Edwardsville Halloween Parade 2024

Edwardsville Halloween Parade 2024 is set to be one of the most exciting community events of the year, bringing families, residents, and visitors together to enjoy creative floats, music, costumes, and festive fun. Organized by the Edwardsville/Glen Carbon Chamber of Commerce, this long-standing tradition has entertained locals for over a century.

Whether you’re participating or spectating, here’s everything you need to know about this year’s celebration.

Edwardsville Halloween Parade Overview

Event Name: Edwardsville Halloween Parade 2024
Date: Thursday, October 31, 2024
Time: Parade starts at 6:30 PM
Location: Parade begins at Lincoln Middle School parking lot (Schwarz & West Streets) and travels along St. Louis, Vandalia, and North Main Streets, ending at High StreetEdwardsville ChamberCity of Edwardsville.
Entry Fee: Free for spectators; registration required for participants.

The parade is not just about Halloween; it celebrates community spirit with floats and performances by local schools, businesses, and organizations, making it a must-attend event.

It encourages residents to showcase their creativity and talents, fostering a deeper connection among community members.

The event also offers an opportunity for local businesses to engage with the public and promote themselves through participation, adding vibrancy to Edwardsville’s downtown area.

Edwardsville Halloween Parade Schedule and Activities

1. Pre-Parade Setup and Tips

Arriving early for the Edwardsville Halloween Parade 2024 is highly recommended, as thousands of spectators are expected to attend. Prime viewing spots, especially near Main Street and Vandalia Street, fill up quickly, so arriving ahead of time ensures a great view of the floats and performances.

Accessibility has also been prioritized. Handicap parking will be available at Jerry’s Tire Sales lot, making it easier for those with mobility needs.

For additional comfort, Newsong Fellowship (201 St. Louis Street) will serve as a warming center from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM, providing restrooms and hot chocolate to keep attendees warm.

2. Parade Procession

The parade procession kicks off at 6:30 PM sharp on Thursday, October 31, 2024, from the Lincoln Middle School parking lot. From there, it follows St. Louis Street, turns onto Vandalia Street, and continues along North Main Street, concluding on High Street.

Spectators can line the entire route, with popular viewing areas along Main Street where the excitement is at its peak.

The parade route not only showcases the vibrant Halloween atmosphere but also provides opportunities for downtown businesses to engage with the crowd.

Attendees should plan their parking and routes carefully to avoid road closures and traffic during the event.

3. Participants

The Edwardsville Halloween Parade 2024 will feature over 100 floats and performances from various community organizations, businesses, school groups, and marching bands.

Each year, participants bring their best creative efforts to life, ensuring the parade is a visual delight for attendees. From elaborately decorated floats to costumed groups, the event highlights the talents and spirit of Edwardsville’s residents.

School bands and youth organizations also play a significant role, adding to the vibrant and inclusive atmosphere. The diversity of participants ensures the parade appeals to all ages and makes it a showcase of local talent, creativity, and community pride.

How to Participate in the Edwardsville Halloween Parade

1. Registration Deadline

To participate in the Edwardsville Halloween Parade 2024, register by October 11, 2024, to avoid incurring a $35 late fee.

Any registrations submitted after October 21, 2024, will not be accepted to ensure smooth planning and lineup arrangements.

Early registration is encouraged to secure a favorable spot in the parade. Don’t wait until the last minute—submit your application on time to enjoy the full experience without additional fees.

2. How to Register

Participants can register by visiting the Edwardsville/Glen Carbon Chamber of Commerce website to download the necessary registration and payment forms. Completed forms, along with payment, should be submitted via email to finalize participation.

This straightforward process ensures both businesses and individuals can join the parade with ease. Be sure to register early, as spots may fill quickly and late submissions will not be accepted after October 21, 2024.

3. Categories for Participation

The Edwardsville Halloween Parade offers various categories for participation to ensure inclusivity and creativity. Categories include individual participants, business-sponsored floats, community organization groups, and youth group performances.

This wide range allows residents, businesses, and youth organizations to showcase their talents, engage with the community, and add to the festive spirit.

Each float and group is encouraged to present their unique theme, contributing to the diverse lineup the parade is known for.

Weather and Safety Considerations for Parade Participants

1. Rain Policy

The Edwardsville Halloween Parade 2024 will proceed rain or shine, ensuring the event continues unless severe weather poses a public safety risk.

Parade organizers monitor weather conditions closely to ensure the safety of participants and spectators.

In the event of dangerous weather, announcements will be shared on official platforms to notify attendees of any changes or cancellations.

2. Dress Appropriately

As the event takes place outdoors in the evening, attendees are encouraged to dress warmly and bring umbrellas if rain is forecast.

Warming centers, such as Newsong Fellowship along the route, will offer hot chocolate and restrooms, providing a comfortable space for those needing a break from the cold.

Proper preparation ensures everyone can enjoy the parade comfortably.

Parking and Transportation Tips

1. General Parking

Spectators attending the Edwardsville Halloween Parade 2024 can find parking in the super lot east of Main Street, as well as along nearby side streets.

Arriving early is recommended, as parking spaces fill up quickly on parade night. Visitors should also be mindful of street closures along the parade route to avoid delays in accessing available parking areas.

2. Handicap Parking

For those requiring accessible parking, Jerry’s Tire Sales lot will offer reserved handicap spaces conveniently located near the parade route. This ensures easy access for individuals with mobility needs.

Spectators needing additional assistance can also utilize warming centers, such as Newsong Fellowship, which provides shelter and restrooms along the route for extra comfort.

3. Porta-Potties

Portable restrooms will be available at key locations for spectator convenience during the parade. Stations will be set up at Walgreens, First Mid Bank & Trust, and Big Daddy’s along the route.

These facilities are intended to ensure attendees can enjoy the parade comfortably without needing to leave the event area for restrooms.

Conclusion

Edwardsville Halloween Parade 2024 offers an unforgettable evening filled with creative floats, lively performances, and community spirit.

Whether you’re a participant or spectator, the parade provides an opportunity for everyone to enjoy the Halloween festivities.

With accessible parking, warming centers, and thoughtful amenities like porta-potties, the event ensures comfort for all attendees. Remember to register early if you want to join the lineup and plan for the weather to make the most of the night.

The Edwardsville Halloween Parade is a cherished tradition that celebrates local talent, businesses, and community pride.

FAQs

Are there any prizes for parade participants?

Yes, the parade offers awards for the most creative floats and performances. Categories may include Best Float, Best Group, and Fan Favorite. Spectators can also participate by voting for their favorite entry through the fan voting system available online after the event.

What should I bring to the parade?

Attendees are encouraged to bring chairs, blankets, and warm clothing to stay comfortable during the event. If rain is forecast, umbrellas and rain jackets are recommended. Many visitors also bring bags for collecting candy handed out by participants along the parade route

Are food vendors available during the parade?

Yes, local businesses and food vendors along the parade route typically offer snacks and refreshments. Many downtown restaurants remain open late, providing a chance to enjoy a meal or hot drink after the parade ends.

Will the parade still happen if it rains?

Yes, the parade will proceed rain or shine, unless severe weather poses a safety risk. Attendees are encouraged to dress warmly and bring umbrellas if rain is expected. Newsong Fellowship will serve as a warming center along the route for those needing shelter from the cold.