Bethlehem Halloween Parade 2025: Date, Route & What to Expect
I’ve got good news if you’re planning to catch a Halloween parade in 2025 — the Bethlehem Halloween Parade is back, and it’s a must-see. The 104th Annual Parade is scheduled for Sunday, October 26, 2025, at 2:00 PM. If weather throws a wrench in the works, the rain date is Sunday, November 2.
Let me walk you through everything you need to know — from route and history to viewing tips, costumes, and FAQs.
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Parade Overview
Here’s a snapshot table of key details for the Bethlehem Halloween Parade 2025:
| Date & Time | Location / Route | Duration | Entry Fee | Expected Crowd Size | Main Attractions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunday, Oct 26, 2025 at 2:00 PM (rain date Nov 2) | Starts: West Broad & 9th Avenue → east on Broad → south on Main → ends at Main & Spring (approx. 1.5 miles) | ~1 hour (depending on pace & stops) | Free for spectators | Thousands (local attendance) | Marching bands, floats, costumed groups, candy tossers, community groups |
There are no hidden fees for spectators. The city encourages locals, schools, and community groups to join in.
Bethlehem Halloween Parade 2025 Date, Time & Location Details
2025 Parade Date & Start Time
- Date: Sunday, October 26, 2025
- Time: 2:00 PM
- Rain Date: Sunday, November 2 (same time)
Route Description
- The formation point is at West Broad Street & 9th Avenue
- Parade moves eastward along Broad Street
- It then turns south onto Main Street
- Termination point is Main & Spring Streets
- The route is roughly 1.5 miles in length
Best Starting Points & Viewing Zones
- The intersection of Broad & Main offers visibility of many floats and performances.
- Viewing near Main & Spring is good for the grand finale.
- For fewer crowds and better photo angles, try standing slightly back from major corners.
After the parade, folks often linger downtown, mingling with participants, browsing local businesses, or grabbing a bite.
👻 Halloween Mega Sale is Live!
History & Origins
The Bethlehem Halloween Parade is one of the longest-running Halloween traditions in the region. The city counts this year as the 104th edition. The parade began as a modest local celebration decades ago and gradually evolved into a large community event.
It’s organized by the City of Bethlehem’s Recreation Bureau in coordination with municipal departments. Over the years, the parade has changed routes, expanded participation, and added themes and contests. In local lore, it reflects how the community embraces Halloween not just as scary fun, but as a time of shared celebration.
Historically, it’s been tied to autumn festivals, school events, and community spirit more than ancient pagan roots. But over time, the parade has become a platform for local identity — the costumes, the floats, the local bands — all echo Bethlehem’s character.
How to Participate
Yes regular folks, schools, and groups can join the parade.
Requirements & Registration
- You must register by Friday, October 17, 2025
- Late entries are not accepted
- Registration is done via the City’s Recreation Bureau
Cost & Deadlines
- Participation is usually free, but you must meet the registration deadline
- No late registration — city is strict on this
Age & Volunteer Rules
- Participants of all ages welcome (kids, families, community groups)
- Some roles (e.g. float drivers) might require adult supervision or special insurance
- Volunteer opportunities exist (helpers along route, crowd control, setup)
If you’re planning a group or themed float, start planning early — props, music, and coordination all take time.
Viewing Tips & Best Spots
Best Viewing Spots
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- Aim for Broad & Main you’ll catch floats turning or performing.
- The stretch near Main & Spring is dramatic for final displays.
- Side streets adjacent to the main route are less crowded and good for photos.
Accessibility
- Curb cuts and crosswalks at major intersections help wheelchair users
- Assistive viewers should arrive early to secure accessible spots
Weather Preparation
- Late October can be chilly: bring layers, scarves, gloves
- Use a flashlight or glowaccessory to stay visible in dusk
- Check the rain forecast the rain date is November 2
Go early to stake your territory and avoid the densest crowds.
Costumes & Theme
This parade doesn’t enforce a single theme, but creativity is encouraged.
