Hundreds of ‘Witches’ to Converge Upon this Small Indiana Town this October

First Day of October Means Halloween Countdown

It's fall, y'all! Today is the first day of October and that means thirty sleeps until Halloween! Even though the temperature is climbing to 90 degrees, the jack-o-lantern sweatshirt came out to celebrate.

Spooky season has officially arrived, even if it feels more like the 4th of July. Costumes were ordered yesterday, and the family theme this year is “cobs and robbers.” Out of all the years of costumes, a favorite memory remains the time mom and daughter dressed as the witches from The Wizard of Oz. That was long before the Wicked movie came out, but I think we captured Glenda and Elphaba's sister pretty accurately. I mean, she had the ruby slippers before someone dropped a house on her, not naming names.

The 2024 movie Wicked went on to achieve major success, grossing more than $753 million worldwide and setting records for a musical film adaptation. Now, that very story is inspiring a popular Halloween tradition in Southern Indiana.

5th Annual Witches on Bikes Event in Vincennes, Indiana

Fans of witches (good or wicked) are invited to take part in the 5th annual Witches on Bikes event in Vincennes. On Saturday, October 25 at 2:00 PM, the public is encouraged to dress as a favorite witch, warlock, or even a Wizard of Oz or Wicked character, and ride through the streets of the Emerald City, errr I mean, Vincennes.

How Witches on Bikes Got Started

The idea came from Regina Blinn, who saw another community host a witches’ ride. The first year was purely for fun. Thirty women rode through town, tossed candy, and returned to the park for snacks and games.

By the second year, it became a fundraiser. With growing interest, donations were given to the breast care center at Good Samaritan Hospital to help uninsured women cover mammogram costs. Participation doubled to about sixty riders.

Last year, the event grew to more than 200 riders from across the globe, raising $21,510 for GSH Breast Care Center, VPRD, and 1st City Sunrise.

This year, registrations have already been pouring in from the area.

Why These Charities Were Chosen

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, so the breast care center was a natural choice. Many women skip important screenings due to cost, and the event helps cover those expenses. The parks department was added to encourage healthy activities for kids and families.

What to Expect on the Ride

The ride navigates through Vincennes on low-volume roads, starting and ending at the park shelter house. It covers approximately 10 flat miles.  Dress up as your favorite Witch (or Warlock) and/or character from WICKED, grab a bike and some candy and come prepared to have a wicked good time!

Date: Saturday, October 25, 2025
Time: Check-In at 1PM | Ride Starts at 2PM
Location Gregg Park Open Shelter House in Vincennes, Indiana
Address: 2204 Washington Ave. Vincennes, IN 47591
Price: $30 before 10/10 | $35 after 10/10

Prizes are handed out for categories like:

• Oldest witch
• Furthest traveled witch
• Best cackle
• Youngest witch
• Best costume or decorated bike

In 2023, the “furthest witch” traveled from France and pulled her daughter in a cart. Her little one ended up winning the youngest witch award.

How to Register

Registration is open thru October 17 at midnight. To be guaranteed an event shirt you must register by October 10. Registration is $30.00 through 10/10 at 11:59 PM EDT and $35.00 after that. Register here. 

Not Just Bikes

The first year only bicycles were allowed, including tandems, tricycles, and bikes with kid seats. By the second year, organizers decided to allow golf carts too. Last year, several showed up, most driven by older witches who still wanted to join the fun.

Tips for a Great Ride

• Check the tires and brakes on your bike.
• Make sure your hat is securely tied so it doesn’t blow away or distract you.
• Avoid loose clothing or accessories that could get caught in your chain, pedals, or spokes.
• If you’re bringing candy, use a bike basket to make tossing easier.
• Golf carts are welcome but must be city-approved/registered with proper signs and flags. Don’t forget to decorate them!

New This Year - a Broom Workshop

For those would like to make a magic broom for the event or just want to get into the Halloween 'spirit' make plans to attend the *adults only* broom workshop. Create your own enchanted broom with magical embellishments. Open to ages 16 and up.
Pre-registration required by calling 812-882-4316. Parking is limited.

Event: Witches Broom Workshop
Date: October 5th
Time: 1 PM – 3 PM
Location: Ouabache Trails Park – Nature Center

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