‘Ghosts of Summer’ festival to bring Halloween fun to Portland in August
Halloween arrives early in Portland this week as the “Ghosts of Summer” returns for two nights of spooky…
Halloween arrives early in Portland this week as the “Ghosts of Summer” returns for two nights of spooky entertainment, local artists, and Halloween-themed attractions.
The festival takes place from 6 to 11:30 p.m. Aug. 7-8 at The Redd in Southeast Portland. Organizers say the event features more than 30,000 square feet of Halloween experiences designed to celebrate the season while showcasing local makers and performers.
Visitors can browse more than 70 artists, makers and vendors, along with live entertainment, drag performances, haunted attractions, costume contests, escape rooms, workshops and food and drinks from local businesses.
According to reporting by The Oregonian, Portland theater-makers Lilo Alfaro and Matthew Capurro launched Ghosts of Summer after the pandemic to give local artists an opportunity to benefit from growing excitement around Halloween before large retailers dominate the season.
Speaking with The Oregonian, Alfaro said the goal was to redirect some of the early Halloween enthusiasm toward Portland’s creative community rather than national chains.
What’s new at the “Ghosts of Summer” festival in 2026?
New this year are two escape rooms and a partnership with Wildwood: Follow the Crows, an interactive scavenger hunt inspired by LAIKA’s upcoming stop-motion film Wildwood.
The festival will also feature two entertainment stages, a Raven’s Manor pop-up bar, a mini haunted house and educational workshops.
Alfaro also told The Oregonian that Portland’s appreciation for spooky folklore and cryptid culture makes it a natural home for the event. She said she hopes visitors discover local artists, performers and businesses they will continue to support throughout the Halloween season.
Organizers recommend the event for ages 13 and older, although they leave attendance up to parents’ discretion.
If you go
When: 6-11:30 p.m. Aug. 7-8
Where: The Redd, 831 S.E. Salmon St., Portland
Tickets: $13 for one day or $23 for a weekend pass
More information: ghostsofsummerpdx.com