Costume Advice
- Avoid obstructive props or sharp edges
- Use glow sticks, LED accents, or light colors for visibility
- Coordinate group outfits (e.g. superheroes, movie characters)
Contest Info & Trends
- The city often gives awards: best float, best group, best school entry
- Past favorites have included glow skeletons, pop culture mashups, and musical group costumes
- For 2025, think trending shows, vintage throwbacks, or classic horror remixes
Moderation is key bold, fun, but safe for families.
Entertainment & Highlights
The parade is more than walking it’s a spectacle.
Highlights to Watch For
- Marching bands from local schools
- Decorated floats (haunted house themes, whimsical displays)
- Costumed performers mingling with the crowd
- Interactive candy tossers and mascots
- Occasional fire trucks or emergency vehicle displays with sirens
Unique Traditions
👻 Halloween Mega Sale is Live!
- Some floats stop mid-route for mini-performances
- Award winners get recognition near the end
- Local dignitaries (like the mayor) often appear in costume
Post-parade, many attendees gather downtown restaurants, cafés, or festival booths extending the celebration.
Travel & Accommodation
If you’re visiting Bethlehem for Halloween, here’s how to make it easier.
Nearest Airports & Transport
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- Lehigh Valley International Airport is closest
- Major roads like I-78 and Route 22 connect Bethlehem to regional hubs
Parking & Public Transport Tips
- Downtown garages near Walnut Street offer decent access
- Street parking fills fast; arriving early increases chances
- Public buses and shuttles may run extra services on parade day
Hotel Recommendations
- Historic Hotel Bethlehem — charming and centrally located
- Comfort Suites University Area — good value near the route
- Book early parade weekend draws many visitors
If nearby towns like Allentown or Easton have open hotels, they’re short drives away.
Food & Local Experiences
You’ll want more than candy local eats matter.
Street Food & Vendors
- Parade route features vendors selling hot cocoa, pretzels, funnel cakes
- Mobile carts pop up in high foot-traffic zones
Restaurants & Cafés
- Apollo Grill and The Goose are favorite stops downtown
- Bars and cafés sometimes offer Halloween-themed drinks or discounts
- Explore side alleys hidden gems with seasonal specials
Pair your parade night with local flavor it makes the visit more memorable.
Safety & Rules
Staying safe ensures fun for everyone.
Security & Checks
- Police are present along route to maintain order
- Occasional bag checks at key intersections
- Expect general crowd safety protocol (don’t block routes)
Prohibited Items
- Open flames, fireworks, sharp props
- Large unsturdy structures or unstable floats
- Alcohol in public along route is usually disallowed
Family Safety Tips
- Keep kids close during candy moments
- Agree on a meeting spot in case someone gets lost
- Bring small snacks or water for little ones
A little caution goes a long way in such crowds.
Photography & Social Media Tips
Yes you’ll want to capture it all.
Best Lighting & Timing
- The early stretch on Broad Street is well-lit
- Use side angles avoid backlit crowd silhouettes
Photo Tips
- Hold your camera just above crowd level
- Use burst mode for moving floats or dancers
- Capture both wide shots of floats and close-ups of characters
Social Media Advice
- Use tags like #BethlehemHalloweenParade and #BethlehemPA
- Tag the city’s official recreation or tourism pages
- If using video, keep clips short (15–30 sec) and focused
Share your experience and connect with others following the parade.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Yes no cost for spectators.
Yes, with registration before October 17, 2025.
Downtown parking garages near Walnut Street or street parking away from core route.
Sunday, November 2, 2025.
No strict limit; group coordinators oversee minors or float drivers.
Conclusion
The Bethlehem Halloween Parade 2025 is shaping up to be an unforgettable community event. It’s free, festive, friendly, and inclusive. Whether you attend as a spectator or march in costume, you’ll experience local pride, creative expression, and that warm communal energy.
If I were going, I’d register early, pick a good viewing spot near Broad & Main, bring layers, and let my camera tell the story. I hope seeing this parade becomes a highlight for you too.
Go ahead bite into the candy, cheer for floats, wave at costumed walkers and make this Halloween one to remember.
October 26 @ 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm
610-865-7081
recreation@bethlehem-pa.gov
