About the Event
USF St. Petersburg, Orlando Health Bayfront Hospital and the Tampa Bay Rays present the 5th Annual Halloween Fest!
Campus and community partners come together to celebrate spooky season with this beloved annual tradition! Last year we welcomed over 2000 families with the help of 40+ community and campus partners.
People of all ages are welcome to attend this spooktacular free event!
When: Friday, October 30, 2026
Time: 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Where: USF St. Petersburg Campus - 140 7th Ave S, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Halloween Fest 2026 will be filled with Halloween fun, community spirit and plenty of Bull pride. We can’t wait to celebrate with you! This year's activities will include:
- A tent-or-treat down the campus Harbor Walk
- Trunk-or-treat
- Touch-a-truck
- Haunted petting zoo
- Spooky STEM activities
- Special performances
And much more!
Exhibitor Registration is now open!
We invite community partners, non-profits, and local business to participate in the tent/trunk-or-treat or host an educational, family-friendly activity!
Useful information
Is Halloween Fest Free?
Yes! Halloween Fest is free and open to the public! Some activities may have limited capacity and are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Do I need to register in advance?
We encourage families to register ahead of time so we can plan accordingly - plus, you’ll get event updates sent straight to your inbox! Walk-ups are welcome, but pre-registration is appreciated.
Do I need to bring my registration confirmation to enter?
No physical ticket is required. If you’ve registered, you’re on our list - just check in when you arrive at the welcome tent and pick up your festival guide. The first 500 guests will get a free Halloween Fest tote bag!
Is the event appropriate for all ages?
Absolutely! Activities are geared toward children under 13, but there’s fun for teens and adults too!
Is there a fee to park?
There is free parking on a first come, first serve basis in the USF St. Petersburg parking garage located at 250 5th Ave S. directly across the street from the event. There is metered street parking all around campus.
Will there be restrooms available?
Yes, restrooms—including accessible options—will be available throughout the event area in the University Student Center and Davis buildings.
What kind of activities will be offered?
Families can enjoy a variety of activities including a touch-a-truck and trunk-or-treat in the parking lot, haunted petting zoo, a tent-or-treat and costume parade along Harbor Walk, special performances, coloring stations, face painting, and more!
Food & refreshments
Will there be food?
Yes! Food will be available for purchase from Campus Dining and local food vendors!
Can we bring our own food or drinks?
Yes, you’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks. Refreshments will also be available for purchase on-site.
Safety
Will there be first aid on-site?
Yes, a designated first aid station will be available, staffed by trained personnel from Orlando Health Bayfront Hospital. Look for the orange Orlando Health tent! This will also be the site to report a lost child or any other emergencies.
Get Involved
Can I volunteer for this event?
We'd love that! Email colleencherry@usf.edu to get involved!
Can I donate candy?
Yes please! You can donate candy through our Amazon Wishlist or emailing colleencherry@usf.edu
Special thanks to our sponsors:
Media Sponsor
Candy Sponsor
Hilton Bayfront St. Petersburg
Interested in sponsoring Halloween Fest? Reach out to colleencherry@usf.edu