Costumes, Candy, and Community
Families filled the streets — superheroes, witches, princesses, pirates, and everything in between. Kids giggled their way from shop to shop, trick-or-treating with business owners who went all out with candy, costumes, and decorations. Seeing downtown merchants come together with such enthusiasm is one of those small-town moments that never loses its magic.
Storefronts were decked out in Halloween spirit, and smiles seemed to glow brighter than the jack-o’-lanterns. In fact, Bend the Trend won our Storefront Decoration Category! The joy was contagious — adults beamed as their kids ran from door to door, hands full of candy and hearts full of excitement.
Art, Books, and Painted Pumpkins
Inside the Huntington Arts Center, the energy continued with a lively book fair and a pumpkin painting station, generously sponsored by Loon Creek and Century 21. The tables were covered in paint, glitter, and happy little pumpkins — and even happier artists. The arts center was buzzing all afternoon, filled with families creating, laughing, and connecting through art.
The Night Market and Local Flavors
Outside, the night market came alive with conversation, laughter, and the mouthwatering aromas of local favorites — El Ranchero, JB’s Cuisine Machine, and Epic Eats. The food trucks stayed busy, and every bite seemed to come with a smile.
The kids were thrilled to explore the massive inflatable maze, donated by Best Friend Network LLC, while hayrides sponsored by Legend Sports Bar and Market Street Bar & Grill offered families a perfect way to enjoy the crisp fall air.
And for the grown-ups, the downtown pub crawl was a spirited success — with Wise Guys, Blue Collar Bar, Legend Sports Bar, Market Street Bar & Grill, and Big Daddy’s all joining the fun.
Costumes, Characters, and Contest Winners
The annual costume contest was once again a highlight of the night, brilliantly organized by Sondra from The Haunt 1362. With entries ranging from adorable toddlers to imaginative adults, the creativity on display was nothing short of inspiring. A panel of local judges, including Mayor Strick, did a fantastic job recognizing winners from every age group.
And as if the evening wasn’t lively enough, the Headless Horseman and Michael Myers — representing both Huntington and Warren — made their grand appearances, delighting the crowd and adding just the right touch of Halloween spirit.
A Note on the Evening’s Planned Performances
We were deeply disappointed when the weather forced us to end the festivities early. The wind and rain came in quickly, and for safety reasons we had to cancel the much-anticipated fire dancers’ performance. We know many of you — and we — were looking forward to that moment; it’s a beloved part of the night and one that always brings a flourish of awe and excitement.
We sincerely apologize to everyone who came out for the full evening and to the performers themselves. Thank you to the artists who prepared for the show and to the community for your patience and understanding. We’re already talking with performers and partners about ways to bring that magic back next year — better, safer, and just as spectacular.
When the Rain Came
Just as the night hit its stride, the weather had other plans. The wind picked up, the rain poured down, and we had to close the event earlier than planned. Sadly, the much-anticipated fire dancers — a fan favorite every year — couldn’t perform due to the storm.
But even as the skies darkened, the spirit of Hauntington never dimmed. The laughter, the costumes, and the sense of connection lingered long after the rain.
Gratitude and Community
Even with the unexpected weather, Hauntington 2025 was a beautiful success — a true reflection of what happens when a community comes together. Our hearts are full of gratitude for Main Street Huntington, Pathfinders, Soul Weaver Alchemy, The Haunt 1362, Best Friend Network LLC, and every downtown business, vendor, volunteer, and family who helped make the event unforgettable.
Rain or shine, Huntington knows how to show up — in costume, in spirit, and in heart.
