Halloween Happenings You Don’t Want to Miss

If you live in Greater Columbia, Lexington, or anywhere in Richland and Lexington County, you already know fall is the season when our area comes alive—with neighbors in costumes, kids on the hunt for candy, and our best-loved events happening all week long. Whether you’re planning for a night with the little ones or want a festive moment with friends, here are the Halloween events locals are buzzing about right now:

Lexington’s Fall Festival at Icehouse Amphitheater

Tuesday, October 28, 5:30–8:30pm, Icehouse Amphitheater in Downtown Lexington
Known as one of Lexington’s most beloved traditions, the Fall Festival hosted by the Lexington Police Department Foundation is back for its 21st year. Expect games, live music, plenty of food, and—of course—a big community costume contest that’s perfect for kids, adults, and anyone who wants a fun night out. Tickets are $5 for ages six and up, and they’re limited, so grab yours early before they sell out. If you want lasting memories and a real sense of small-town connection, make this the night to come downtown.

• Details & tickets: https://www.lexsc.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=401

Riverbanks Boo at the Zoo

Every night through October 30, 6–9pm at Riverbanks Zoo & Garden, Columbia
Boo at the Zoo is an absolute treat for families, with trick-or-treat stations, magic shows, and even Haunted Hideaway Igloos for those who want to kick the spooks up a notch. If you haven’t made it out yet, don’t wait! It’s lively, fun, and runs nightly this week, so you can still find the perfect evening (and avoid those weekend crowds).

• Event details & planning tips: https://www.abccolumbia.com/2025/10/21/local-living-riverbanks-boo-at-the-zoo/

Want a sneak peek before committing? Check out a video walkthrough showing all the candy spots, costumes, and festive fun—perfect for prepping the kids:

• Watch here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OtooiZ7qF0M

Soda City Market Halloween—Columbia’s Main Street

Saturday morning, November 1, Main Street, Columbia
If you’re in town for the weekend, Columbia’s Soda City Market transforms for Halloween. Costumes, artisan treats, local food, and festive energy make it a must-stop for anyone who loves community vibes on a Saturday. It’s family-friendly, walkable, and the perfect way to round out your Halloween week with something fresh and local.

• Find out more: https://sodacitysc.com

Trunk Or Treats Lists in the Areas

Lexington County:

• VFWSC – Sat, Oct 25, 11 AM, 210 Glassmaster Rd

• American Leadership Academy – Fri, Oct 24, 5:30–7:30 PM, 115 Innovation Pl

• Twelve Oak Estate – Wed, Oct 29, 6:30 PM

• Wellmore of Lexington – Thu, Oct 23, 5–7 PM

Richland County (Columbia):

• Historic Columbia (Robert Mills House) – Wed, Oct 29, 5:30–7 PM, 1616 Blanding St

• Columbia Community Trunk or Treat (SC DSS) – Fri, Oct 17, 5:30–7 PM

• Keller Williams Realty – Fri, Oct 24, 5–7 PM, 1 Harbison Way

• North Springs Park – Fri, Oct 24, 6–7:30 PM, 1320 Clemson Rd

• Trenholm Park – Sat, Oct 25, 1–4 PM, 3900 Covenant Rd

• St. Andrews Park – Fri, Oct 24, 6–8 PM, 920 Beatty Rd

• Bluff Road Park (Drive-Thru) – Wed, Oct 29, 6–8 PM, 148 Carswell Dr

What to Watch Next:

• Buying or selling a home near one of these hotspots? Ask me about trends in the neighborhood and how events like these can impact curb appeal (and value!).

• Interested in next month’s festivities and holiday pop-ups? Stay tuned—Columbia and Lexington never slow down!

Sources & More Info:

• Lexington Fall Festival: https://www.lexsc.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=401

• Boo at the Zoo: https://www.abccolumbia.com/2025/10/21/local-living-riverbanks-boo-at-the-zoo/

• Boo at the Zoo video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OtooiZ7qF0M

• Soda City Market: https://sodacitysc.com