I write this as someone who loves spooky fun and finds Tarrytown’s Halloween Parade uniquely charming. Tarrytown turns magical every October, with creative costumes, community spirit, and historic charm.
The 2025 Tarrytown Halloween Parade takes place the last Saturday of October and draws families and costume lovers from across the region.
It is a local tradition, both cozy and vibrant, and it delivers real-world joy without the tourist crush. You’ll get all the key details right up front, so you know exactly what to expect and why it matters.
Tarrytown Halloween Parade Date, Route,
| Quick Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Date & Time | Saturday, October 25, 2025, at 5 PM |
| Location / Route | Starts at Patriot’s Park, heads south on Broadway to Main Street |
| Duration | About 60 to 90 minutes |
| Entry Fee | Free to watch; registration required to march (for prizes) |
| Expected Crowd | Hundreds to low thousands (village-scale) |
| Highlights | Handmade floats, music, local performances, block party afterward |
| Official Site | tarrytownhalloweenparade.com |
Tarrytown History & Origins
The Tarrytown Halloween Parade began decades ago as a small community event. Local volunteers organized it to bring families together in a festive, safe way.
Over the years it grew not into an overwhelming tourist spectacle, but into a beloved regional tradition. It reflects Tarrytown’s village heritage and neighborly spirit.
I love that it stays charming and manageable, unlike bigger parades where you feel like you lost your soul in the crowd. It’s run by community groups and local government bodies who ensure it keeps its local flavor.
Date, Time & Location Details
The 2025 parade kicks off Saturday, October 25 at 5 PM. You’ll want to be on Broadway by then. The route starts at Patriot’s Park and goes south along Broadway until Main Street.
After the march, there’s a block party near the end of Main Street where locals and visitors mingle. If you arrive early, you’ll get a good spot without feeling frantic.
And yes, I absolutely plan to get there early each year myself those costumes are best admired leisurely, not through a wall of heads.
Tarrytown Halloween Parade Route Map
How to Participate
Anyone with a creative costume and community spirit can join the parade. The only catch? You must register in advance if you want to walk or compete for prizes. Registration is free and handled online through the official parade website.
Costumes are the heart of this event, so put some thought into yours. The rules are simple: keep it safe, respectful, and family-friendly. Props are welcome, but avoid anything sharp, overly heavy, or resembling real weapons.
If you’re under 12, you’ll need a parent or guardian to accompany you. There are no age restrictions beyond that, which means you’ll see toddlers dressed as pumpkins walking beside retirees in elaborate steampunk get-ups. It’s this mix that makes the parade so charming.
Viewing Tips & Best Spots
If you want the best photos, grab a spot along Broadway between Franklin Street and Main Street. This stretch gets great evening light and has enough space to avoid feeling cramped.
Families with kids might prefer the start point near Patriot’s Park. It’s less crowded at the beginning, and you can see participants gearing up before they step off.
Wheelchair users will find smooth sidewalks along most of Broadway, but arrive early for the most accessible curbside space.
October nights in Tarrytown can be chilly. Bring a warm layer, especially if you plan to stay for the block party. A thermos of hot cider doesn’t hurt either I bring mine every year, and it’s saved me from more than one shiver-fest.
Costumes & Themes
The parade doesn’t enforce a single official theme every year, but groups often coordinate their own. You’ll spot everything from classic Halloween monsters to pop culture tributes and elaborate fantasy creations.
There’s a popular costume contest, with categories like Best Group, Best Pet Costume, Funniest, and Most Creative. Winners get small prizes and, more importantly, serious bragging rights until next year.
If you want inspiration, think local legends like the Headless Horseman, given Tarrytown’s Sleepy Hollow connection. Or, lean into humor a giant inflatable slice of pizza always gets laughs and photos.
Entertainment & Highlights
The Tarrytown Halloween Parade is more than just a walk down the street. You’ll see hand-built floats, local marching bands, dance troupes, and the occasional stilt-walker towering above the crowd.
Live music keeps the energy high, with genres ranging from jazz to rock. Drummers often line the route, giving everything a pulsing beat that makes you want to dance in place.
Once the parade ends, the block party kicks in. Expect street food vendors, live DJ sets, and plenty of space to mingle.
It’s the perfect chance to chat with fellow parade-goers, swap costume compliments, and soak up that small-town Halloween magic.
Travel & Accommodation
Tarrytown is easy to reach whether you’re coming from New York City or farther afield. The Metro-North Hudson Line drops you right in the village, just a short walk from the parade route. This is the option I use most years it saves me from parking headaches.
If you’re driving, plan ahead. Parking is limited and streets near the route will close early. Look for lots near the train station or use paid garages in nearby Sleepy Hollow.
Hotels and inns fill quickly in October. For the closest stays, check Tarrytown House Estate, Castle Hotel & Spa, or boutique B&Bs near Main Street.
Budget-friendly travelers often book rooms in neighboring towns like Elmsford or White Plains, then take public transit in.
Food & Local Experiences
The block party has food trucks offering hot cider, kettle corn, tacos, and seasonal treats. These are great for quick bites while you enjoy the music and mingle.
If you want a sit-down meal before or after the parade, Main Street has plenty of options. Favorites include Lefteris Gyro for casual Greek fare, Sweet Grass Grill for farm-to-table dishes, and Horsefeathers a local classic with a cozy, Halloween-perfect vibe.
While you’re in the area, explore Sleepy Hollow Cemetery tours or the Headless Horseman Bridge. These are perfect add-ons to your Halloween weekend and fit the local legend perfectly.
Safety & Rules
The parade is family-friendly, but there are guidelines to keep things safe. Large bags may be subject to inspection, so keep it light. Costumes should allow clear vision and mobility you don’t want to trip over your own cape.
Prohibited items include real weapons, overly realistic replicas, and open alcohol. Police and volunteers are stationed along the route for safety, and first aid is available if needed.
For families with kids, set a meeting spot in case you get separated. Crowds aren’t overwhelming, but things can get busy once the block party starts. I always keep a small flashlight or glow stick handy it’s festive and makes finding each other easier.
Photography & Social Media Tips
The Tarrytown Halloween Parade is a photographer’s dream. If you’re shooting with your phone, aim for spots with streetlamps to keep subjects well-lit after sunset. Golden hour right before 5 PM start gives warm, flattering light for costume portraits.
Use burst mode for action shots of floats or performers. Costumes can be elaborate, and you don’t want to miss a moment. Avoid blocking other spectators stand slightly back and zoom in for a better angle.
For social media, tag #TarrytownHalloweenParade and the official event page. This helps locals see your photos and might even get them featured on community pages.
Conclusion
The Tarrytown Halloween Parade blends small-town charm with creative, over-the-top costumes in a way that feels both personal and festive. From the spirited march down Broadway to the lively block party, it’s a must for anyone who loves Halloween.
If you’ve been before, you know the joy of seeing neighbors, friends, and strangers all celebrating together. If it’s your first time, expect to leave with a full camera roll, a big smile, and maybe a new tradition.
I’d love to hear your own parade stories and tips drop them in the comments or share your best photos. Whether you’re marching, watching, or just passing through, this is one local event worth putting on your October calendar every year.
FAQs
Yes, it’s free to watch. Participation is also free, but marching requires prior registration.
Yes, but only if they’re in costume and comfortable with crowds. There’s even a pet costume category in the contest.
No tickets are required to watch. Registration is only for marching or contest entry.
At least 30–45 minutes before the start. Early arrival ensures a good viewing spot.
Limited parking is available near the train station and select village lots. Public transport is highly recommended.
Not on the parade route. The block party may have designated beverage areas for 21+ guests.