TOMS RIVER, NJ – As the sun casts its last golden glow on the town of Toms River, a stirring of excitement rustles through the community. The evening of October 31st isn’t just a night of spooky festivities, it marks the return of the beloved annual Toms River Halloween Parade. A tradition since 1937, this parade is not only the cornerstone of community camaraderie but holds the title as the second largest Halloween parade in the world.
The parade has its roots deep in community spirit and the love for Halloween. Over the decades, it has grown in scale and popularity, drawing participants and spectators from near and far. It’s not just a parade; it’s a celebration of creativity, community, and the charm of Halloween.
Tonight, the parade will commence sharply at 7:00 PM, embarking from the Toms River Shopping Centre and winding its way down Main Street before concluding at Washington Street. It’s a route that has showcased the imaginative spirit of Toms River year after year, under the twinkling stars.
Participants have spent weeks, if not months, preparing their costumes, floats, and routines to dazzle the spectators lining the streets. The rules are simple yet crucial for ensuring a smooth parade experience: no political statements, no interference with the flow of the parade, and most importantly, a demonstration of good sportsmanship and respect for fellow participants and spectators.
The Toms River Halloween Parade is more than a mere procession of costumes and floats; it’s a living testament to the town’s vibrant community spirit and the universal joy of Halloween. As dusk settles and the parade begins its journey through the heart of Toms River, it’s not just the ghosts and ghouls that come alive, but the heart of a tradition that beats strongly within every participant and spectator, echoing the joyful shrieks and laughter that resonate through the crisp autumn night.