Halloween in Canada is a mix of spooky creativity, lively parades, and community fun. Every October, streets in major cities turn into colorful stages filled with costumes, music, and glowing decorations.
If you’re planning to celebrate Halloween in 2025, Canada has plenty to offer. From Toronto’s famous Church Street party to Vancouver’s Parade of Lost Souls, there’s something for every style of celebration. I’ve gathered all the confirmed details so you can plan your night with confidence.
Major 2025 Halloween Events in Canada
| Event Name | City | Date | Time | Route / Location | Entry Fee | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Halloween on Church | Toronto, ON | Oct 31, 2025 | 6:30 pm – 12:00 am | Church St (Gloucester to Carlton) | Free | Costumes, live music, street party |
| Parade of Lost Souls | Vancouver, BC | Nov 1, 2025 | 7 pm / 8 pm / 9 pm | Secret route in East Van, revealed Oct 31 | Donation | Theatrical performances, fire dancers |
| Wicked Victoria | Victoria, BC | Oct 26, 2025 | 10:30 am – 3:30 pm | Government St (Yates to Broughton) | Free | Street festival, performers, kids’ zone |
Toronto | Halloween on Church Street
Toronto’s Church-Wellesley Village becomes the heart of Halloween in Ontario. The Halloween on Church street party attracts thousands every year, making it one of Canada’s biggest Halloween gatherings.
In 2025, the event will run on Friday, October 31, starting at 6:30 pm and lasting until midnight. Church Street will be closed between Gloucester Street and Carlton Street, creating a safe space for crowds to enjoy live music, costume contests, and food stalls.
I’ve been there before, and trust me, the variety of costumes is jaw-dropping. You’ll see everything from movie-quality makeup to quirky homemade designs. If you love people-watching, this is the spot.
Vancouver | Parade of Lost Souls
The Parade of Lost Souls in Vancouver is a community-led event with an air of mystery. The exact route remains a secret until the night before, adding to its charm.
This year, it’s happening on Saturday, November 1, with performances at 7 pm, 8 pm, and 9 pm. The festivities usually take place in East Vancouver near Commercial Drive and Britannia, but you’ll need to check the official announcement for exact meeting points.
Expect live music, dance, fire performances, and interactive art. I once joined a masked dance circle there, and it was both eerie and magical a perfect mix for Halloween.
Victoria | Wicked Victoria
In Victoria, Wicked Victoria takes over Government Street with a family-friendly Halloween festival. This year’s event is set for Sunday, October 26, from 10:30 am to 3:30 pm.
The route runs along Government Street between Yates Street and Broughton Street, completely closed to traffic. You’ll find food trucks, street entertainers, and a kids’ zone full of games and activities.
It’s one of the few Halloween events where you can enjoy the festive vibe in broad daylight, making it ideal for families with young children.
Montreal | Halloween Festivities
Montreal might not have a single large-scale Halloween parade, but it makes up for it with unique seasonal events. The La Ronde Fright Fest is a major draw, running from October 5 to 27, 2025, inside the city’s amusement park.
Haunted houses, scare zones, and live performances transform the park into a thrilling Halloween destination. If you’re visiting on Halloween weekend, expect bigger crowds and extra entertainment.
Another popular spot is the Old Montreal Ghost Walks, where guides in period costumes share eerie tales about the city’s history. While not officially a parade, the candlelit streets and costumed actors feel just as festive.
Ottawa | Halloween Events and Street Celebrations
Ottawa blends cultural traditions with family fun. The Day of the Dead Festival at ByWard Market Square runs from October 31 to November 2, 2025. You can expect live music, traditional altars, and delicious Mexican food.
On October 26, the Glebe Halloween Party brings costumed families to Bank Street for trick-or-treating and photo ops. It’s smaller than a parade, but the community spirit is just as strong.
For something different, the Treat Accessibly Halloween Village in Stittsville offers a barrier-free trick-or-treating experience, making it a safe and inclusive event for everyone.
