The City of Brantford is gearing up for the return of its frightfully fun Scare in the Square festival, set to take over Harmony Square and Mohawk Park on Friday, October 3 and Saturday, October 4, 2025.
The annual Halloween-themed event promises something for every age group, from family-friendly activities downtown to spine-chilling scares in the park.
Free shuttle service will connect the two sites, making it easy for residents and visitors to take part in the full slate of activities.
“The City of Brantford’s Special Events team is brewing up a thrilling Halloween event that is sure to delightfully fright residents of all ages,” said Jennifer Middleton, Special Events Supervisor.
“We are extremely grateful for the continued support of the Downtown Brantford BIA and local community partners, whose generosity makes it possible to offer affordable, quality activities.”
At Harmony Square (89 Dalhousie St.), families will find a lineup of activities running throughout the weekend:
• Scarecrow and pumpkin displays with public voting
• Casper’s Craft Corner for hands-on Halloween crafts (Friday 5–9 p.m., Saturday 2–9 p.m.)
• Roller-skating party (Friday & Saturday 6:30–10 p.m., $10 rentals available)
• Boo-tique Nail Salon, offering spooky-themed nail painting (Friday 5–9 p.m., Saturday 12–9 p.m.)
• Character meet and greets with children’s favourites on both days
Pet owners can join the HOWL-o-ween Dog Parade on Friday at 5:30 p.m., while Saturday brings the Tiny Tots Parade (1 p.m.), a Stationary Jeep Parade (2–4 p.m.), and a costume contest with prizes (4 p.m.).
Later, choreographer Quinn Morris will lead a crowd in the iconic “Thriller” dance at 5 p.m.
Amusement rides and carnival games will also return, with tickets and wristbands available for purchase.
Visitors can add an extra thrill with Paranormal Tours and themed escape rooms hosted by Five Nineteen Productions.
Those seeking scarier thrills can head to Mohawk Park (51 Lynwood Dr.), where activities are geared to teens and adults.
Highlights include:
• A clown-themed Haunted House inside the pavilion (Friday & Saturday, 6–10 p.m., ages 14+)
• A nightmare-inspired trail walk through portals of horror (free, Friday & Saturday, 6–10 p.m.)
• A free drive-in movie screening of “IT” (2017) on Friday at 8 p.m. in the upper parking lot (limited spaces available)
Brantford Transit routes stop near Harmony Square, with the main terminal only a block away. Free shuttles will run between Harmony Square and Mohawk Park from 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. both nights.
The city is inviting local businesses and organizations to participate through sponsorships, prize donations, and decorating contests.
Volunteers are also being sought to help run the event, with training set for September 29. Applications are open until September 23 at Brantford.ca/ScareintheSquare.
This year’s event is supported by community sponsors including the Downtown Brantford BIA, Global Pet Foods, Five Nineteen Productions, Fright Club, and the Ontario Paranormal Society, among others.
For full schedules, ticket information, and volunteer details, visit Brantford.ca/ScareintheSquare.
