Edwardsville’s Halloween Parade 2025 Date, Time & Location Details
The Edwardsville Halloween Parade is a cherished tradition that brings together the community for a night of festive fun. In 2025, the parade is set to take place on Friday, October 31, at 6:30 PM in Downtown Edwardsville, Illinois.
This year’s theme is “Foodie Friday: A Celebration of Your Favorite Eats”, promising a delightful mix of culinary-inspired costumes and floats. The parade route will begin at Lincoln Middle School and proceed east on St. Louis Street, north on North Main Street, and conclude at High Street. Spectators can expect a vibrant display of creativity and community spirit.
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Halloween Parade Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date & Time | Friday, October 31, 2025, at 6:30 PM |
| Location/Route | Starts at Lincoln Middle School, proceeds east on St. Louis Street, north on North Main Street, ends at High Street |
| Duration | Approximately 1.5 hours |
| Entry Fee | Varies; registration required |
| Expected Crowd | Estimated 25,000 spectators |
| Main Attractions | Over 100 floats, marching bands, school groups, entertainers |
History & Origins
The Edwardsville Halloween Parade has been a staple of the community for nearly a century, organized by the Edwardsville/Glen Carbon Chamber of Commerce. The parade began as a small gathering and has grown into one of the largest Halloween events in the region. Each year, the parade showcases the creativity and spirit of the local community, with participants ranging from school groups to local businesses. The event not only celebrates Halloween but also fosters a sense of unity and tradition among residents.
Edwardsville’s Halloween Parade Date, Time & Location Details
- Date & Time: Friday, October 31, 2025, at 6:30 PM
- Starting Point: Lincoln Middle School parking lot at Schwarz & West Streets
- Route: East on St. Louis Street, north on North Main Street, ends at High Street
- Rain Policy: The parade will proceed rain or shine unless there is a safety risk; cancellation decision will be made by 5:30 PM on the day of the event
- Live Stream: The parade will be streamed live on Facebook and available for viewing later on YouTube
How to Participate In Edwardsville’s Halloween Parade 2025
Participation in the Edwardsville Halloween Parade is open to various groups, including schools, businesses, and community organizations. Registration is required, and the deadline for submission is Friday, October 10, 2025. Late entries postmarked after this date will incur a $55 late fee and will be positioned at the end of the parade lineup. Entries received after October 20, 2025 will be returned. Completed registration packets and credit card authorization forms should be emailed to [email protected]. Parade packets, including lineup numbers and maps, will be available for pickup at the Ed/Glen Chamber office from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM on October 15–17, 2025.
Viewing Tips & Best Spots
To make the most of your parade experience:
- Best Viewing Areas: St. Louis Street and North Main Street offer excellent vantage points.
- Arrive Early: To secure a good spot, it’s advisable to arrive at least 30 minutes before the parade begins.
- Accessibility: The parade route is accessible for individuals with mobility challenges.
- Weather Preparedness: October evenings can be chilly; dressing in layers and bringing blankets or chairs is recommended.
Costumes & Themes
The 2025 theme, “Foodie Friday: A Celebration of Your Favorite Eats”, encourages participants to get creative with food-inspired costumes. Past parades have featured costumes ranging from giant tacos to pizza slices, reflecting the community’s imaginative spirit. While there is no official costume contest, attendees often showcase their best outfits, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Entertainment & Highlights
The parade features a diverse array of entertainment, including:
- Floats: Over 100 creatively decorated floats representing various community groups and businesses.
- Marching Bands: Local school bands providing lively music throughout the parade.
- Performers: Dancers, entertainers, and costumed characters adding to the festive ambiance.
After the parade, attendees can enjoy various local events and activities, further extending the Halloween celebration.
👻 Halloween Mega Sale is Live!
Travel & Accommodation
Edwardsville is accessible via major highways, and several hotels are located nearby for those wishing to stay overnight. Public parking is available along the parade route, but it’s advisable to arrive early as spaces fill up quickly. Public transportation options are limited; therefore, personal vehicles or rideshare services are recommended for getting to and from the event.
Food & Local Experiences
Local vendors and food trucks often line the parade route, offering a variety of treats and refreshments. From Halloween-themed snacks to hot beverages, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Additionally, many local restaurants and cafes in downtown Edwardsville offer special Halloween menus and promotions during the parade.
Safety & Rules
For a safe and enjoyable experience:
- Bag Checks: Expect security personnel to conduct bag checks at various points along the parade route.
- Prohibited Items: Weapons, large props, and alcohol are not permitted.
- Family Safety: Parents should ensure children are supervised at all times, and it’s advisable to establish a meeting point in case of separation.
Photography & Social Media Tips
Capture the memories:
- Best Lighting: The parade begins at dusk, providing optimal lighting for photographs.
- Hashtags: Use official hashtags such as #EdwardsvilleHalloweenParade and #FoodieFridayParade when sharing on social media.
- Equipment: While personal cameras are allowed, drones and professional photography equipment may require prior approval.
FAQs
Yes, the parade is free and open to the public.
Pets are allowed but should be kept on a leash and under control at all times.
No tickets are required for spectators.
Arriving at least 30 minutes before the parade starts is recommended to secure a good viewing spot.
Yes, public parking is available, but spaces fill up quickly.
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Conclusion
The Edwardsville Halloween Parade 2025 is set to be a memorable event, showcasing community spirit, creativity, and festive fun. Whether you’re participating or spectating, it’s an experience that brings the community together to celebrate Halloween in a unique and exciting way.
October 31 @ 6:30 pm – 9:00 pm
