Bowling Green, Kentucky, October 16, 2025
News Summary
The Scare on the Square event is returning to downtown Bowling Green, Kentucky, featuring trick-or-treating, inflatable attractions, and a new kids’ book drive benefiting local schools. Scheduled for October 25, the event will also include Halloween festivities, live music, and a costume contest judged by WKU’s mascot. Community members are encouraged to support local businesses and participate in fall celebrations, including upcoming Harvest Fest and Day of the Dead events.
Bowling Green’s Scare on the Square Returns with New Kids’ Book Drive
The annual Scare on the Square event is back in downtown Bowling Green, Kentucky. This popular community event will take place at Fountain Square Park on October 25 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Thousands of children are expected to participate in trick-or-treating and an array of fun activities designed for families.
This year, the event introduces a kids’ book drive that aims to benefit local elementary schools. Justine Hester, an Eagle Scout, is leading the book drive as part of her project in partnership with Toys for Tots. The community is encouraged to donate gently used or new children’s books that are suitable for elementary school-aged children.
In addition to the book drive, attendees can enjoy other Halloween festivities at Scare on the Square. The event will include a live DJ providing music and a special zombie dance for participants. The local Bowling Green Police and Fire Departments will also be present to distribute candy to the children.
Children and families can look forward to inflatable attractions, music, and a costume contest that will be judged by the WKU mascot, Big Red. Scare on the Square is part of a broader series of fall festivities scheduled for downtown Bowling Green, including the Harvest Fest and Day of the Dead celebrations.
The Harvest Fest is set to occur on October 18 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. It will feature a fiesta theme with over a dozen food trucks and live entertainment for all to enjoy. The events aim to foster community spirit and bring residents together through shared experiences.
In recent months, downtown Bowling Green has seen a growth in local businesses, with eight new establishments opening recently. The success of local events like Scare on the Square and Harvest Fest has created new business opportunities and increased community engagement. With its charming atmosphere, downtown Bowling Green is often described as the city’s heartbeat, showcasing its unique personality and culture.
Community members are encouraged to shop local and support downtown businesses and events. This emphasis on local engagement aligns with the overall goals of fostering a vibrant and connected community in Bowling Green.
FAQs
When is the Scare on the Square event occurring?
The Scare on the Square event will take place at Fountain Square Park on October 25 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
What new initiative is being introduced this year?
This year, a kids’ book drive is being introduced to benefit local elementary schools.
Who is leading the kids’ book drive?
Justine Hester, an Eagle Scout, is leading the book drive as part of her project in partnership with Toys for Tots.
What are some activities planned for the event?
Activities include trick-or-treating, inflatables, music provided by a live DJ, a zombie dance, and a costume contest judged by WKU mascot, Big Red.
What other events are part of the fall festivities?
Other fall festivities include the Harvest Fest on October 18 featuring a fiesta theme and the Day of the Dead celebrations.
Key Features of Scare on the Square
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date | October 25 |
| Time | 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. |
| Location | Fountain Square Park |
| Activities | Trick-or-treating, inflatables, music, zombie dance, costume contest |
| Special Initiative | Kids’ book drive for local elementary schools |
| Producer of Book Drive | Justine Hester, Eagle Scout |
| Other Events | Harvest Fest, Day of the Dead |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- WNKY: Bowling Green Getting Ready for Scare on the Square
- Wikipedia: Halloween
- WBKO: Scare on the Square Held Downtown Bowling Green
- Google Search: community events Bowling Green
- WNKY: SoKY Speak – Scare on the Square
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Community Event
- WNKY: Getting Excited for Fall Events in Downtown Bowling Green



