Halloween Town – Ilkeston's Spooktacular Celebration

Ilkeston's Journey to Becoming Halloween Town Capital of the UK

The Trick-or-Treat Trail: A Community Event

Ilkeston Town is on a quest to be crowned the Halloween Town capital of the UK, preparing to unveil a grand spectacle filled with chills, thrills, and a plentiful supply of sweets.

About the Trick-or-Treat Trail

A community-led initiative that has won the affection of the locals by turning Ilkeston town into a spooky sanctuary for children and families.

Since its invasion in 2019, the Trail has grown into a large-scale event, attracting hundreds of children, from cute toddlers to older kids, all dressed in eerie costumes.

This event’s enthusiasm and community spirit made it an excellent representation of Ilkeston’s tight-knit community.

2023 was BIG

As a result The 2023 edition was more significant and featured a spooktacular display, featuring an impressive roster of 90 participating shops and businesses.

 The event spans traditional stores and cosy cafes to surprising participants like Specsavers and a funeral parlour, reflecting the event’s diversity and inclusivity.

A Ghostbusters hearse and a Halloween-themed Trentbarton bus will also contribute to the town’s festive spirit.

Town Hall Mayor of Halloween Town.

Even the Ilkeston town hall and its staff are also getting into the spirit. Deputy Mayor Kate Fennelly, dressed in costume, will hand out “toffees” to excited trick-or-treaters, a charming act endorsed by her fellow councillors.

Light Night – As Churches protection flows through

In addition, Ministers from Ilkeston Churches walked among them to keep the devil at bay, offer a light to the lost, and help those who wish to remember lost ones.

Overall The Trick-or-Treat Trail promises a spine-tingling adventure, 

Ilkeston Halloween town, Costume and kids on trick or treat trail. ecto2

Erewash Borough Council’s Deputy Leader Becca Everett, who is the lead member for community engagement, said: "The Halloween Town trail is a fantastic family event. The whole thing is a terrific example of local people showing community spirit and kindness. And all credit to Joe – who has become a great champion for Ilkeston shops and businesses in the town.”

Ilkeston Halloween town, Costume and kids on trick or treat trail. Town Hall Zombies and Decorations Ghost Train

Ilkeston’s ambition to be the UK’s Halloween capital is a testament to the town’s festive spirit and a reflection of the unity and enthusiasm that define its community. As the Trick-or-Treat Trail weaves through the town’s streets, We invite everyone to join in the eerie fun and make Halloween memories that will linger like friendly ghosts.

How to Participate in Halloween Town Events

Trick-or-treat trail (Thursday, October 31) will start at 3.30pm at the top of Nottingham Road, on one side of Ilkeston, and will end up at Heanor Road on the other. 

The event will last until around 5pm – or earlier, depending on if the sweets have run out.

A complete list and a map showing the stores taking part can be viewed on Ilkeston’s Independent Shops Facebook page here.

Key Attractions in Halloween Town

Explore the Gallery from Spooks and Pumpkins to Jack and Skeletons. Ghosts to demons, Witches to Zombies. Halloween invade Ilkeston in style

Erewash Museum

The Haunted Museum is enveloped in history, where specters are brought to life.

Ilkeston Town Hall

Meet the Mayor of Halloween Town with Ghouls, Spiders, Zombies and more