What is How-To Halloween?
How-To Halloween is a grass-roots festival dedicated to fostering the do-it-yourself spirit of the spooky season. It combines elements of a maker fair, comic con, craft show, theme park, music fest and Halloween carnival,.. so there is truly something for everyone. It promises to be an immersive experience that is both inspirational and educational with many exhibits, displays, contests and hands-on activities.
How much does it cost?
The outdoor festivities are FREE to the public! The main event will be happening outside in the Riverside Parking Lot of Impression 5 Science Center, and all ages are welcome to walk right up and join in the fun. There will be a variety of activities available for no cost that will keep you busy for hours, and some participants may charge a small fee (usually only a few bucks) to cover the cost of materials for certain how-to sessions.
The event also features special programming and entertainment inside Impression 5 Science Center, and keep in mind that regular admission fees will still apply to enter. For those who’d like to do a little shopping, there will be many vendors offering unique Halloween-themed items for sale as you explore the grounds. In the end, you’ll have a fun-filled day for your whole gang at a really great value.
Is How-To Halloween appropriate for children?
Parents can rest assured that their little ones will have tons of fun in a safe environment reminiscent of the excitement that happens in your own neighborhood on Halloween. There aren't any startle scares or anything overtly disturbing on display. A parade of zombies will close out the day, but it's about as family-friendly as a zombie walk can be.
Should we dress in costume?
We strongly encourage ghouls and goblins of all ages to arrive in your coolest, most amazing creations and be a part of the huge spectacle at the show. But for those not fully decked out, we’ll have face painters on hand along with some maker sessions showing how to build elements of your own costume. Also, be sure to bring a bag because there will be trick-or-treat stations throughout the grounds.
When is the Downtown Lansing Zombie Walk?
The 14th Annual Downtown Lansing Zombie Walk is a festival highlight, and all ages of the undead are welcome to walk. Participants are asked to bring a non-perishable food donation in support of the Greater Lansing Food Bank. Please check the Z-Walk website for all the details including pricing and registration.
Will there be food available?
Yes, we welcome vendors that sell any variety of food and beverages. So if you have a food truck, baked goods booth, candy company or even a lemonade stand, you’re invited to sign up and help feed our hungry crowds.
Does How-To Halloween benefit any charities?
We assist many local charitable organizations and nonprofits, and we are collecting donations for the Greater Lansing Food Bank during the Downtown Lansing Zombie Walk. Some of our exhibitors also represent charities such as The League of Enchantment who are part of Make-A-Wish as they raise funds for visits to children hospitals, and we encourage you to support them along with our nonprofit partners including the Lansing Makers Network. So please give generously... and thanks in advance for your help!
Where do I park?
Free parking is available in the Impression 5 Science Center’s Cityside Lot and the adjacent lot (both are just north of the building). There is also an abundance of public parking lots in Downtown Lansing, and remember that metered spots are free all weekend long.