Burlington Spooky City

Burlington’s annual Spooky City transforms the historic downtown into one of southeast Wisconsin’s largest free Halloween celebrations, drawing thousands of visitors for a full day of family-friendly entertainment. More than 60 downtown businesses hand out an estimated 60,000 pieces of candy during the business-to-business trick-or-treat, while costumed street performers, hayrides, live entertainment, and seasonal activities fill the streets. The event has become a Burlington tradition spanning more than three decades and is known for combining classic small-town Halloween charm with creative community participation.

A highlight of the festival is the popular Coffin Races, where costumed teams build and race handmade coffins through downtown streets in front of cheering spectators. Spooky City also features Día de los Muertos festivities, a downtown Spirit Walk for adults at participating bars and restaurants, local shopping, food vendors, and evening entertainment, making it an event that appeals to families during the day and adults after dark. Whether you’re coming for the coffin races, candy, costumes, or Halloween atmosphere, Spooky City is one of Wisconsin’s signature October festivals.