(Barrie, ON) - The City of Barrie is inviting residents to celebrate Halloween at the 6th annual Family Fright Fest on Saturday, October 24, 2026, from 3 to 9 p.m. The free, family-friendly event transforms Lampman Lane Park and Community Centre (59 Lampman Lane) into a Halloween wonderland with indoor and outdoor activities for all ages to enjoy. A vendor market and food trucks will be on site, with food and treats available for purchase.
“Family Fright Fest has become a favourite community tradition each fall,” said Kevin Datema, Director of Recreation and Culture. “It’s a chance for families to dress up, make memories, and enjoy a fun-filled Halloween celebration together.”
Family Fright Fest activities will include:
- Haunted house
- Inflatables & games provided by Moonwalk Entertainment
- Craft Corner provided by Bradford Greenhouses
- Live performances
- Costumed characters
- Barrie Police and Fire vehicles
- Forensic crime-solving activities with Barrie Police
- Barrie Transit’s “Scary Bus”
- Dance party with DJ Tee
- Costume contest
- Interactive photo booth
- Fire pit
- Haunted Story by Scary Company
The event will become scarier as the evening progresses. Younger children and visitors who prefer fewer sensory effects are encouraged to attend earlier. Parents and guardians are encouraged to use their discretion when deciding whether to participate. The time slots below outline what visitors can expect throughout the event:
3-4 p.m.: Sensory-friendly hour hosted by the City’s Inclusion Services Team, offering a quieter, less scary experience with no animated features, no scary costumes, and lights on throughout.
4–5 p.m.: Friendly Frights Hour offers fun for tiny trick-or-treaters, with a costumed performer on site. Sounds, lights and sensory effects will be in use during this hour.
5–9 p.m.: Full Fright Fest Experience becomes progressively scarier as the evening unfolds. Sensory elements increase during this period and include louder music and sound effects, dimmed lighting in the gym, flashing lights, fog effects and performers in scarier costumes.
The event space is accessible. To discuss specific accessibility requirements and plan ahead, please email events@barrie.ca or call 705-739-4285.
Family Fright Fest is generously supported by: Moonwalk Entertainment, Bradford Greenhouses, Domino’s Pizza, Alectra/Save On Energy, Rock 95, 107.5 Kool FM, Barrie 360, Pure Country 106, Bounce 104.1, Fresh 93.1, Big 101.1 and CFRH.
For more information, visit barrie.ca/FrightFest.