Calgary | Halloween in the Prairies
Calgary’s biggest Halloween gathering is the Dash of Doom on Saturday, October 25, 2025, starting at 2:00 pm from North Glenmore Park – Parking Lot O. It’s a costume fun run where participants and their pets dress up for a friendly race.
If you prefer spooky rides, Calaway Park Halloweekends runs through select dates in September and October, offering family-friendly Halloween attractions.
While Calgary doesn’t have a traditional Halloween parade downtown, the community events and themed runs make the city just as lively on Halloween weekend.
Edmonton | Haunted Attractions and Nightlife
Edmonton goes big with haunted experiences instead of street parades. DARK at Fort Edmonton Park runs from October 3 to November 1, 2025, offering multiple themed scare zones.
The city also hosts Deadmonton Haunted House from September 26 to November 8, 2025, at 9300 47 Street NW. It’s an intense haunted attraction best suited for older teens and adults.
While there’s no large-scale Halloween street parade, Edmonton’s haunted attractions draw thousands each year and keep the city buzzing throughout October.
Winnipeg | Boo at the Zoo
Winnipeg’s main Halloween event is Boo at the Zoo, running from October 3 to 31, 2025, at Assiniboine Park Zoo.
Weekday hours are 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm, while Fridays and Saturdays extend to 11:00 pm. On October 31, the zoo hosts an 18+ “After, After Dark” event with a spookier theme and late-night entertainment.
The entire zoo transforms into a Halloween wonderland with light displays, themed zones, and roaming performers. It’s one of the best family-friendly Halloween destinations in Manitoba.
Quebec City | Historic Halloween Charm
Quebec City’s Halloween on the Plains of Abraham runs from October 1 to November 9, 2025, featuring haunted tours, costumed guides, and themed activities.
On October 25, 2025, the borough of La Haute-Saint-Charles hosts the Mascarade de l’Halloween starting at 4:30 pm on Rue Racine. It’s a smaller parade but full of local flavor and community pride.
Quebec City’s old streets and historic buildings make Halloween celebrations feel extra atmospheric. Even a casual evening walk feels like stepping into a ghost story.
Halifax | Coastal Halloween Vibes
Halifax doesn’t host a large, city-run Halloween parade, but the downtown core becomes a hotspot for nightlife on October 31. Bars, clubs, and live music venues hold themed parties that spill into the streets late into the night.
Families can enjoy community-organized trick-or-treat events and haunted walks in neighborhoods like the Hydrostone and South End. These gatherings bring neighbors together while keeping the festive spirit alive without large-scale closures.
If you’re after a mix of history and scares, the city’s Ghost Walk of Historic Halifax offers a guided evening tour full of eerie tales from the city’s past.
St. John’s | George Street Mardi Gras
In Newfoundland, Halloween celebrations peak with the George Street Mardi Gras on October 31 and November 1, 2025. The entertainment district closes to traffic, transforming into an outdoor costume party with live music on multiple stages.
Crowds fill the narrow street shoulder to shoulder, making it one of the largest public gatherings in the province. If you plan to attend, arrive early to get through security checks and find a good viewing spot near your favorite bar or stage.
The event is strictly 19+, so it’s not one for family trick-or-treating, but for nightlife lovers, it’s a can’t-miss Halloween experience.
Regina | Halloween Fun Runs and Community Events
While Regina doesn’t host a massive Halloween parade, the Run Regina Halloween Run & Walk on October 25, 2025 brings runners of all ages together in costume. The event often includes a kids’ dash, making it family-friendly.
Neighborhood trick-or-treating and themed events at local malls and community centers are common across the city. These gatherings give residents safe and festive spaces to celebrate.
If you’re looking for a spooky attraction, some local farms host haunted corn mazes in the lead-up to Halloween, offering thrills outside the city center.
Saskatoon | Zombie Walk
Saskatoon’s Zombie Walk is a must-see if you love theatrical costumes. This year, it’s set for Friday, October 4, 2025, starting at 4:00 pm at the Zhongshan Ting Temple.
