Spooky scheduling: How MLS ensures fans, players don't have horror Halloween

MLS has adjusted its schedule for Halloween to accommodate players and fans' festivities. When planning the 2026 regular-season schedule, the league consulted its clubs about whether to hold games earlier in the day or even on Sunday to allow for Halloween celebrations. As a result, only one match will start at the usual 7:30 p.m. time, with the Colorado Rapids facing the Chicago Fire in Denver during prime trick-or-treating hours.

The majority of matches will take place earlier, with eight games kicking off at 1 p.m. or 2 p.m. on Saturday, and an additional six games scheduled for Sunday. New York City FC is among the teams with a 2 p.m. start, giving players like Keaton Parks more time to prepare for Halloween. Nashville SC has opted for a Sunday match against Red Bull New York, allowing goalkeeper Brian Schwake to enjoy trick-or-treating with his son.