Vienna might be best known for its classical concerts and grand cafés, but when October arrives, the city’s elegant façade takes on a darker charm. From haunted funfair rides in the Prater to rooftop parties, eerie concerts and candle-lit cruises on the Danube, Halloween in Wien blends sophistication with just the right amount of spook. Whether you’re dressing up for the parade, dancing until dawn, or exploring Vienna’s ghostly side, you’ll find the city full of festive mischief and atmosphere.

• 👻 Quick Snapshot: What to Expect
• 🎭 Costume parades and themed runs.
• 🎡 Haunted rides, spooky shows, and family fun at the Prater.
• 🏙️ Rooftop and club parties, including PraterDome and Zoku Vienna.
• 🌌 Halloween experiences at the Planetarium.
• 🕯️ Candlelight concerts and Danube cruise parties.
• 🍬 Family-friendly activities in the afternoon, thrill-filled events at night.
   

​🎡 Halloween in the Prater

For most locals, the heart of Halloween in Wien beats loudest in the Prater amusement park. Between October 29 – 31, the entire fairground transforms into a haunted playground filled with lights, music, and costumed performers.

The Halloween Parade begins around 18:30, featuring floats, fire shows, and performers winding through the park’s main avenue. Earlier in the day, families enjoy pumpkin carving, costume contests, and children’s entertainment. As night falls, thrill-seekers flock to haunted rides and spooky attractions that stay open until late.

The PraterDome hosts Vienna’s biggest Halloween party for adults — expect multiple dance floors, themed rooms, and thousands of costumed revellers.
Local tip: Arrive before sunset for the parade, stay for the late-night fun, and keep a warm layer handy — nights can be chilly in the open air.
 

🏃 Vienna Halloween Run

For those who prefer active celebrations, the Vienna Halloween Run offers a mix of fitness and fun. Runners in costume tackle 5 km or 2.5 km routes through the leafy Prater alleys. It’s light-hearted, community-driven, and full of creative outfits — from vampires and skeletons to pumpkin joggers.
Local tip: Wear something breathable but themed — the best costumes often win prizes!
 

🌌 Ghosts, Stars & Cosmic Horror

Vienna’s Planetarium joins the festivities with Halloween-themed shows mixing science and storytelling. Expect eerie music, mysterious constellations, and the myths that once terrified stargazers. For those who prefer cultural chills to haunted houses, you can experience a hauntingly beautiful Candlelight: A Spooky Evening Full of Halloween Classics — live classical music by candlelight that captures the darker side of Vienna’s elegance.
Local tip: Book early — these themed shows usually sell out days before Halloween.
 

🏙️ Rooftop & Club Nights

Vienna’s nightlife scene turns up the volume in late October. Expect themed events at stylish venues like Zoku Vienna, where the rooftop transforms into a sky-high costume party with panoramic city views. For something wilder, PraterDome remains the go-to for all-night dancing — multiple DJs, immersive decorations, and thousands in costume.
Local tip: Combine glamour and fright — most locals opt for creative but elegant costumes rather than full gore.
 

🚢 Halloween on the Danube

If you’d rather celebrate on the water, join the Danube Cruise Halloween Party for a completely different perspective on the city. This floating party features music, themed cocktails, and a view of Vienna lit up against the night sky — perfect for couples or groups wanting something more refined than the Prater crowds.
Local tip: Arrive early to board and bring a warm jacket — it can get breezy on deck.
 

👨‍👩‍👧 Family-Friendly Halloween

Families don’t have to miss out. The Prater hosts daytime fun with face-painting, pumpkin carving, and stage shows for kids, while museums and shopping centres often run costume contests and themed workshops. The atmosphere is friendly, festive, and far from frightening — ideal for younger visitors.
Local tip: Visit between 14:00 – 17:00 to enjoy the lighter events before the evening crowds arrive.

🧭 Practical Info & Planning

Best time to visit: 29 – 31 October 2025, with the main celebrations on the 31st.
Dress code: Costumes encouraged — warm layers recommended.
Transport: U-Bahn lines U1 & U2 (Praterstern) reach most events easily. Night trams and buses run after midnight.
Tickets: Prater events are mostly free; clubs, cruises and concerts require booking.
Money: Many vendors accept cards, but small stalls prefer cash.
Local tip: Book hotels early — Halloween weekend gets busy in central districts.
 

✨ Closing

From candlelit concerts and haunted rides to rooftop parties and eerie river cruises, Halloween in Wien offers something for every taste. It’s a night where the city’s beauty takes on a mysterious glow — elegant yet eerie, spooky yet sophisticated. So whether you’re dancing in disguise, sipping wine by the Danube, or watching the parade at the Prater, Vienna will make your Halloween one to remember.