BOOtanica Family Halloween Event in Wichita

What to Expect at BOOtancia 2026

Botanica is advertising several activities throughout its three-weekend celebration. Here’s what you can look forward to on all six event dates:

• Pumpkin carving and face painting: Hands-on fall favorites advertised as part of the festival.
• Scarecrow Row: See the scarecrows displayed along Botanica’s glowing garden path.
• Fall Family Movie Lounge: Terrace Patio, 7–10 p.m.
• Phantom Fables with Flying Pig Improv: Beverly Blue Garden, 6–10 p.m.
• BOOtanical Shakespeare: Performances by the WSU School of Performing Arts, 6:30–8:30 p.m.
• BOOtanica Bingo: Koi Pond Pavilion at 6, 7, and 8 p.m.
• Live entertainment: Different performers are scheduled throughout the festival.

Pumpkin carving and face painting are advertised as festival activities, but Botanica doesn’t specify exact times or confirm that both are available on every date.

Special Activities and Entertainment by Date

Each night has its own entertainment lineup, and Saturdays include additional afternoon activities.

Friday, October 9

• Stevauni the Magician — 7–8 p.m. on the stage.

Saturday, October 10

• Ghosts in the Garden Story Time — 3 p.m., Children’s Garden Amphitheater.
• Cornhole Tournament — 3 p.m., Grand Lawn.
• Flow Foundry — 7–10 p.m. on the stage.

Friday, October 16

• The Wonderers — 7–10 p.m. on the stage.

Saturday, October 17

• Ghosts in the Garden Story Time — 3 p.m., Children’s Garden Amphitheater.
• Cornhole Tournament — 3 p.m., Grand Lawn.
• 80 Proof Alice — 7 p.m. on the stage.

Friday, October 23

• Trick-or-Treating — 5–7 p.m. at various locations.
• DJ Carbon — 7–10 p.m. on the stage.
• Costume Contest — 8 p.m.

Saturday, October 24

• Ghosts in the Garden Story Time — 3 p.m., Children’s Garden Amphitheater.
• Cornhole Tournament — 3 p.m., Grand Lawn.
• Trick-or-Treating — Ends at 6 p.m.; start time needs confirmation from Botanica.
• Wichita Children’s Theatre and Dance Company — Performances at 6 and 7:30 p.m. on the stage.

Trick-or-Treating at BOOtanica

If your kids are excited about trick-or-treating, you’ll want to plan for the final weekend!

Botanica has scheduled trick-or-treating for Friday, October 23, and Saturday, October 24, at various locations throughout the gardens.

Friday’s trick-or-treating runs from 5–7 p.m. Botanica’s published Saturday start time contains a typo, so I recommend confirming it directly before heading out.

BOOtanica 2026 Dates, Times & Admission

Dates: October 9–10, 16–17, and 23–24, 2026

Friday Hours: 5–10 p.m.

Saturday Hours: 2–10 p.m.

Admission:

• Adults: $17
• Children ages 3–11: $10
• Ages 2 and under: FREE

Location: Botanica, The Wichita Gardens, 701 N. Amidon St., Wichita, KS

What Else Is There to Do at Botanica?

Even after you’ve done all the activities and been thoroughly entertained, there is still plenty to see at Botanica. The 20 acres of the ever-changing botanical wonderland house more than 30 themed areas and over 4,000 plant species. As guests wind through the gardens, they will also discover additional gems. Inspiring sculptures, relaxing water features, and even a ride on a restored 1949 carousel makes for an experience to remember. It’s true that Botanica is fun for the whole family. Visit Botanica today to plan a fun and family-filled evening at Botanica.