The Ocean City Halloween Parade is an iconic fall event, bringing the community together for a night of spooky fun. Celebrating its 76th annual edition in 2024.
The parade promises an evening filled with creatively costumed participants, decorated floats, marching bands, and local entertainment.
Organized by the Exchange Club of Ocean City, the parade draws visitors from all over, offering the perfect way to kick off the Halloween festivities.
Key Details for 2024 Parade
- Date and Time: October 24, 2024, at 7:15 PM
- Parade Route: Asbury Avenue from 6th Street to 11th Street
- Event Organizer: The Exchange Club of Ocean City, in partnership with the city
- Who Can Participate: Open to families, children, pets, local businesses, and community groups. Registration is encouraged for all participants.
Parade Highlights
The Ocean City Halloween Parade offers something for everyone, whether you’re marching, performing, or just spectating. This year’s parade will feature:
- Themed Floats and Costumes: Participants dress in Halloween-themed attire, ranging from scary costumes to creative designs.
- Cheerleading and Dance Teams: Local schools will showcase their talents with energetic routines.
- Pets in Costume: A dedicated division for pets adds a playful touch to the parade, with awards given for the best-dressed animals.
- Community Groups and Organizations: Non-profits, churches, and family groups will join the fun, marching together in festive outfits.
Registration Details
Participants can register by October 22, 2024, with divisions such as:
- Children (up to 12 years)
- Families, adults, and mixed-age groups
- Pets in Costume
- Community organizations, non-profits, and local businesses
- Non-commercial and commercial floats
Medals and trophies will be awarded for originality, artistry, and performance.
To register, participants need to provide contact information and details about their entry. Registration confirmations will be sent out promptly, ensuring smooth event-day participation.
Additional Events and Contests
Beyond the main parade, Ocean City offers other Halloween activities:
- House Decorating Contest: Residents can compete for prizes in various categories, with judging scheduled for October 22-23, 2024. A participant list will be available online so visitors can enjoy the festive decorations around town.
- Howl-O-Ween Pet Parade: A pet-themed parade takes place on October 26, allowing dogs and owners to strut their stuff along the boardwalk.
- Halloween Skate Park Event: On October 26, the skate park will host a costume contest, with prizes for the best-dressed skaters and the best tricks performed.
- Trick-or-Treating: Traditional trick-or-treat hours are set for October 31 from 5 PM to 8 PM, with local businesses joining the fun.
Why You Should Attend the Ocean City Halloween Parade
This family-friendly event is the perfect way to celebrate Halloween by the shore. The parade not only offers great entertainment but also strengthens community bonds by bringing together people from all walks of life.
With the chance to participate or simply enjoy the spectacle, it’s an event that draws large crowds every year. Plus, the festive atmosphere on Asbury Avenue provides a great backdrop for memorable photos and social media moments!
Ocean City Halloween Parade 2024 Overview
The Ocean City Halloween Parade is one of the most anticipated fall events on the Jersey Shore. Now in its 76th year, this beloved parade will be held on October 24, 2024, starting at 7:15 PM.
It follows a scenic route along Asbury Avenue, from 6th Street to 11th Street, offering residents and visitors a chance to revel in festive costumes, floats, and performances.
Sponsored by the Exchange Club of Ocean City in collaboration with the city, this event attracts large crowds, fostering a sense of community while celebrating the Halloween spirit.
Parade Features and What to Expect
The parade showcases themed floats, marching bands, dance groups, and costumed pets in several categories, making it an inclusive event for participants of all ages.
Schools, community groups, and local businesses join the fun, bringing creative energy to their costumes and performances.
The diversity of entries—from cheer squads to commercial floats—ensures something for everyone, whether you’re participating or simply enjoying the spectacle.
How to Participate and Register
Participants must register by October 22, 2024, and the divisions include:
- Children’s Groups (Under 12)
- Families or Mixed-Age Groups
- Organizations and Non-profits
- Pets in Costume
- Commercial and Non-commercial Floats
Each entry will be judged on originality, artistry, and performance, with winners receiving medals and trophies.
Registered participants receive their entry numbers via email ahead of the parade, streamlining event-day logistics.
Additional Events During Halloween Week
The Halloween Parade is just the start of the holiday fun in Ocean City. Complementary events include:
- Howl-O-Ween Pet Parade (October 26, 2024): A dog-friendly event on the boardwalk featuring pets in costumes and a chance to win prizes.
- Skate Park Costume Event (October 26): An event where skateboarders dress in Halloween costumes and compete for the best tricks.
- House Decorating Contest: Ocean City encourages residents to participate in a decorating contest, with judging scheduled on October 22-23.
Why You Should Attend the Ocean City Halloween Parade
This family-friendly event offers a perfect blend of fun and tradition, bringing the community together in a festive spirit.
Whether it’s admiring the elaborate floats, enjoying cheerleading performances, or snapping pictures of pets in creative costumes.
The parade has become an integral part of Ocean City’s fall celebrations. Attendees can expect crowds, excitement, and plenty of Halloween-themed entertainment, making it a can’t-miss event for both locals and visitors.
Conclusion
The Ocean City Halloween Parade 2024 offers a spook-tacular experience for visitors and locals alike. From colorful floats and dancing teams to costumed pets and festive events.
This parade is a highlight of the fall season. Be sure to mark your calendar for October 24, 2024, and experience one of Ocean City’s favorite traditions!
For more information or to register, check out the official event website and get ready for an evening filled with fun and fright by the shore.
FAQs
The parade starts at 7:15 PM on October 24, 2024.
It travels along Asbury Avenue from 6th Street to 11th Street.
Yes, participants must register in advance, with the deadline being October 22, 2024.
Yes! Other events include the Howl-O-Ween Pet Parade, a skate park contest, and a house decorating contest.
Trick-or-treating will take place on October 31 from 5 PM to 8 PM.
Related Post
- New Canaan Halloween Parade 2024
- Hoboken Halloween Parade 2024
- Findlay Halloween Parade 2024
- Medford NJ Halloween Parade 2024
- New Cumberland Halloween Parade 2024
- Hummelstown Halloween Parade 2024