Del Ray Halloween Parade

Del Ray Halloween Parade

This is the 30th year of the Del Ray Halloween Parade, and USA Today has named it one of the 10 best Halloween parades in the country. It steps off at 2pm on Sunday, October 25, from Mount Vernon Avenue at E. Bellefonte Avenue and walks down to the Mount Vernon Rec Center field. It is free, and kids, pets and decorated strollers are all welcome to march.

At the end there is live music and awards on the rec center field. There is also a scavenger hunt with prizes. Most contests are free to enter but you have to check in. Stroller and wagon entries register from 1:00 to 1:30pm at Mount Vernon and Howell, and pet costume entries need to register by 1:30pm. There is also a new group and float contest this year, but nothing motorized is allowed. That rule is real, so no golf carts.

Parent Tips 💡

• ✓Get to the check-in early. Most contests check in at Mount Vernon and Howell Avenue starting at 1pm, and you must register by 1:30pm.
• ✓Bring a wagon. If you are entering a decorated wagon or stroller, you will want something to carry candy and layers on the way back.
• ✓No motorized anything. That includes motorized floats and mini cars, so pack a pull wagon.
• ✓Dress your dog in something simple. The pet contest check-in is crowded, and a long walk means the costume needs to stay put.
• ✓Plan the exit. The parade ends at the rec center field, so decide on a meeting point if you are walking back to your car.