Haunted Hustle’s Spooky Beach Races Benefit Local Education Foundation

K. Cooper • September 20, 2026

Families can enjoy costume parades and nighttime beach races

Haunted Hustle returns to Gulf Shores.

Gulf Shores, Ala. — (OBA) —  Gulf Shores is reviving a popular coastal celebration featuring costumes, running, and community spirit. Residents and visitors are invited to wear their favorite Halloween outfits for an evening of entertainment. The festival features several new activities added to this year's official schedule. The gathering will take place at Gulf Place Town Green and Public Beach, 101 Gulf Shores Parkway.


The festivities return on Saturday, October 17. All proceeds from the evening will directly benefit the Dolphin Foundation for Education and Arts. Foundation representatives will be on-site selling fresh pizza and refreshments, including beer and wine for adults.


Holly Howell, City of Gulf Shores Fitness Coordinator, shared her excitement about the community event. “We are excited to once again host the Haunted Hustle,” said Holly Howell, City of Gulf Shores Fitness Coordinator. “This family-friendly event is great for all ages. We encourage everyone, no matter your fitness level, to come out and enjoy the night with us!”


Entertainment starts at 4 p.m., with a live DJ playing music and fun activities for youth. Several area businesses and civic organizations will also participate by hosting carnival games and handing out candy to attendees.


The celebration features three separate scheduled running and walking events:


  • Wicked Walk Costume Parade: This walking parade begins at 6 p.m. Participants may wear creative costumes and toss sweet treats to spectators along the route. Entry fees are $15 through October 16 and $20 on race day. Registered walkers receive a shirt and a goody bag.

  • Monster Dash Beach Fun Run: The fun run starts at 6:30 p.m. on the sand and along the coastal surf. Friendly ghouls will entertain runners along the beach course. Entry is $20 through October 16 and $25 on race day. Entrants receive a finisher medal, bag, and shirt.

  • Haunted Hustle 5K: The competitive 3.1-mile evening run starts at 7 p.m. under the night sky. Registration is $30 through September 30, $35 from October 1 through October 16, and $40 on race day. Runners receive a custom shirt and a goody bag.

Whether guests enter the runs, join the parade, or simply watch the action, everyone is invited to dress in costume. The entire community can share in a fun evening on the Town Green. More details, registration links, and packet pickup schedules are available at www.gulfshoresal.gov/Halloween.


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