The Haunt: A Halloween hangout crafted by artists

Thu October 1st Open 11 AM–8 PM The Haunt mixes Halloween tradition, B-movies aesthetics, and San Francisco’s creative undead—for an event that’s part netherworld labyrinth and part laser-lit speakeasy, entirely crafted by human artists. Visitors are summoned to wander corridors and art installations, sit for tarot readings, and to dance and imbibe—all soundtracked by DJs curated by Lower Grand Radio, in our 6,000 sq ft performance space. This year’s theme is Techno-Fantasy. Teams of artists will handcraft an experience of warped reality: imagining futuristic worlds out of discarded electronics, salvaged materials, and DIY ingenuity. Costumes are encouraged (and there just might be some supplies provided to craft your own). Kids 12 and under are free, and encouraged to attend a family-friendly early show on Friday Oct 30th at 5pm. No unaccompanied minors allowed. ID required for purchase of alcoholic beverages. Costumes encouraged, but no full face coverings during check-in. All tickets include gallery admission, but no props or beverages allowed in the galleries. To purchase tickets, select your day and time window below → Evening show, recommended 13 and up. Early show, family-friendly. Includes free Halloween headwear workshop by SCRAP. Evening show, recommended 13 and up. Evening show, recommended 13 and up. Bat Witch Ghost presents The Haunt at YBCA, 2025. Photo by Jason Henry. Bat Witch Ghost presents The Haunt at YBCA, 2025. Photo by Jason Henry. Bat Witch Ghost presents The Haunt at YBCA, 2025. Photo by Jason Henry. Bat Witch Ghost presents The Haunt at YBCA, 2025. Photo by Jason Henry. Bat Witch Ghost presents The Haunt at YBCA, 2025. Photo by Jason Henry. Bat Witch Ghost is an arts organization building on the foundation of the American haunted house. Founded by our creative director Aaron Wojack, BWG unites artists, neighbors, and local businesses in collaborative creation, artistic stimulation, and neighborhood connection. Our mission is to foster the studio arts by inviting the public to experience art in a new way and to provide paid opportunities for artists and craftspeople. We use recycled and discarded materials whenever possible and exemplify a DIY approach to creativity and expression. Through a sustainable revenue model, we aim to become a lasting San Francisco tradition that celebrates the city’s creative spirit and love of costumed performance. Bat Witch Ghost demonstrates how community-driven art can be both financially viable and socially transformative, designing gathering spaces where creativity and community intersect. Learn more at https://batwitchghost.art The Haunt is supported in part by the Zellerbach Family Foundation and The Svane Family Foundation. YBCA programs are made possible in part by Bloomberg Philanthropies, Blue Shield Of California, Bob A. Ross Foundation, City and County of San Francisco, Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), Malia Simonds, Mayor Daniel Lurie, National Endowment for the Arts, Pisces Foundation, The Ron Conway Family, Salesforce, San Francisco Office of Economic and Workforce Development, Silicon Valley Community Foundation, The Svane Family Foundation, The William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, Yerba Buena Gardens Conservancy, Yerba Buena Partnership, and the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts Board of Directors and Members. Wednesday, October 7, 2026, 7 PM Co-presented by Creativity Explored & YBCA Wednesday, October 14, 2026, 5–8 PM August 7, 2026–January 3, 2027 Co-Presented by GaHee Park, Michael Vass & YBCA Saturdays, August 15–October 31, 2026, 2 PM