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Every fall, when the crisp mountain air hits and the leaves paint the Mile High City orange, I start counting down to one event that turns Denver into a live-action costume party – the Denver Halloween Parade.
It’s not just another spooky night out; it’s a full-blown community celebration where art, imagination, and a little friendly weirdness take over Broadway. If you’re planning your October calendar, mark Saturday, October 25, 2025, at 6 PM in bold.
The parade lights up Broadway Avenue, running from 5th Avenue to Alameda Avenue, right through the heart of the Baker District. Thousands of families, performers, and costumed fans will fill the street in a night of music, floats, and local pride.
Denver Halloween Parade 2025
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | Broadway Halloween Parade 2025 |
| Date | Saturday, October 25, 2025 |
| Time | 6:00 PM to around 8:30 PM |
| Location / Route | Broadway Avenue from 5th Ave to Alameda Ave, Denver CO |
| Entry Fee | Free for Spectators · Participant Registration Required |
| Duration | Approximately 2 to 2.5 hours |
| Expected Crowd Size | 20,000 – 25,000 people |
| Main Attractions | Floats, Costume Groups, Live Bands, Puppets, Dance Crews |
| Organizer | Broadway Merchants Association and Local Volunteers |
| Type | Family-Friendly Community Parade |
This table sums up what most people type into Google – “Denver Halloween Parade date, time, and route.” Now let’s unpack what makes this annual event so special for locals and visitors alike.
The Story Behind Denver’s Favorite Halloween Tradition
The Denver Halloween Parade started in the late 2010s as a neighborhood initiative. Local shop owners along Broadway wanted to bring the community together with something creative, festive, and family-safe.
What began as a small gathering of costumed walkers quickly grew into one of Colorado’s largest Halloween parades. Over the years, the parade became a tradition that represents Denver’s artistic and inclusive culture.
From local drag performers to marching bands, every kind of creativity has a place. In 2025, it’s expected to be bigger than ever – with new floats, community sponsors, and a strong push from local artists who make the event visually stunning.
Date, Time & Location Details for 2025
The Broadway Halloween Parade 2025 will roll out Saturday, October 25, beginning at 6 PM sharp. If you’ve been before, you know the trick – arrive early. Families usually start grabbing spots by 4 PM, and some bring chairs or blankets to camp out for the best view.
The route runs straight down Broadway, starting near 5th Avenue and ending just past Alameda Avenue. This stretch of Broadway becomes pedestrian-only for the evening.
You’ll see storefronts decked out with orange lights and cobwebs, and local bars set up outdoor service for adults who want a warm cider or local brew while watching.
The parade typically lasts about two hours, depending on the number of performers and floats. When it ends, most people linger – there’s street music, food trucks, and plenty of photo opportunities.
How to Participate in the Parade
Want to march in the parade instead of just watching? You can – and that’s part of what makes it great. Anyone can join, from local schools to small businesses and cosplay groups.
Participants usually register online through the organizers’ portal a few weeks before the event. You’ll need to submit your concept – whether it’s a float, marching act, or costume group – and agree to the safety rules.
There’s no strict theme this year, but creativity is strongly encouraged. In past years, Denverites have built everything from pirate ships on wheels to glowing dragon costumes.
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A few basic rules: no open flames, no weapons (real or fake), and costumes must be family-appropriate. There’s no age limit, but minors must be accompanied by adults.
Volunteer opportunities are also open – if you love helping organize or want to earn community credit, this is one of the most spirited events to get involved with.
Viewing Tips & Best Spots for Spectators
If your goal is the perfect photo or a comfortable seat, planning ahead helps. The best viewing spots are along South Broadway between Ellsworth and Bayaud Avenue. This central zone offers the widest sidewalks, nearby parking, and access to food vendors.
Families with kids often prefer the northern side near 5th Avenue – it’s less crowded, and local cafés offer restrooms and snacks. If you’re aiming for great lighting, the first 30 minutes after the parade starts are golden – the mix of sunset and float lights is unbeatable for photography.
Bring a blanket or folding chair, dress warmly, and keep your hands free for snacks or hot chocolate. Denver nights in late October can be chilly, and the breeze from the foothills often catches first-timers off guard.
The Spirit of Costumes & Themes in 2025
Every year, the Denver Halloween Parade celebrates creativity rather than strict rules. While there isn’t a fixed “official theme” for 2025, organizers encourage the community to embrace “Haunted Creatures & Urban Legends.” That means expect a wild mix of mythical beasts, ghosts, and creative interpretations of Denver’s folklore.
