Denton’s 31 Days of Halloween Casts a Spell with These 9 Must-See Pop-Ups

Denton, our little sister city to the north, has officially claimed its crown as the “Halloween Capital of Texas,” and it’s not hard to see why. 

For the entire month of October, this quirky, creative town transforms into a Halloween wonderland, offering over 300 events that range from the delightfully eerie to the downright bizarre.

Whether you’re a die-hard Halloween fanatic or just looking for a fun way to spend a fall evening, Denton’s 31 Days of Halloween has something for everyone. 

Here’s your ultimate guide to the month-long celebration that’s putting Denton on the spooky map.

1. The Denton Square: A Haunted Playground

The heart of Denton’s Halloween magic lies in its historic square, which becomes a hub of spooky activity throughout October. Stroll through streets adorned with eerie lights, interactive photo booths and whimsical decorations. Don’t miss the tentacles creeping out of City Hall West or the Ghostbusters headquarters at Discover Denton. The Scary Chairy Orchard, a collection of 175 spooky chairs, and the pop-up cemetery (located on the main lawn in front of Denton City Hall at 215 E. McKinney St.) with clever headstones like “Penn E. Wise” and “Nora Gretz” are must-sees. At night, the cemetery comes alive with singing busts and a hologram ghost, adding an extra layer of spookiness to the experience.

The square is also home to countless shops and eateries, many of which are decked out in Halloween decor. From sweet treats to savory snacks, there’s no shortage of delicious options to fuel your spooky adventures. And if you’re lucky, you might just catch a glimpse of Onion, the purple monster mural that’s become a local icon.

2. Haunted History and Ghost Tours

Dive into Denton’s haunted past with ghost tours led by local historian and humorous Denton Downtowners Facebook group moderator Shaun Treat. These Friday and Saturday evening tours explore tales of frontier founders like Capt. John B. Denton, infamous scandals, fiery catastrophes and even shootouts involving outlaws like Bonnie and Clyde. The tours also highlight the contributions of female pioneers, Black and Hispanic entrepreneurs and other figures who shaped Denton’s history. It’s a chilling way to see Denton in a whole new light — or shadow. 

3. Ghost Stories and Literary Chills

For those who prefer their scares with a side of storytelling, Denton’s literary scene has you covered. The Plot Twist and Patchouli Joe’s Book & Indulgences are hosting ghost story nights and author signings throughout the month. Local storytellers from the Tejas Storytelling Association will also be spinning spooky yarns in the pop-up cemetery every Saturday evening. Imagine sitting under the stars, surrounded by the eerie quiet of a graveyard, as tales of ghosts and ghouls come to life. It’s the perfect way to get your literary and supernatural fix in one go.

4. Craft Your Own Halloween

Feeling creative? Denton’s workshops are here to help you channel your inner artist. The DIME Store and Greater Denton Arts Council are offering Halloween-themed craft sessions where you can make everything from spooky decorations to unique keepsakes. For a more hands-on experience, Wildflower Art Studio’s Pottery Date Night lets you recreate that iconic Ghost moment — this time, though, you’re making clay pumpkins. It’s a fun, romantic and slightly messy way to celebrate the season.

5. Bar Crawls and Themed Nights

Denton’s nightlife scene is embracing the Halloween spirit with themed events and drink specials at bars across town. From costume contests to live music, celebrations come alive after dark. Check out the events calendar to find the perfect haunt for your level of spooky fun. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back evening with friends or a wild night of dancing and drinks, Denton’s already-eclectic array of bars offers something for everyone.

6. Movie Magic Under the Stars

Denton’s love for cinema gets a spooky twist this October with movie nights that cater to every kind of Halloween fan. The Alamo Drafthouse (Dallas theaters included) is hosting screenings of cult classics and horror favorites, while East Side Denton’s outdoor screen offers a more casual vibe for movie lovers. Theatre Denton Annex (located at the Golden Triangle Mall) and Bearded Monk are also getting in on the action, with themed movie nights that pair perfectly with a crisp fall evening. Whether you’re screaming along to Scream, laughing through Hocus Pocus, or revisiting the eerie nostalgia of Beetlejuice, these watch parties are a must for film buffs and Halloween enthusiasts alike. Don’t forget to bring a blanket and some popcorn (well, except at the Alamo)— bonus points if you show up in costume.

7. Free and Family-Friendly Fun

Not everything in Denton’s Halloween lineup requires a ticket. The 5,000-square-foot mad scientist maze at the Civic Center is free and open to all ages (though kids under 12 need an adult). Designed by local artist Dan Black, the maze features a control console where visitors can press buttons and turn switches, adding an interactive element to the experience. The Garden of Villains, featuring Scooby-Doo-inspired mannequins, is another free attraction that’s perfect for families. It’s a great way to enjoy the Halloween spirit without breaking the bank.

8. Denton’s Day of the Dead Festival

From Oct. 24-26, the Day of the Dead Festival takes over downtown Denton, blending Halloween, Día de los Muertos and harvest traditions into one unforgettable celebration. This multicultural, family-friendly event is packed with activities, including the Flight of Souls butterfly release, which honors the dead with a mass release of Monarch butterflies. The ever-popular coffin races are a highlight, drawing crowds who cheer on their favorite teams as they race down Hickory Street in elaborately decorated “coffins.”

The festival also features a pumpkin patch, a costume contest and the Cirque du Horror — a macabre yet family-friendly spectacle of spooky songs, bone-chilling poetry and spine-tingling short stories. Whether you’re there for the cultural elements, the community vibe, or just the sheer fun of it all, the Day of the Dead Festival is a joy bomb.

All that said, one of the best parts of Denton’s 31 Days of Halloween is simply wandering the town and stumbling upon its many surprises. From hidden photo ops to pop-up performances, there’s always something new to discover. So, grab your costume, your camera and your sense of adventure, and let Denton work its Halloween magic. 

9. The Giant Raising Canes Pumpkin

For some reason, Raising Canes commissioned a nearly 2,000-pound pumpkin to be displayed on the Downtown Denton Square. The gourd is intricately carved with Halloween figures like witches and skeletons, was grown by a man in Iowa, and measures 16 by 9 feet around. We don’t know why it’s there, but it’s pretty funny to look at.