Every October, Downtown Anaheim lights up with spooky charm, vibrant floats, and community spirit. The Anaheim Halloween Parade has been a beloved tradition for decades, and in 2025, it’s set to be as magical as ever.
I always tell friends that if you want the perfect mix of nostalgia and Halloween fun, this is where you go. This year’s event happens on the Saturday before Halloween, drawing thousands of locals and visitors to celebrate together.
From intricate costumes to classic parade cars, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. And yes it’s free to watch, which is always a treat.
Anaheim Halloween Parade 2025
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date | Saturday, October 25, 2025 |
| Parade Start Time | 7:00 PM |
| Festival Time | 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Anaheim Fall Festival at Center Greens) |
| Starting Location | Anaheim City Hall, 200 S. Anaheim Blvd |
| Route | West along Broadway, ending near Walnut Street |
| Cost | Free to attend |
| Organizer | Anaheim Fall Festival Committee |
When is the 2025 Anaheim Halloween Parade
The Anaheim Halloween Parade will take place on Saturday, October 25, 2025, starting at 7:00 PM. I like that they keep it in the evening it makes the lights, costumes, and floats look even more stunning.
Since it’s held the weekend before Halloween, it’s perfect timing for families and groups who don’t want to miss other holiday events during the week. I recommend arriving at least an hour early to secure a good viewing spot.
Where Does the Anaheim Halloween Parade Start and End?
The parade begins right at Anaheim City Hall on South Anaheim Boulevard. From there, it travels west along Broadway, giving plenty of viewing opportunities for those lining the sidewalks.
It ends near Walnut Street, where crowds usually gather for final performances and photos. Personally, I think the mid-route stretch near Center Street Promenade gives some of the best views without the biggest crowds.
Is the Anaheim Halloween Parade Free to Attend?
Yes, the Anaheim Halloween Parade is completely free for spectators. That’s one reason I’ve seen entire neighborhoods show up families, couples, and big groups all find it affordable fun.
Even better, the nearby Anaheim Fall Festival runs earlier in the day, and that’s free to enter as well. It’s a great way to make a full day out of it, with daytime games, food booths, and live music before the nighttime parade.
History and Origins of the Anaheim Halloween Parade
The Anaheim Halloween Parade first rolled through the city streets in 1924, making it one of California’s longest-running community parades. I’ve always admired how it’s kept that vintage charm while adding new attractions over the years.
Originally, it was a small neighborhood event designed to bring residents together for Halloween fun. Over time, it grew into a citywide celebration with elaborate floats, marching bands, and creative costumes.
The event is now organized by the Anaheim Fall Festival Committee, with help from volunteers, local businesses, and community groups. That mix of tradition and community pride is what makes it stand out from newer, commercialized events.
How to Participate in the Anaheim Halloween Parade
Walking in the parade is open to both individuals and groups, but pre-registration is required. You can sign up through the official Anaheim Fall Festival website, and spots tend to fill up quickly.
Participants can join as costumed walkers, themed float riders, marching band members, or even vintage vehicle drivers. I’ve seen everything from spooky skeleton brigades to school cheer squads bringing high energy to the route.
There are also volunteer opportunities for those who want to help without performing. These roles include helping with crowd management, setting up decorations, and assisting parade participants along the route.
Viewing Tips and Best Spots
If you want the best parade photos, position yourself near Center Street Promenade. The lighting there is perfect once the sun goes down, and it’s less crowded than the start and end points.
Families with kids might prefer spots closer to Anaheim City Hall, where the parade energy is high but still manageable. I’ve also found that the mid-route area near Harbor Boulevard is a great choice if you want a balanced mix of excitement and breathing room.
Bring folding chairs or blankets, and if possible, arrive before 6:00 PM to claim your space. Late arrivals usually end up standing, and trust me two hours on your feet can feel like forever if you’re juggling snacks and kids.
Costumes and Themes for 2025
While the Anaheim Halloween Parade doesn’t always stick to a single strict theme, participants often coordinate costumes with the spirit of the Anaheim Fall Festival. I’ve noticed a mix of classic Halloween icons witches, vampires, mummies alongside whimsical pop culture characters.
