Lincoln gets set for a spooktacular Halloween as The Big Spook returns for 2026

Monster invasions, a brand-new ghostly parade, a pumpkin patch and an outdoor murder mystery will bring Halloween excitement to Lincoln from 24 October.

Lincoln is preparing for a spooktacular Halloween as The Big Spook returns from Saturday 24 October, bringing a week of family-friendly activities, unusual sights and interactive experiences to the city's streets.

Organised by Lincoln BIG, the annual Halloween event will see monsters appear at locations across the city, a spectacular new parade take to the historic streets, the return of the popular Pumpkin Patch at Waterside Shopping Centre and an immersive outdoor murder mystery challenging visitors to solve a fictional crime.

Running throughout the half-term period, The Big Spook encourages residents and visitors to explore Lincoln, discover its landmarks and businesses, and enjoy a different side of the city.

A monster invasion across the city

From 24 to 31 October, Lincoln's streets will be invaded by a collection of colourful and unusual monsters. Visitors can look out for the creatures at locations including Exchequergate, Seven Districts Coffee in Bailgate, Waterside, Sills & Betteridge, Optima, Nationwide, Clintons and Home.

The city-wide Monster Invasion will give families another reason to explore Lincoln, with the Halloween Character Trail also returning during the same week. The Lincoln BIG Tour Bus will run from 24 to 31 October, adding another way for visitors to enjoy the city during the festivities.

Meet the Family of Phantoms

A major highlight for 2026 will be the Family of Phantoms Parade on Thursday 29 October, a brand-new parade produced by Walk the Plank and programmed by Lincoln BIG.

The mesmerising, otherworldly family will glide through Lincoln's historic streets in illuminated, vibrant flowing capes, moving together like a drifting cloud. Accompanied by haunting melodies and a mysterious ghost rider on wheels, the performance promises to bring an enchanting and unusual spectacle to the city.

There will be three opportunities to see the parade, at 1.30pm, 3.30pm and 5.30pm.

All three parades will start at the Assembly Rooms, travelling along Bailgate, onto Eastgate and into Minster Yard.

Pick the perfect pumpkin

The Pumpkin Patch returns to Waterside Shopping Centre on Friday 30 October, from 11am to 4pm.

Visitors can enjoy autumn-themed photo opportunities, meet the friendly scarecrows and pick up a pumpkin of their own. Free pumpkins will be available on a first come, first served basis, making it an ideal family activity during the Halloween half-term break.

Can you solve the murder?

The Halloween excitement continues into November with The Big Spook Murder Mystery on Saturday 31 October and Sunday 1 November.

Participants will be invited to become detectives and investigate the fictional murder of Chester Monte, Lincoln's most talked-about politician, who is found dead just hours before a live television debate that could have secured his election as Lincoln's mayor.

With six potential suspects and a case to crack, teams will explore Lincoln's streets and landmarks, collecting evidence and solving puzzles along the way.

The interactive outdoor experience uses an app alongside real-world challenges inspired by local history, buildings and objects. Teams will tackle around 15 stops over an approximately 2.5km route, with the investigation taking around two to three hours.

Starting at Cornhill Pavement, teams of up to six adults can begin their investigation at any time between 11am and 6pm. Children can take part for free and do not count towards the adult team limit. Fancy dress is optional, with prizes available for the fastest team to solve the case and the best team photo.

Bringing Halloween fun to Lincoln

The Big Spook forms part of Lincoln BIG's programme of activity designed to encourage people to explore the city, support local businesses and enjoy memorable experiences in Lincoln.

With activities taking place across the city centre, the event offers opportunities for families, residents and visitors to discover new places, enjoy local attractions and spend time in Lincoln during one of the busiest periods of the autumn calendar.