St. Pete’s largest family-friendly open-air event, Halloween on Central, returns for its fifth year this Sunday, October 26th, from noon to 5 p.m. And it’s completely free.

Once again, more than two miles of Central Avenue will close to vehicular traffic, from Dr. MLK Jr. Street (9th) Street to 31st Street, for a full day of festive fun in the heart of the Sunshine City.

With Central Avenue closed to cars, thousands of trick-or-treaters and festivalgoers can stroll, roll, and explore 22 blocks filled with candy stops, live entertainment, vendors, and costumed revelers.

This year’s celebration is presented by ARK Ellison Horus Baker Barrios in partnership with the Grand Central District, EDGE District, and the City of St. Pete.

“Having ARK Ellison Horus Baker Barrios as our title sponsor this year has helped remind us of what community and local is all about,” said Roger Curlin, Executive Director of the EDGE Business District Association. “With attendance typically exceeding 100,000, this event brings residents and visitors together for the perfect all-community gathering.”

The title sponsor, ARK Ellison Horus Baker Barrios, is the same group behind a recently submitted unsolicited proposal to redevelop St. Petersburg’s Historic Gas Plant District, a $6.8 billion plan that envisions a new mixed-use district on the Tropicana Field site.

This year introduces several new features, such as the “Boolevard of Play” and “Family Zone”, which will transform the 2800 and 2900 blocks into lively, kid-friendly areas.

A new Sensory Area, developed with community partners, will provide a calm, supportive environment for neurodivergent and stimuli-sensitive guests, offering sensory tools, non-edible treats, and a relaxing atmosphere.

Halloween on Central will also feature themed sections throughout the 22-block stretch.

The EDGE District’s Kooky Spooky Area, from 8th to 16th Street, will offer shopping, dancing, games, and candy galore. Intermezzo’s popular Mezzo Market will be set up with 100+ local vendors.

From 16th to 21st Streets, Voodoo Vendor Village, presented by LocalShops1, will span five city blocks packed with even more local vendors.

FrankenPride, presented in partnership with St. Pete Pride, celebrates the LGBTQ+ community with entertainment, vendors, and plenty of Pride energy on the 25th Street intersection and 2400 block.

The 2500 block transforms into Gal-o-ween, celebrating women-owned businesses with shopping, activities, and entertainment.

The 2600 block will host The Spookeasy Hallow, an oddities market filled with eerie art, mystical vendors, and curious finds.

On the 2700 block, The Haunted Bazaar will offer a spirited shopping zone of creative makers, handcrafted goods, and spooky surprises.

The event encourages attendees to arrive car-free if possible, with the SunRunner offering free rides all day and Tropicana Field providing free parking. Guests can also bike, scooter, or walk from nearby neighborhoods.

For more information, visit HalloweenOnCentral.com.