Find Out Why Deadwood Is South Dakota’s Best Halloween Town To Visit This Fall

If there’s one time of year I truly look forward to, it’s Halloween—and Deadwood, South Dakota, makes it easy to love the season. Known for its haunted history, this small town throws the state’s biggest Halloween celebration—Deadweird. Every October, Deadwood transforms into a spooky playground, earning it the title of the best Halloween town in South Dakota.

Deadweird has been a tradition since 2006, and this year it takes over Deadwood on Friday, October 24, and Saturday, October 25, 2025. The fun kicks off Friday night with the Monster Ball at the Deadwood Mountain Grand Event Center. Picture a night filled with great live music, wild costumes, dancing, and plenty of chances to win door prizes—it’s a blast. Just a heads-up: it’s for guests 21 and over, and there’s a small cover charge.

Saturday brings the highlight—the Deadweird Costume Contest and party at the Historic Franklin Hotel. Hundreds show up decked out, competing for over $5,000 in cash and prizes. Whether you’re in it to win or just there to admire the creativity, the energy is contagious. It’s another 21+ event, so plan to enjoy the festivities into the evening.

Throughout the weekend, Deadwood’s bars, casinos, and saloons deck themselves out for the holiday, hosting lively parties and serving themed drinks. It’s the perfect place to see some jaw-dropping costumes, dance to good music, and soak up the festive atmosphere.

If haunted places are your thing, Deadwood won’t disappoint—especially this time of year. The Bullock Hotel is said to be haunted by its original owner, Seth Bullock. Nearby, the Adams House Museum has its share of ghostly tales, and the Historic Fairmont Hotel, once a brothel, is famous for its paranormal stories. These spots add an eerie edge to the Halloween fun.

Families have their own reasons to visit, too. On Halloween night, the town hosts KidWeird, a free, kid-friendly event with costume contests, games, and a haunted house, plus a Trunk or Treat at the Days of ’76 Event Complex. It’s a safe way for kids and families to join in the fun without missing out.

Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your visit:

• Hotels book up fast for the weekend—reservations well in advance are strongly recommended.
• Parking near downtown fills quickly; shuttles and taxis are good alternatives, and most venues are close enough to walk.
• Main Street closes at peak times for pedestrian safety, making it easy and fun to roam between events.
• Some venues limit masks and realistic weapon props, so check event rules before finalizing your costume.
• For extra chills, consider booking a haunted tour or ghost walk—several run all week, including spooky candlelit mine tours.

Deadwood’s mix of rich history, spooky stories, and festive spirit makes it one of South Dakota’s most thrilling Halloween destinations. Ready to join the fun? Visit the official Deadweird event website for the most up-to-date details and event registration. To explore more of the historic town and all places featured in this article, head over to the City of Deadwood’s official website. And when you’re ready to plan your full trip, don’t forget to use the Only In Your State itinerary planner to customize your perfect Deadwood adventure.