Toms River gears up for delayed trick-or-treating after storm passes
TOMS RIVER, N.J. – With the nor’easter now behind us, families in Toms River are preparing for a postponed night of Halloween trick-or-treating set for Saturday, November 1.
Mayor Daniel T. Rodrick confirmed that the decision to delay the festivities helped keep residents safe during Thursday’s severe weather.
The annual Toms River Halloween parade is scheduled for tonight. That event is not run by the township, but by the Toms River Fire Department. Toms River has traditionally held trick-or-treat the day before the parade, so families can enjoy both events. This year, high winds, coastal flooding, and rain were the deciding factors in changing trick-or-treat until Saturday.
The town’s iconic Halloween Parade went forward Friday night as scheduled, drawing large crowds despite the damp conditions.
Key Points
- The nor’easter that forced a Halloween delay has passed, clearing the way for trick-or-treating on Saturday, November 1.
- Toms River’s annual Halloween Parade proceeded Friday night despite lingering wet weather.
- Mayor Rodrick says safety and community tradition guided the town’s decisions.
Families prepare for a belated Halloween
After a night of rain and gusty winds, residents were greeted with calmer skies Friday as cleanup crews cleared debris across town.
On social media, many parents welcomed the extra day to get costumes and decorations ready, while local businesses restocked candy in anticipation of a busy weekend and for the day to be celebrated on a weekend night instead of a school night.
Mayor Rodrick said the decision to move trick-or-treating was validated by Thursday’s storm conditions, which brought flooding and wind gusts topping 40 mph in some areas.
“Safety always comes first,” he said. “Now, we can celebrate Halloween the way it’s meant to be—together and without worry.”
Parade draws crowds despite wet streets
Toms River’s famed Halloween Parade—one of the largest of its kind—will go on as planned Friday night, featuring floats, marching bands, and costumed residents filling downtown streets.
Officials are reminding residents that trick-or-treating will begin Saturday afternoon and continue through the evening, encouraging motorists to drive cautiously and residents to keep walkways well lit as families take to the neighborhoods under clear skies.