HALLOWEEN IN DOWNTOWN ITHACA
What to Expect
Kids in costume can collect candy from businesses across the Commons. Our roaming photographer will capture the fun, and this year features the Downtown Dogs Costume Contest at 6:00 PM on the Bernie Milton Pavilion. A witches performance may be added (TBC).
Event Details
Date: Friday, October 24, 2025
Time: 4:00 to 6:30 PM
Place: Downtown Ithaca Commons
Look for participating locations displaying a "Halloween in Downtown" sign in the window.
Map & Participating Locations
Participating businesses will be listed here as they confirm.
- Shops and eateries on the Commons
- Aurora St • East State St • Cayuga St • Green St
- Inside the Dewitt Mall
Know Before You Go
- Bring a small candy bag or bucket
- Dress for cool fall weather
- Be kind and patient at busy candy stops
- Cross at signals and follow event signage
Weather policy: light rain or shine. Severe weather updates will appear on this page and on our social channels.
Dog Costume Contest
This year, not only can your furry friend trick-or-treat at the Belle’s Barkery tent on the Commons, they can strut their stuff in our first-ever Downtown Dogs Costume Contest.
- Start: 6:00 PM on the Bernie Milton Pavilion
- Format: Walk your dog down the cat-walk while judges select winners
- Judges: Veterinary Care of Ithaca and High Peaks Canine
Categories (choose one):
- Best Costume - Small Dog
- Best Costume - Large Dog
- Best Partner or Group Costume - Owner and Dog
Prizes: First-place prizes provided by Belle’s Barkery: Halloween Dog Bundle (plush toy, collar bandana, and treats) plus a Belle’s Barkery t-shirt for each owner of a winning dog. Best Partner or Group winners also receive a Dog Mom or Dog Dad hat. All participants will receive a free ticket for a cocktail or mocktail at the After Paw-ty at The Strand Cafe!
Sign Up for the Dog Costume Contest
Leashes required. Please be mindful around small children and other pets.
After Paw-ty
Time: 6:30 - 8:30 PM
Location: The Strand Cafe
All kids, dogs, families, ghouls, and gals are welcome at the After Paw-ty! There will be special spooky cocktails, mocktails, dog treats, and games and fun! Bring your bags of candy from Trick-or-Treating with you, and enjoy the cozy atmosphere of The Strand Cafe.
Dog Participants Perk
All participants in the Downtown Dogs Costume Contest will receive a free ticket for a cocktail or mocktail redeemable at the After Paw-ty at The Strand Cafe.
Parking & Transit
Downtown garages and on-street parking are steps from the Commons. Consider carpooling or TCAT to reduce congestion.
Accessibility
The Commons is a pedestrian mall with curb ramps and accessible entries at many businesses.
- Wide, level walkways
- Accessible garage options nearby
- Service animals welcome
Questions or accommodation requests: info@downtownithaca.com
