Halloween falls on Saturday in 2015 and this has prompted Toms River Fire Company #1, the sponsor of the second largest Halloween parade in the world, to return the event to Halloween night. Since 2012, the parade had been held on the Saturday before Halloween. Organizers reported that turnout and participation dropped significantly when the parade was held the Saturday before Halloween, which is why they chose to move it back to October 31 for this year.
History of the Parade
The parade began as a fund raiser in 1919 and was initially called “Mardi Gras.” Even in its first year, it attracted thousands of spectators and included more than 100 participants. The event was so important to the town that city leaders moved trick-or-treat to October 30 each year so that children could enjoy both events. Although trick-or-treat will remain on October 31 this year, it is expected that many families will complete their door-to-door visits in time to get to the parade route.
The Parade
The 77th Annual Halloween Parade has everything from people walking in simple masks to fire-breathing floats. Registration for the parade is from 8 AM until 5 PM on October 31 and all registrations are free, although donations are not only accepted, they are welcome. The parade begins at the shopping center on the corner of Route 37 and Route 166, travels south on Main Street, turns left onto Washington Street, ending at the intersection of Washington Street and Hooper Avenue. All vehicles who participate in the parade must be decorated and pets must have proof of vaccination. Rain date for the parade is November 2. Parking is free, but spectators are advised to arrive early in order to get good viewing locations along the parade route.
Halloween Parade Challenge
The Jay and Linda Grunin Foundation and the Chamber of Commerce added something new to this year’s parade. The two organizations gave a $10,000 prize to a group who presented the best plan for their parade float. Toms River High School North Nautical Theater Company won the competition with their 3D TRopoly Board design. The school also receives a $5,000 materials budget and up to 160 hours of assistance from an artist community in the town. In addition, the foundation is donating an additional $5,000 to the artist community. Entries were required to design a float that could be built for $5,000 or less that explained why the city was the greatest place to work, live or visit.
If you are a Halloween lover, a trip to Toms River for the 77th Annual Halloween Parade must be on your bucket list. Enjoy the more than 6,000 entries in the parade and travel in style using a limousine or car service to eliminate the need to search for a good parking spot before the parade starts at 7 PM. Enjoy a smooth, comfortable ride to the parade with your friends and family, avoiding the hassle of parking, driving or fighting the crowds.
Sources:
Downtown Toms River
App.com