Something spooky is coming to Hanksville!
Join us October 30–31, 2026, for S’mores, Stars & Scares, a two-day Halloween and dark-sky celebration filled with trick-or-treating, vendors, family activities, s’mores, astronomy and some of the most spectacular night skies in Utah.
What is S'mores, Stars & Scares?
S’mores, Stars & Scares is a family-friendly Halloween weekend combining small-town fun with the incredible dark skies surrounding Hanksville.
While festive fun like trick or treating, a Halloween carnival, vendors.costumes. & other activities will surely make S’mores, Stars & Scares memorable, the real “star” of the show will be the incredible night sky views.
Whether you are coming with young children, traveling through southern Utah or looking for a unique Halloween getaway, this weekend will offer plenty of ways to participate.
Costumes are encouraged, and visitors are welcome to join as many—or as few—activities as they would like.
ITINERARY
Friday, October 30: Stars, Space & Halloween Fun
Friday’s activities will introduce visitors to Hanksville, its businesses and the incredible landscape and night sky that make this area so special.
Saturday, October 31: Halloween in Hanksville
Saturday will bring a full day of vendors, costumes, trick-or-treating and community Halloween activities before we return to the stars that evening.
Things to Do Between Event Activities
S’mores, Stars & Scares is a great reason to make an entire weekend out of your visit to Hanksville.
During the day, consider exploring:
- Factory Butte
- Moonscape Overlook
- The Bentonite Hills
- Goblin Valley State Park
- Little Wild Horse Canyon
- Capitol Reef National Park
- Hog Springs
- Leprechaun Canyon
October generally offers more comfortable daytime temperatures than summer, but always check the weather before hiking or traveling on a dirt road.
Never enter a slot canyon when rain is possible, and do not drive on bentonite roads when they are wet.
If you only have a few free hours, Factory Butte and the surrounding badlands make a beautiful half-day adventure. Goblin Valley and Capitol Reef are better treated as longer outings.
Is S’mores, Stars & Scares Free?
The main S’mores, Stars & Scares event is free to attend.
Event registration will be used as an RSVP to help organizers estimate attendance, prepare supplies and communicate important updates. Registering does not mean you are purchasing an admission ticket.
Some individual activities may have their own costs. These could include:
- Food and merchandise from vendors
- PTA carnival tickets
- Meals and business specials
- Certain tours or reservation-based activities
Any separate fees or reservation requirements will be clearly listed in the final event schedule.
Presented by the Hanksville Community
S’mores, Stars & Scares is being organized with support from the Hanksville Business Coalition and participating community partners.
Local businesses can get involved by:
- Joining the business trick-or-treat trail
- Hosting an activity
- Offering a themed special
- Creating a photo location
- Becoming a vendor
- Donating supplies
- Sponsoring the event
- Helping with a booth
- Sharing event information
The goal is to create a celebration that brings visitors and residents together while supporting businesses throughout Hanksville.
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where is S’mores, Stars & Scares?
S’mores, Stars & Scares will take place Friday and Saturday, October 30–31, 2026, in Hanksville, Utah. Activities will be held at several locations throughout town. A complete schedule and map will be released before the event.
Is the event appropriate for children?
Yes! S’mores, Stars & Scares is being planned as a family-friendly event. Activities include trick-or-treating, a Halloween carnival, vendors, s’mores, stories, astronomy and guided stargazing. Children should remain with an adult during nighttime programs and near campfires.
Do I need to wear a costume?
Costumes are encouraged but not required. Choose a costume that allows you to walk safely and add warm layers underneath or over it. Temperatures may become cold after sunset.
What happens if the weather is cloudy or rainy?
Some activities, particularly guided stargazing and the outdoor movie, will depend on the weather. Organizers will share updates if an activity must be moved, adjusted or canceled. Indoor and daytime activities may continue as scheduled unless conditions make travel unsafe.
