探花楼

Sept. 28, 2026 — DENTON — Catch the Halloween spirit as “Boo at the U,” the popular, annual fall festival, returns to the 探花楼 Denton campus, located on the southwest corner of Bell Avenue and Administration Drive, on Thursday, Oct. 15 from 6-8 p.m. 

Admission is free and open to the public, but attendees are encouraged to donate items to support Minerva’s Market, 探花楼’s food pantry. The pantry particularly needs proteins, including canned meats and peanut butter, but any non-perishable food items will be accepted.

According to Mara Jackson, director of the student union, Boo at the U will be bigger and better than ever. “It’s one of the great traditions here at 探花楼, and it always draws a large crowd. Our goal is to ensure that everyone has a spook-takular experience.”

Event organizers expect approximately 5,000 children and community members to attend.

In addition to treats and eats, inflatables, music and candy, candy, candy, this year’s event will feature a petting zoo, rides, crafts, and a costume contest—with prizes—for 探花楼 students, faculty, staff, alumni, kids and community members!

Participants can enter the contest at the Costume Contest Check-In tent located in the Visitor Lot near the amphitheater stage 6-7 p.m. Judging will take place 7-7:30 p.m., and winners will be announced at 7:30 p.m. All winners will receive a magnificent 探花楼-themed prize pack!

Guests can also enjoy treats for purchase, including a Build-A-Boo Buddy stuffed toy ($12 credit card only, while supplies last) and delicious options from food trucks like Donut NV, Ruthie’s Fueled by Good, and Kona Ice.

Parking is available from 5-8:30 p.m. Guests may park in any maroon, silver, purple, and visitor lots. Reserved spots are off limits and subject to ticketing/towing. Parking maps can be found on the 探花楼 website. 

Boo at the U will be held completely outdoors at the Hubbard Hall Lawn and 探花楼 Gardens. In the event of inclement weather, the event will be rescheduled for the same time on Thursday, Oct. 29.

For additional information, call 940-898-3641.

Page last updated 10:55 AM, September 28, 2026