Downtown Hickory’s Monster Mash is scheduled for Friday, October 23, 2026, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Union Square.
Hosted by the Hickory Downtown Development Association, the event combines trick-or-treating at participating downtown businesses with costume-contest activities on Union Square.
Here is the published schedule and what families should know before heading downtown.
Monster Mash Quick Facts
- Date: Friday, October 23, 2026
- Event hours: 4:00–7:00 p.m.
- Location: Union Square in Downtown Hickory
- Trick-or-treating: 4:00–5:30 p.m.
- Costume-contest registration: 4:00–5:30 p.m.
- Costume contest: 5:30–6:30 p.m.
- Host: Hickory Downtown Development Association
Because schedules and operating details can change, check the official HDDA event page before leaving home.
Trick-or-Treating in Downtown Hickory
From 4:00 to 5:30 p.m., participating downtown businesses will hand out candy during Trick-or-Treat on the Streets.
The official event listing does not identify every participating business, so families should follow event signage and onsite directions rather than assuming every downtown storefront is participating.
Adults should accompany children, keep groups together and use extra care around downtown traffic and street crossings.
Costume-Contest Registration
Costume-contest registration is scheduled from 4:00 to 5:30 p.m. at the HDDA table on Union Square.
Families who want to participate should arrive with enough time to park, walk to Union Square and complete registration before it closes.
The costume contest is scheduled from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
The published contest groupings and awards are:
Ages 0–6
- Cutest Costume
- Most Creative Costume
Ages 7–12
- Spookiest Costume
- Most Creative Costume
Families and Groups
- Best Group Costume
- Most Creative Theme
Follow the organizer’s onsite instructions for participation and judging. Do not assume additional rules or eligibility requirements beyond what HDDA publishes.
Planning Your Visit
A few simple steps can make the afternoon easier:
- Check the official event page for last-minute schedule or weather updates.
- Allow time to park and walk to Union Square.
- Arrive before 5:30 p.m. if you plan to register for the costume contest.
- Keep children supervised while moving between participating businesses.
- Bring a bag or container for candy.
- Follow instructions from event staff and participating businesses.
Parking arrangements, road closures and weather contingencies were not included in the published event details at the time of this guide. Use current downtown signage and the organizer’s updates when you arrive.
Make an Afternoon of Downtown Hickory
Monster Mash is also an opportunity to spend time in Downtown Hickory and support local shops, restaurants and businesses.
Some families may choose to arrive early for a meal or stay downtown afterward. Check individual business hours and availability before making plans.
Osborne Real Estate Group is sharing this guide as a local resource and is not the event organizer or sponsor.
Follow the Official Updates
Monster Mash is currently scheduled for Friday, October 23, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Union Square.
Before heading out, confirm the final schedule through the Hickory Downtown Development Association.
Osborne Real Estate Group publishes practical guides to living in and exploring Hickory and the greater Catawba Valley. Explore more of our local resources or contact our team if a move within the Hickory area is part of your plans.
