Families across Manatee County will have plenty of opportunities to celebrate Halloween October 23–25, 2026, with trunk-or-treat events, fall festivals, costumes, candy and seasonal activities throughout the community.
Thursday, October 22
Manatee County Sheriff’s Office Spooktactical Event — The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office will host a family-friendly Halloween celebration from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the MCSO Operations Center, 600 301 Boulevard W. in Bradenton. The event will feature trick-or-treating at law enforcement stations, emergency vehicle displays, demonstrations, children’s activities and food trucks. Free hot dogs, chips and water will be available while supplies last. The Manatee County Search and Rescue team will also participate, allowing families to meet first responders and learn about their work in the community.
Friday, October 23
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County will host a community Trunk or Treat from 5 to 7:30 p.m. at the Palmetto Club, 1600 10th Street W. in Palmetto. The family-friendly event will feature candy, music, games and community resources.
Saturday, October 24
Old Manatee Halloween will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. along Manatee Avenue East in Bradenton, between 611 and 915 Manatee Avenue E. Participating businesses will offer trick-or-treating, specials and prizes.
Batastic Halloween at Bat City will run from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., featuring free trick-or-read comics, local artists, spooky crafts and Halloween candy. Costumes are encouraged.
East Manatee Fire Rescue will host Trunk or Treat from 4 to 6 p.m. at 3200 Lakewood Ranch Boulevard, offering a community Halloween celebration for families.
HOLA Elementary will hold its Trunk or Treat from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., giving children an opportunity to enjoy candy and Halloween festivities.
The Lakewood Ranch YMCA, 5100 Lakewood Ranch Boulevard, will host Trunk or Treat from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Activities include candy, games, a costume contest, food trucks and a haunted house. The haunted house requires separate tickets.
Fall Festivals Throughout the Weekend
Country Critters Animal Adventure Park, 15571 Rutland Road in Parrish, will host its Fall Festival on Saturday, October 24, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Families can enjoy pumpkin carving, animal encounters, face painting, vendors and optional pony rides. Admission is $15, with children younger than 2 admitted free.
Dakin Dairy Farms, 30771 Betts Road in Myakka City, will hold its Harvest Festival on Saturday and Sunday, October 24–25, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Activities include hayrides, live music, food trucks, vendors, bounce houses and a pumpkin cannon. Admission is $20, with children ages 5 and younger admitted free. Parking is free.
Ananda Farms in Terra Ceia is also celebrating the fall season with farm experiences and family activities. Families should confirm festival dates, hours and admission details directly with the farm before visiting.
With celebrations spread across Bradenton, Palmetto, Parrish, Lakewood Ranch and Myakka City, families have a variety of opportunities to enjoy the fall season close to home.