Halloween decorating has officially become a competitive sport in Niagara Falls.
The City's free Spooky Awards contest is back for 2026, inviting residents and businesses to turn their properties into elaborate Halloween displays and compete for prizes.
Last year a record 69 properties took part, and the City hopes even more sign up this time, according to a City of Niagara Falls media release.
How to enter
Registration opened Thursday, October 1, and entries close Sunday, October 18, at 10 p.m. There is no cost to enter.
Nine awards will be handed out across three categories: Judges' Favourite, Best Effects and People's Choice. Prizes go to first, second and third place in each category.
First-place winners receive a Spooky Awards trophy and a commemorative lawn sign, while second- and third-place finishers get a lawn sign.
Tour the displays
Even residents who don't decorate can take part. From Friday, October 23 to Sunday, October 25, the City encourages people to follow the Spooky Map and tour participating properties across Niagara Falls.
Displays will be lit each of those nights from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Public voting for the People's Choice Award runs October 23 to 25, with a voting link posted at niagarafalls.ca/spooky. Complete rules, registration details and the Spooky Map are also available on that page.
A Facebook event page for the 2026 Spooky Awards will feature photos and videos of the displays and let residents follow the competition.
Anyone with questions can contact Michelle Nicholls, community recreation coordinator for special events with the City of Niagara Falls, at mnicholls@niagarafalls.ca.
