halloween character, there will be something for everyone.

This year’s Spooktacular Halloween may look different, but the heart of the event remains the same: bringing neighbors and families together to celebrate the season and create new memories. Come for the family fun. Stay for the food, games and activities. And if you dare, step inside the Monsters & Mayhem Haunted House!

Volunteers Needed

We’re looking for volunteers for our Halloween events. Volunteers are an important part of bringing Dunedin’s Spooktacular Halloween to life, from helping with activities and games to welcoming families and keeping the Halloween fun going. Sign up now to be part of this frightfully fun community tradition.

Mark Your Calendars for More Halloween Fun

Be sure to check the City of Dunedin Event Calendar for even more spooktacular fun, including Downtown Trick-or-Treating, the Dunedin Goes Carting Halloween Golf Cart Parade and many more Halloween events throughout the city. Visit the City Calendar for a full list of events.

Keep your costumes ready and your Halloween spirit alive because in Dunedin, the fun doesn’t end with Spooktacular. It’s only the beginning!