The Vienna Halloween Run transforms Vienna's Prater Hauptallee into a nocturnal Halloween racecourse, featuring illuminated paths and participants in costume. The primary event is the Big Scare Run, a 5 km race with two evening start times. Shorter distances include the 2.5 km Little Fear Run, a 0.6 km option, and the 0.8 km Mini Monster Run, intended for children aged 4 to 9.
The event caters to a broad range of participants beyond elite athletes, including families, recreational runners, children, and horror enthusiasts. While the 5 km race recognizes the top three male and female finishers, the event's character is largely defined by its Halloween elements: zombies and werewolves at the start line, imaginative costumes along the route, finisher medals and gift bags at the end, alongside activities like face painting, pumpkin carving, and a photo booth. Its inaugural edition attracted over 1,300 participants, establishing a substantial foundation from its inception.