There’s a reason why the Great Pumpkin Walk has endured over the years. It’s fun, first of all. Plus, it gives kids a chance to wear their Halloween costumes for the first time. And, of course, there’s the candy and the crafts, the puppet show and the petting zoo. And that’s just the free stuff. Because this family-friendly afternoon has take-it-up-a-notch ticketed activities as well.

Presented annually by Downtown Bellefontaine and sponsored by Small Nation, the 2026 Great Pumpkin Walk starts at noon this Saturday, Oct. 10, and goes until 4 p.m. During that time, participants can trick-or-treat at the many shops and restaurants, work on craft projects and watch the puppet show.

“The Great Pumpkin Walk is a family-friendly way to celebrate both Halloween and our great downtown,” Olivia Covey, event coordinator, said. “It features free activities in addition to the ticketed ones, making sure this has something for everyone.”

New this year is a chance to pet animals from En Gedi Ridge Zoo, including a zebra and a de-skunked skunk. Truesdale Farms will add mini highland cows to the makeshift zoo. With the purchase of a passport, though, you can enjoy several ticketed activities as well. A passport covers face painting, inflatables, a candy apple bar and a chance to paint your own pumpkin to take home.

Another staple of the event takes place at the Photo Booth on Main Street, where photographer Susie Jarvis will, once again, offer a chance to get images of kids and families in their costumes … or not.

This year’s photo shoot goes from 12 noon to 2 p.m. Tickets are $15 in advance or $20 at the door. Price includes your portrait sitting fee and one digital image, plus take-home treats and access to several selfie stations throughout the studio.

Calling it Glitch or Treat, Jarvis invites you to step into a glowing game world under pixelated neon lights. You can find out more or book your photo shoot at photoboothbtown.com or visit her Facebook page, The Photo Booth.

With the current forecast indicating an ideal fall day, organizers have put a lot of work into making this year’s Great Pumpkin Walk a great way to get some fresh air with your family. And it finishes up before the Ohio State Buckeyes game!

According to the event Facebook page, “Whether it’s your first visit or a family tradition you’ve enjoyed for years, the Great Pumpkin Walk is the perfect way to experience the charm of Downtown Bellefontaine while celebrating all things fall.”

The downtown traffic footprint will be similar to Pineapple Palooza with Main Street, Columbus Avenue, Court Avenue and Chillicothe closed. Parking is available behind Main Street Marketplace or in any city lot.