FAQs
Who can enter the Halloween Contest?
1
Neighbors within the participating Park Slope contest area are welcome to enter, see map at the bottom of the page. Whether you go all-out or keep things simple, we’d love to have you join the fun!
How do I enter my house?
Click the Join the Fun button and fill out the registration form with your address and a little sneak peek at how you’re planning to decorate.
2
When is the deadline to enter?
Registration closes Sunday, October 11, 2026, giving everyone plenty of time to finish those spooky details before judging begins.
3
How does community voting work?
4
Participating homes will receive a unique house number and QR code. Neighbors can scan the QR code while walking the neighborhood or find the house on our interactive map and cast their vote online.
When does voting begin?
Community voting opens Sunday, October 17, 2026.
5
Who chooses the winners?
There are two parts to the fun! Local business sponsors serve as our anonymous official judges, while neighbors get to have their say through the Community Popular Vote.
6
What can I win?
We’ll recognize 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Place Overall, along with specialty awards including Scariest House, Most Creative, Funniest House, Best Lighting & Effects, Best Classic Halloween, Best Block Spirit, Neighborhood Favorite, and 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Place for our Little Monsters!
And, of course, there are prizes! 🎃🏆 Our amazing local sponsors donate prizes for our winners, which may include gift cards to neighborhood businesses, local services, special goodies, and other Halloween surprises. So along with bragging rights, you’ll get to enjoy a little something from the Park Slope businesses that help make our community so special.
7
Is there a category just for kids?
8
Yes! Our Kids Division is specifically for displays decorated by our younger Halloween enthusiasts, with 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Place awards. Adult help with setup and safety is welcome.
Not at all! This contest is about creativity, Halloween spirit, and bringing the neighborhood together. Handmade, funny, clever, classic, spooky, simple—we want to see it all.
Do I have to spend a lot of money or have an elaborate display to participate?
9
When will the winners be announced?
10
Winners will be announced Thursday, October 25, 2026, so everyone can enjoy the winning displays before Halloween weekend.
Why is it called the 12th Street Halloween Contest?
11
The tradition began right here in 2008, when neighbors Dottie and Mary, who shared a love of Halloween, decided to get the neighborhood involved by starting a Halloween decorating contest. Read more on our History page!
I own a local business. Can I get involved?
12
Absolutely! Local businesses can participate as sponsors, donate prizes, and help judge the contest. Visit our Sponsors page to learn more.
Still have a question?
13
Reach out! We want participating in the 12th Street Halloween Contest to be easy, welcoming, and—most importantly—fun. 👻. Click that Contact link below to send us an email.
Official 2026 Contest Area for Participants