Many groups go all-out with hand-crafted outfits, and there’s usually a strong showing of Disney-inspired costumes thanks to the city’s proximity to Disneyland. If you’re planning to march or just watch, I recommend wearing something festive to feel part of the celebration.
Costume contests happen during the daytime festival, so dressing up isn’t just for parade participants. I’ve seen toddlers in pumpkin suits win hearts and prizes before the evening even begins.
Entertainment and Highlights
The parade is known for its colorful floats, marching bands, and giant character puppets that tower above the crowd. Every year, I’m impressed by the creativity on display some floats even include moving parts and special lighting effects.
Live music is a big part of the show, from high school bands to mariachi groups, adding variety to the soundtrack of the night. You’ll also catch stilt walkers, dancers, and community performers weaving between the larger entries.
The vintage vehicle section is always a crowd favorite. Shiny classic cars, often decked out with cobwebs and skeleton passengers, add a nostalgic twist to the spooky fun.
Travel and Accommodation
If you’re coming from outside Anaheim, the nearest major airport is John Wayne Airport (SNA), about 14 miles away. Long Beach Airport and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) are also within reasonable driving distance.
Hotels near Harbor Boulevard or Disneyland Resort put you within a short walk or ride to the parade route. I’ve found that booking at least a month in advance gets you better rates and availability.
For local attendees, Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center (ARTIC) offers easy rail and bus access. Parking is available downtown, but it fills up quickly arriving early is your best bet.
Food and Local Experiences
The parade pairs perfectly with the Anaheim Fall Festival, which offers food booths, local crafts, and live entertainment earlier in the day. I always make time for a cup of warm apple cider from the festival vendors before heading to my parade spot.
If you want a sit-down meal, restaurants along Center Street Promenade and Broadway often run Halloween-themed specials. You might find pumpkin spice cocktails, spooky desserts, and seasonal comfort foods on the menu.
For a full Anaheim experience, explore local attractions before or after parade day Disneyland, Anaheim Packing House, and nearby farmers’ markets give you even more reasons to make it a weekend trip.
Safety and Rules for Attendees
The Anaheim Halloween Parade is family-friendly, but a few rules keep things running smoothly. Large bags may be subject to inspection, and dangerous props like real weapons are not allowed.
If you’re bringing kids, I suggest glow sticks or reflective accessories so they stay visible in the evening crowds. Pets are welcome along the viewing route but must be leashed and comfortable around noise and costumes.
Alcohol is generally restricted to designated festival areas, so don’t plan on sipping during the parade itself. City and event staff are present along the route to assist if needed.
Photography and Social Media Tips
The best time for photos is just after sunset, when the sky has that soft blue glow but the floats are fully lit. I’ve found that standing near streetlights gives you extra clarity without needing a flash.
For social sharing, tag your posts with #AnaheimHalloweenParade and #AnaheimFallFestival. The organizers often repost standout shots, and it’s a great way to connect with other parade fans.
If you’re using professional equipment, check the event website for any special photography guidelines. Some spots along the route are tight, so plan ahead for your setup.
Conclusion
The Anaheim Halloween Parade 2025 is more than just an event it’s a tradition that brings the community together under the glow of streetlights and the sparkle of creative costumes.
From the afternoon festival to the nighttime procession, there’s a sense of nostalgia and joy that’s hard to find anywhere else.
If you’ve never been, make this the year you go. Bring your camera, wear something festive, and be ready to cheer as the floats roll by. And if you’ve been before, you already know it’s the kind of night you’ll talk about long after October ends.
Have you attended the Anaheim Halloween Parade before? Share your best tips or photos in the comments below. Your advice might just help someone else have their perfect parade night.
FAQs
Yes, there’s no cost to watch the parade or attend the daytime festival.
Yes, but you must register in advance through the official website.
I recommend arriving by 6:00 PM for the best viewing spots.
Yes, but downtown lots fill quickly. Arrive early or use public transit.
Leashed pets are welcome along the viewing route, but not all festival areas permit them.