Halloween is one of the oldest and most popular holidays in the United States. It is a time of year when people dress up in costumes, go to parties, and—most importantly—eat candy! Halloween has its roots in the Celtic festival of Samhain. This was a time when people would light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off evil spirits. The tradition was brought to America by Irish and Scottish immigrants in the 19th century. Nowadays, Halloween is a major commercial holiday, with people spending billions of dollars on decorations, costumes, and candy. Nevertheless, it remains a popular time of year for people of all ages. So, if you’re looking for something fun to do this Halloween, read on for a list of Halloween parades taking place across the United States!
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Frightfully Fun! Don’t Miss These 10 Epic Halloween Parades Across America
Fall is in the air, and with it comes the spooky season! Halloween is a time for costumes, candy, and, of course, parades. The United States has a rich tradition of Halloween parades, with celebrations ranging from family-friendly fun to outrageous creativity. In this blog, we’re counting down the top 10 Halloween parades in the USA, so you can join in the spooky festivities!
1. Village Halloween Parade, New York City
Calling all costumed creatures and spooky spectators! No list of Top 10 Halloween Parades in the USA is complete without the legendary Village Halloween Parade in New York City. Held annually on Halloween night in Greenwich Village, this isn’t your average parade. With roots in the city’s vibrant queer community, it’s a massive, free-spirited celebration of all things Halloween. Think 50,000 costumed participants, from elaborately crafted characters to playful pop culture references, alongside over 2 million cheering spectators lining the streets.
Giant, whimsical puppets, a hallmark of the parade, are animated by hundreds of volunteers, bringing the chosen theme to life in a truly awe-inspiring way. Marching bands add to the lively atmosphere, while costumed floats representing everything from local businesses to Broadway shows weave through the throngs. Whether you’re a seasoned parade-goer or a first-timer, the energy, creativity, and sheer spectacle of the Village Halloween Parade is an unforgettable New York City experience.
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2. Krewe of Boo!, New Orleans
3. Anoka Halloween, Anoka, Minnesota
With roots in the city’s artistic community, the parade celebrates outrageous creativity and self-expression. Expect to see everything from Broadway-caliber floats and marching bands to hilarious pop culture parodies and elaborately costumed individuals. Whether you’re a die-hard horror fan or a whimsical fairy tale character, the 34th Street Parade welcomes all to join the spooky soiree and unleash your inner ghoul!
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5. Tom Turkey Trot, Los Angeles
6. West Hollywood Halloween Carnaval, West Hollywood, California
7. Northampton Halloween Parade, Northampton, Massachusetts
8. SpiritLandia—Day of the Dead River Parade, San Antonio
This unique parade celebrates the Day of the Dead, a Mexican holiday that honors deceased loved ones. The parade features floats, decorated boats, and people in traditional Day of the Dead costumes. Craving a unique Halloween experience that celebrates life and loved ones? Look no further than San Antonio’s vibrant SpiritLandia festivities, culminating in the mesmerizing Day of the Dead River Parade. Held on the Friday closest to October 27th, this unforgettable spectacle features 25 elaborately decorated barges traversing the iconic River Walk.
Witness dazzling altars honoring departed spirits, captivating costumes inspired by the sugar skull figure “Catrina,” and lively music that fills the air. Don’t miss the chance to snag a spot along the riverbank and immerse yourself in this blend of cultural tradition and artistic expression. Remember, tickets are required and sell out fast, so grab yours and prepare for a hauntingly beautiful night in San Antonio!
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9. Northalsted Halloween Parade, Chicago
This is one of the biggest Halloween parades in the Midwest. It takes place in the Northalsted neighborhood, which is known for its large LGBTQ+ population. The parade is a celebration of diversity and creativity. Chicago’s Northalsted Halloween Parade throws a spellbinding spectacle that’s earned its place among the top ten in the US. This free-to-watch event explodes with creativity, with fantastical floats, fire performers, and energetic marching bands weaving through the vibrant Northalsted neighborhood.
Spectators of all ages are treated to a costume contest extravaganza, with over $4,000 in prizes awarded across categories like “Character,” “Scary,” and “Youth.” Don’t miss the chance to witness the Grand Marshal leading the costumed chaos, followed by an after-party that keeps the spooky spirit alive with live music and dancing. Whether you’re a die-hard Halloween enthusiast or simply seeking a unique Chicago experience, the Northalsted Halloween Parade guarantees a night of unforgettable thrills and chills.
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10. Sleepy Hollow Halloween Parade, Sleepy Hollow, New York
This parade takes place in the town that inspired Washington Irving’s classic story, “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.” The parade features floats, marching bands, and costumed characters from the story. Immerse yourself in the legendary town that inspired Washington Irving’s “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” at the annual Tarrytown Halloween Parade. Held on the last Saturday of October, this spooky spectacular sees the streets come alive with a vibrant procession of costumed characters, illuminated floats, and marching bands.
Arriving a little early allows you to snag a prime spot along the parade route, which winds through the heart of Tarrytown, just a stone’s throw from Sleepy Hollow. Keep your eyes peeled for the iconic Headless Horseman, who makes a thrilling appearance each year, sending shivers down spines and adding an extra dose of Halloween magic to this cherished Hudson Valley tradition. Don’t forget to wear your most creative costume; there are prizes awarded for the best get-ups, making the Sleepy Hollow Halloween Parade a delightful mix of spooky entertainment, community spirit, and a touch of friendly competition.
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FAQs ON Top 10 Halloween Parades in the USA
Q. What is the biggest Halloween parade in the United States?
In its 44th year, the Village Halloween Parade in New York City is one of the biggest in the country. The mile-long event takes over Lower Manhattan every year.
Q. Where in the US is Halloween celebrated the most?
Salem’s Haunted Happenings purports to be the biggest Halloween celebration in the world, with parties, parades, tours, trick-or-treating, and special events all October long. Anyone interested in magic or witchcraft will have a blast in Salem around Halloween time.
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Q. What is the most famous Halloween festival?
The most popular event is the Official Salem Witches’ Halloween Ball. Hundreds of costumed patrons flock to Salem as fires are burned on hilltops, while witches gather to cast spells for the new year and to honor the dead during Samhain (the ancient name for “Halloween”).
Q. What city does Halloween best?
Of course, New York City has made it to the top of the rankings. Why? Because it has one of the biggest Halloween parades in the world, with more than 2 million participants in creative costumes centered on a different theme each year.
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Q. Where is Halloween Town in the USA?
Head to St. Helens! Referred to by some as Halloween, USA, this charming small town is where most of the Disney Channel movie Halloweentown was originally filmed. Visit the iconic town square from the movie, attend parades, participate in costume contests, and view supernatural exhibits for the perfect October getaway.
Q. What is the world’s largest Halloween festival?
Europe’s biggest Halloween festival, Derry Halloween, held within the walled Northern Irish city, melds Halloween festivities with Samhain rituals.
Conclusion: The final words
In conclusion, Halloween parades are a fun and festive way to celebrate the spooky season. From the massive extravaganzas of New York City’s Village Halloween Parade to the community-oriented celebrations in small towns across the country, there’s a Halloween parade out there for everyone. Whether you’re interested in seeing giant puppets, elaborate floats, or just a sea of creative costumes, you’re sure to find a parade that will entertain and delight. So grab your costume, gather your friends and family, and head out to celebrate Halloween with a bang! With so many parades to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect one to create lasting Halloween memories.
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