In 2024, the standout costume was a 20-foot glowing skeleton puppet carried by local artists – so the bar is high. Whether you want to go classic vampire, zombie skater, or pop-culture mash-up, you’ll fit right in.
Costume contests take place before the parade at several Broadway venues, and winners often lead the procession in 2025.
Entertainment & Highlights of the Night
This isn’t just a “walk-down-the-street” parade – it’s a full entertainment lineup. Expect live bands, marching drummers, giant puppets, street performers, and dance troupes performing everything from hip-hop to traditional Mexican folk dances.
Floats are built by schools, local theaters, and community artists, making it a real showcase of Denver’s creativity. Spectators can also catch fire jugglers (safely supervised), LED dancers, and neighborhood mascots handing out candy to kids.
After the parade, local pubs and restaurants along Broadway usually host after-parties with costume contests, music, and Halloween-themed drinks. If you’re visiting from out of town, it’s worth staying late to enjoy the full Denver Halloween experience.
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Travel and Accommodation Guide for Visitors
If you’re visiting Denver just for the Halloween Parade, you’re in for a treat — not a trick. Getting to the parade is simple, and there are plenty of cozy, affordable, and even luxurious places to stay near Broadway.
Getting to the Parade
Broadway is one of Denver’s most accessible streets. You can easily reach it via I-25 or Speer Boulevard, depending on where you’re coming from.
If you prefer public transportation, RTD buses run frequently along Broadway, and several light rail stations are within walking distance.
Parking around Broadway fills up fast, so I recommend using rideshare apps or parking a few blocks away in designated lots.
If you’re local, the best option is to take public transport or bike in. Denver’s “B-Cycle” system usually adds extra racks near the route for Halloween weekend. Not only is it convenient, but it also saves you from traffic jams once the parade ends.
Where to Stay Near the Parade
Denver has accommodations for every kind of traveler. For those who love being close to the action, Capitol Hill, Baker, and Downtown Denver offer hotels and boutique inns within a 10-minute drive or 20-minute walk to Broadway.
If you’re after comfort and convenience, look for stays near Speer Boulevard or Alameda Avenue — these areas strike a great balance between easy access and peaceful nights. For budget-friendly options, nearby neighborhoods like Lincoln Park and Athmar Park often have Airbnb listings at lower rates than downtown hotels.
Pro tip: Book early. Denver’s Halloween weekend attracts out-of-towners for concerts, haunted houses, and pub crawls, so rooms sell out fast.
Food and Local Experiences Along the Route
Halloween night in Denver is as much about the food as it is about the costumes. Broadway comes alive with street vendors, food trucks, and pop-up stands selling everything from caramel apples to spicy tacos.
Many of the restaurants lining Broadway run Halloween specials. If you love classic diner food, stop by one of the local joints before the parade starts. For something trendier, you’ll find themed cocktails and pumpkin-infused dishes at several pubs and breweries nearby.
Recommended Spots for Foodies
Here’s a quick overview of what to expect:
| Type | Popular Options Near Route | Average Cost (per person) |
|---|---|---|
| Street Food | Hot dogs, churros, kettle corn, tacos | $5 – $10 |
| Sit-down Restaurants | American diners, Mexican, Thai | $15 – $25 |
| Bars & Breweries | Local craft beer, themed cocktails | $10 – $20 |
| Dessert Cafés | Pumpkin pies, cupcakes, coffee | $8 – $12 |
One of my favorite parts of this parade is how the neighborhood turns into an open-air party. Even after the last float passes, you’ll hear music spilling from every corner, and local vendors stay open late to serve the crowd.
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Local Halloween Experiences in Denver
If you’re planning a full Halloween weekend, there’s no shortage of spooky fun beyond the parade. The Capitol Hill Ghost Tour, 13th Floor Haunted House, and City Park after-dark tours are fan favorites for thrill seekers.
Families might prefer pumpkin patches and fall festivals in the suburbs like Littleton or Arvada, where you can enjoy hayrides, corn mazes, and craft booths.
If you’re staying downtown, check for local costume contests and rooftop Halloween parties — they often coincide with parade weekend.
Safety, Rules, and Tips for Families
The Denver Halloween Parade prides itself on being safe, family-friendly, and inclusive. The organizers and Denver Police Department ensure smooth coordination so everyone enjoys the night responsibly.
Parade Rules and Safety Guidelines
Here are the main safety tips and regulations to remember:
- No weapons or replicas of any kind are allowed.
- No open flames (even small torches or fireworks).
- Keep pets leashed, and bring water for them if they’re joining you.
- Costumes must be family-appropriate — this parade welcomes kids of all ages.
- Respect barricades and follow crowd marshal directions.