Participants, dressed as the undead, make their way across the bridge and down Broadway Avenue, ending at the Roxy Theatre for a movie screening at 7:00 pm.
The event combines performance art with a social gathering, and it’s open to anyone who wants to join zombie makeup encouraged but not required.
Other Notable Canadian Halloween Events
While the big cities get most of the attention, smaller towns across Canada also hold memorable Halloween events.
- Canmore, AB – Halloween in the Mountains features trick-or-treating in the downtown shops.
- Charlottetown, PEI – Ghost Walks highlight local haunted history throughout October.
- Whitehorse, YT – Community center hosts an annual Halloween dance and costume contest.
These smaller gatherings often have a more intimate feel, making them perfect for travelers seeking local charm.
Viewing Tips and Best Spots
If you’re going to a parade like Halloween on Church in Toronto, aim to arrive an hour early to secure a spot near the main stage areas. Crowds build fast, and the front-row view makes all the difference for photos.
For Parade of Lost Souls in Vancouver, follow community social media pages on October 30 to get the secret route location. That way, you can position yourself near the best performance zones.
In Victoria, the Wicked Victoria event is spread out along Government Street, so it’s easy to move between sections and catch different acts without feeling crowded.
Costumes and Themes for 2025
While most Canadian Halloween events have no strict costume rules, many encourage creative themes. In Toronto, expect over-the-top cosplay, movie references, and group costumes.
Vancouver’s events lean toward theatrical and artistic costumes, often handmade with incredible detail. Meanwhile, family-friendly events like Wicked Victoria or Boo at the Zoo feature lighter, colorful designs suited for kids.
If you’re short on time, you can always pick up last-minute accessories from local shops or even dollar stores you’ll blend right in without overspending.
Travel and Accommodation
Major Halloween events in cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal often coincide with busy weekends, so booking hotels early is a smart move.
- Toronto: Look for stays near the Church-Wellesley Village for walking access.
- Vancouver: Downtown hotels put you close to most festivities and public transit.
- Quebec City: Old Town accommodations offer the most atmospheric Halloween experience.
For smaller cities, you might find more affordable options on the outskirts with quick bus or rideshare access to event locations.
Food and Local Experiences
Toronto’s Church Street event is surrounded by bars, cafes, and restaurants perfect for a late-night bite.
In Vancouver, nearby Commercial Drive eateries offer everything from vegan comfort food to quick pizza slices, ideal for a short parade break.
Quebec City’s Plains of Abraham celebration pairs perfectly with a stroll through Old Town, where cozy bistros serve warm drinks and hearty meals in historic settings.
Safety and Rules
Most large events have security checks, so avoid bringing large bags or prohibited items. Weapons, even fake ones, can be turned away at entry points.
Stay with friends, especially in big nightlife events like George Street Mardi Gras, and arrange a meeting spot in case you get separated.
For family-friendly parades and street festivals, watch for road closures and keep children close in busy sections.
Photography and Social Media Tips
For the best photos, attend early evening events when there’s still some natural light. Once it gets dark, use your phone’s night mode or a small portable light for better clarity.
Check if the event has an official hashtag for example, Toronto’s #HalloweenOnChurch and tag your photos for a chance to be featured on community pages.
Remember to be respectful when taking photos of other people’s costumes. Always ask before snapping close-up shots.
Conclusion
Halloween in Canada is as diverse as the country itself. From massive street parties in Toronto to intimate, artistic gatherings in Vancouver, every city adds its own flavor to the celebration.
Whether you’re after family-friendly fun, thrilling haunted attractions, or all-night costume parties, 2025 offers an event for every mood.
Plan ahead, dress up, and join the thousands who turn Canada’s streets into unforgettable stages each October.
FAQs
Most street parades and community events are free, but some haunted attractions require tickets.
Some events allow pets in costume, like Calgary’s Dash of Doom, but always check event guidelines first.
Parade of Lost Souls and similar community walks often accept walk-ins, but large organized parades may require registration.
Arrive at least 30–60 minutes early to get a good spot, especially for evening events.
In major cities, parking is limited. Public transit is often the best option.