Kansas City is about to paint the town orange and black again as Halloween nears. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun or late-night thrills, the metro has a full lineup of parades and festivals that promise spooky sights, creative costumes, and a strong dose of community cheer. Here’s your spirited guide to the best of this year’s Halloween happenings.
The 77th Annual Independence Halloween Parade
Date: Saturday, October 25, 2025 – 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM
Location: Historic Independence Square
This beloved tradition, hosted by the Independence Chamber of Commerce, is the longest-running Halloween parade in the metro area. Expect a vibrant lineup of floats, marching bands, costumed community groups, and plenty of candy tossed from smiling parade-goers. Whether you join in the fun or cheer from the sidewalk, this spirited celebration captures the neighborly charm Kansas City does best. Learn how to register or sponsor the parade through the Independence Chamber site.
Boos, Barks & Badges Parade at Downtown Lee’s Summit
Date: Saturday, October 25, 2025 – 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Furry friends take center stage in this community favorite. The Boos, Barks & Badges Parade brings local families, police officers, and canine companions together for a wholesome morning stroll through Downtown Lee’s Summit. Expect dog costumes ranging from witches to hot dogs and plenty of photo-worthy moments. For details on route info and participation, see the Downtown Lee’s Summit calendar.
Funkenstein Festival
Dates: October 24–25, 2025
Location: Legends Field, Kansas City, KS
Halloween gets an electric twist with Funkenstein Festival, a two-day music rave where funky beats and costume creativity collide. Legends Field turns into what organizers dub “the Rave-yard,” complete with towering light displays and EDM headliners like Big Gigantic and The Floozies. From electrifying sets to over-the-top outfits, the Funkenstein crowd takes “dress to thrill” seriously. Details and tickets are available via Visit KC.
Boo at the Zoo
Dates: October 25–26, 2025 – 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Location: Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium
Kids can roam safely in full costume through animal exhibits at Boo at the Zoo, an annual family staple. Enjoy themed stations, candy giveaways, and Halloween crafts without the fright factor. This daytime favorite pairs Kansas City’s love for animals with pure seasonal joy. Find out more at the Kansas City Zoo.
End of Days Halloween Party at KC Live!
Date: Saturday, October 25, 2025 – 7:00 PM
Location: Kansas City Power & Light District
When the sun sets, the atmosphere in the Power & Light District flips to full apocalypse mode during End of Days, one of Kansas City’s biggest Halloween parties. From $10,000 costume contests to high-energy DJ sets, this ticketed event turns the KC Live! Block into a post-apocalyptic playground. Guests can level up to VIP admission for all-inclusive drinks at more than 10 bars and clubs between 7 and 10 PM. More details and tickets are at KC Live’s official event page.
NightmareKC Halloween Costume Party
Date: Saturday, October 25, 2025 – 10:00 PM to 1:30 AM
Location: Culture X Sports Lounge, 7502 Troost Ave.
For those who like their Halloween with a side of nightlife, NightmareKC invites over-the-top costumes and competitive spirit with a cash prize contest rewarding the most creative looks. This event draws a lively crowd ready to dance, mingle, and toast to spooky season. Reserve tickets through Eventbrite.
Get Parade-Ready: Tips for Participants
If you’re planning to march, float, or wave in one of this year’s events, keep these simple prep ideas in mind:
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Pick a theme early. Parade rules often limit last-minute entries, like Independence’s cutoff on October 20, so finalize your creative idea in advance.
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Craft a standout costume. Whether spooky or silly, add some KC flair, think Chiefs, jazz motifs, or classic barbecue themes.
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Stock plenty of candy. Parade crowds expect sweets, and handing out treats keeps the spirit playful for all ages.
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Prepare for the weather. Layers and warm accessories go a long way for late-October mornings.
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Stay photo-friendly. Community photographers love capturing standout looks, so keep your outfit expressive yet comfortable.
As pumpkins line porches and costumes fill closets, Kansas City is ready to celebrate its favorite fall tradition: gathering together under swirling leaves and good cheer. From parades filled with kids and canines to parties pulsing with midnight beats, Halloween 2025 in Kansas City proves one thing: this city knows how to turn every October street into a parade route for fun.
Sources: business.ichamber.biz, downtownls.org, kansascityzoo.org, powerandlightdistrict.com, eventbrite.com
Header Image Source: Fernando Paleta