If you’re attending with children, bring glow sticks or reflective bands so they’re easy to spot in the crowd. The sidewalks can get crowded near peak time, so having a meeting point planned is always smart.
Denver nights in late October can be cold, with temperatures dropping into the low 40s. Layer your costume with warm clothing and keep hand warmers handy if you’ll be standing outdoors for a few hours.
Photography and Social Media Tips
Let’s be honest — half the fun of the parade is capturing it on camera. Whether you’re using your phone or a DSLR, you’ll want to plan your shots.
Best Lighting and Angles
The first half hour after the parade begins offers the best lighting — the mix of twilight and the glow from the floats creates a dramatic effect. If you’re shooting after dark, switch to night mode or bring a small LED clip light. Avoid flash photography near performers; it can disrupt their vision.
Hashtags and Sharing
Each year, locals flood social media with their best shots under event hashtags like #DenverHalloweenParade, #BroadwayParadeDenver, and #HalloweeninDenver. Posting during or immediately after the parade gets the most engagement.
If you’re serious about photography, arrive early to claim a front-row spot. Some of the best angles are near Broadway and Ellsworth, where the route bends slightly — that’s where you’ll catch the full lineup as it turns and the background lights up with downtown Denver’s skyline.
Personal Tips for a Better Experience
I’ve attended the parade multiple times, and every year feels different. My best advice? Dress in layers, bring a thermos of something warm, and leave room in your phone storage — you’ll take more pictures than you expect.
If you’re with kids, pick a meeting spot in advance. If you’re with friends, agree on where to regroup after the parade ends, since crowds can blend fast. And above all, be patient and have fun — Denver’s Halloween Parade is about community spirit and shared creativity, not just costumes and candy.
Why the Denver Halloween Parade Stands Out
There’s something about Denver’s Halloween spirit that’s impossible to describe until you’ve experienced it in person. It’s not just the costumes or the lights — it’s the energy of people coming together to celebrate creativity, community, and a shared love of spooky fun.
Unlike the massive parades in New York or Los Angeles, Denver’s version has a local, heartwarming charm. You’ll see neighbors cheering for neighbors, families dancing on the sidewalks, and artists turning simple floats into moving works of art.
Every year, the parade evolves, but it never loses that neighborhood magic that started it all. Whether you’re a lifelong local or visiting Colorado for the first time, it’s the kind of event that makes you feel like part of the city.
Conclusion
The Denver Halloween Parade 2025 isn’t just another fall event — it’s a symbol of how a city can unite through art, laughter, and imagination.
From the moment the first float rolls down Broadway to the last tune fading into the night, you’ll witness Denver at its most colorful and creative.
If you love Halloween, community spirit, and unforgettable memories, this parade deserves a top spot on your bucket list. Bring your costume, bring your camera, and bring your curiosity — because Denver
FAQs
The parade begins at 6:00 PM on Saturday, October 25, 2025. However, locals know to arrive at least an hour early to find parking or secure a good viewing spot along Broadway. Early birds get the best photos and less crowded sidewalks.
Yes, the parade is completely free for spectators. You can stand anywhere along the route to watch. If you’d like to participate in the parade as a performer, group, or float, there may be a small registration fee to cover logistics and safety permits.
The route follows Broadway Avenue from 5th Avenue to Alameda Avenue in Denver. The entire stretch of Broadway will be closed to vehicles during the event, turning the area into one big festival zone.
Yes, participation is open to everyone — individuals, schools, small businesses, and community groups. The only requirement is registration in advance and adherence to costume and safety guidelines. Creativity and originality are always encouraged.
Absolutely. The Denver Halloween Parade is family-friendly and well-organized. You’ll see kids marching in costumes, handing out candy, and enjoying the floats. Bring ear protection for toddlers if they’re sensitive to loud music.
Yes, leashed pets are welcome, provided they’re comfortable with noise and crowds. Many locals dress their dogs in costumes, but always keep them hydrated and away from dense sections of the crowd.
Parking near Broadway is limited. There are paid lots around Bayaud Avenue and Speer Boulevard, but they fill quickly. Most locals prefer rideshare services or public transport to avoid post-parade traffic.
Yes, food trucks and local vendors line the parade route. Expect everything from caramel corn and churros to local craft brews. Some nearby bars host Halloween-themed specials after the parade.
Cameras are welcome, but drones are not permitted for safety reasons. Use a tripod or handheld stabilizer if you plan to shoot videos. Professional photographers should check with event staff for designated areas.
The parade usually continues rain or shine, unless weather conditions are severe. Denverites are used to chilly October nights, so dress warmly and bring a poncho just in case.