Halloween season is in full swing, and if you're still filling up your family's October calendar, here's one to add to the list!
Gardner Parks and Recreation is bringing back its 30th Annual Halloween Boo Bash on Thursday, October 29, at Celebration Park. With games, rides, activities, candy, prizes and plenty of Halloween fun, it sounds like a great way to spend an evening with the kids.
As a mom of three little ones, I'm always on the lookout for local events where the kids can wear their costumes, burn off some energy and enjoy a little Halloween magic. We haven't made it to Boo Bash before, but celebrating 30 years is a pretty good sign that this is a community tradition worth checking out!
Get Ready for Costumes, Candy and More
Little ghosts and goblins are encouraged to come dressed in their cutest, silliest or homemade Halloween costumes. There's even a costume parade at 7 p.m., with prizes for the top DIY costume, funniest costume, creepiest costume and Tiny Terror (for children under 2).
Planning to enter the parade? Be sure to register at the DJ booth before 6:45 p.m.
There will also be entertainment throughout the evening and prize drawings for those with pre-purchased wristbands. It's a fun excuse to get everyone dressed up a little early and enjoy the Halloween festivities together.
What Parents Need to Know
When: Thursday, October 29, 2026, from 6 to 8 p.m.
Low-sensory time: 5:30 to 6 p.m. A special low-sensory wristband is required for this session.
Where: Celebration Park, 32501 W. 159th Street, Gardner, KS
Cost: $4 per child wristband when purchased in advance at Gardner City Hall by 5 p.m. on October 28. Wristbands purchased on the day of the event cost $5 per child and are cash only.
Parents attend for free, but children need wristbands to participate in activities, games and rides. Some rides have age restrictions, so keep that in mind when planning for younger kiddos.
Advance wristbands are available at City Hall from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. through October 28. Pre-purchased wristbands also include a prize drawing ticket.
In case of inclement weather, the event will be postponed to Friday, October 30. The city plans to make a decision by noon on October 28. Check the weather hotline at 913-543-5305 for updates.
For the latest details, visit the official Gardner Halloween Boo Bash page.
Let's Talk Halloween!
Now I'm curious: What are your kids dressing up as for Halloween this year? Are you going with a classic costume, a favorite character or something homemade? And if your family has been to Boo Bash before, tell us what we shouldn't miss! Head over to our Facebook or Instagram and let us know!
