A Hauntingly Good Time: Halloween on Anna Maria Island
Halloween on Anna Maria Island and in nearby Bradenton, Florida, is a treat for the whole family! From festive parades and spooky ghost tours to pumpkin patches and candy-filled trick-or-treating, the area offers a wide variety of events that capture the fun and spirit of the season. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly activities or a slightly spookier adventure, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this charming coastal community.
What is Anna Maria Island Like in October?
If you’re vacationing on Anna Maria Island or in Bradenton in October, you’re in fang-tastic time. The mild weather, fewer crowds, and local events all make it ideal for a fall getaway. We also offer lower rates on our Anna Maria Island vacation rentals, so take advantage of the season’s big savings!
Anna Maria Island Halloween Events 2025
Trail of Treats: October 31
Join the Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce for family-friendly Halloween festivities! From 4:00 pm to 6:30 pm, kids of all age groups can participate in the costume contest and enjoy snacks and prizes. The costume contest will begin at 4 pm, with winners receiving trophies. At 4:30 pm, trick-or-treaters can hit the trail of treats (a map of participants will be provided).
Pine Avenue Trick-or-Treating: October 31
Celebrate Halloween on Anna Maria Island with a sweet stroll down Pine Avenue! Each year, this charming street transforms into a festive destination for trick-or-treaters, with local shops and businesses handing out candy to costumed visitors. Families can enjoy a fun, laid-back evening filled with treats, friendly faces, and a true small-town Halloween vibe — all set against the island’s coastal charm.
Dance Party w/ DJ Gator Ryan Halloween Party: October 31
Put on your best costumes and head to Freckled Fin for their Halloween dance party! From 8:30 pm to 11:45 pm, DJ Gator Ryan will be playing hit tracks and tunes so you can groove the night away. The event is free to attend.
Bradenton Halloween Events 2025
23rd Annual Goblin Gathering: October 17
This outdoor event in Bradenton is family-friendly and fun for all ages! Local businesses will be passing out “treats & sweets” to participants, providing a safe alternative for families to trick-or-treat. This year will also feature bounce houses, face painting, costume contests, a petting zoo, and magic! The Goblin Gathering will be held at G.T. Bray Recreation Center from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
Hunsader Farms Festival: October 18-19 and 25-26
A Bradenton favorite every year, the Hunsader Farms Festival brings people from all over to celebrate the fall season. You can expect live music/shows, kids’ pumpkin games, hay rides, pony rides, petting zoo, face painting, and so much more. You could easily spend your whole afternoon at the festival, and we couldn’t blame you! Make sure to bring cash as the majority of the festival is cash only, with a few vendors accepting cards. Admission is $15 for ages 10+, $5 for children 5-9, FREE for children under 5, and $5 for parking.
Spooktactical Evening with MCSO: October 23
Sheriff Rick Wells invites you to join the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office for a “spooktactical” evening of family fun! MCSO units, special teams, and community partners will have vehicles on display, demonstrations, activities for kids, food, and trick-or-treating at each unit’s station. The event is free to the public, and free hot dogs, chips, and water will be available while supplies last. Additionally, food trucks will be available with extra options for purchase. Please follow the posted signage for directions. 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Halloween at the Market – Bradenton: October 25
Stop by the Bradenton Public Market for Halloween at the Market from 9:00 am – 2:00 pm (or while candy lasts). This family-friendly event includes trick-or-treating with the Market Friends.
11th Annual Trick-or-Treat in the Village: October 31
Have a happy howl-o-ween at the Village of the Arts annual Trick-or-Treat in the Village. From 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm, children dressed up in their favorite costumes can walk around the neighborhood and collect candy from the community. It’s a fun and safe way to spend the evening!
