The West Hollywood Halloween Parade, also called the West Hollywood Halloween Carnaval, is one of the most exciting Halloween events in the United States.
Every October 31, Santa Monica Boulevard bursts into life with music, costumes, and over half a million people ready to celebrate.
In 2025, the parade is set to return bigger and brighter than ever. The streets will fill with elaborate costumes, DJs, food stalls, and a party atmosphere unlike any other.
If you’ve been wondering when and where it happens, the good news is that it’s already confirmed.
This event isn’t just about walking down a street in a costume. It’s about becoming part of a living, breathing piece of Los Angeles culture.
West Hollywood Halloween Parade 2025
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date | Friday, October 31, 2025 |
| Time | 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM |
| Location | Santa Monica Blvd, from North Doheny Drive to North La Cienega Blvd |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Expected Crowd | Around 500,000 attendees |
| Main Attractions | Live DJs, performance stages, themed bars, photo spots |
| Official Website | Visit West Hollywood – Halloween Carnaval |
History and Origins
The West Hollywood Halloween Parade began in the mid-1980s as a small neighborhood celebration. Over the years, it has grown into a massive street festival recognized worldwide.
Initially, it was a local gathering where residents showcased creative costumes. Now, it attracts international visitors, celebrities, and professional performers.
Its success comes from the city’s commitment to inclusivity, creativity, and free public celebration.
Local businesses, city officials, and community organizations all play a role in keeping the parade a safe and welcoming event. It’s more than just a party it’s a symbol of West Hollywood’s artistic and diverse spirit.
Date, Time, and Location Details
For 2025, the West Hollywood Halloween Parade will take place on Friday, October 31, starting at 6 PM and wrapping up at 11 PM.
The parade runs along Santa Monica Boulevard, stretching a full mile between North Doheny Drive and North La Cienega Boulevard. This section of the boulevard will be closed to vehicles during the event, creating a safe space for attendees.
The best spots to enjoy the spectacle are near the main stages, which are usually set up at key intersections. Arriving early helps you secure a good viewing point and avoid the heaviest crowds.
Parade Map
How to Participate
Participation in the parade is open to everyone, and you don’t need a ticket to walk the boulevard. Costumes are encouraged the bolder and more creative, the better.
If you plan to perform, volunteer, or set up a booth, you’ll need to register with the city ahead of time. Volunteer spots often include assisting with crowd control, stage setup, or guest support.
While there’s no official age restriction, the event’s atmosphere is energetic and often adult-themed. Families with young children might prefer to attend earlier in the evening before the crowd peaks.
Viewing Tips and Best Spots
If you want less crowded viewing areas, head toward the eastern end of Santa Monica Boulevard closer to La Cienega Boulevard. The western end near Doheny Drive tends to pack in early.
Photographers will find the best lighting just after sunset when the streetlights and stage effects begin to shine. For comfort, wear shoes suitable for standing and walking, as the event covers a large area.
Wheelchair-accessible spaces are available along the route, but arriving early is the best way to secure a good spot. Public transportation is highly recommended, as parking will be extremely limited.
Costumes and Themes
Costumes are the heart of the West Hollywood Halloween Parade. Every year, the boulevard transforms into a showcase of creativity, from handcrafted fantasy outfits to movie-quality replicas.
In 2025, there’s no official parade-wide theme, so attendees have the freedom to dress however they like. This means you’ll see a mix of pop culture characters, historical figures, horror classics, and jaw-dropping original designs.
If you want to stand out, think beyond store-bought costumes. Incorporate lights, interactive props, or group themes with friends. Many costumes double as performance art, so adding movement or sound can make you unforgettable.
Entertainment and Highlights
The parade isn’t just about walking in costume it’s a street festival with entertainment everywhere you look. Multiple performance stages line the route, each featuring DJs, live bands, and dance groups.
One of the biggest draws is the variety of music. From electronic beats to rock covers of Halloween classics, the soundtrack is as diverse as the crowd.
Local drag performers, celebrity appearances, and impromptu dance-offs often become the night’s most talked-about moments.
Food and drink vendors keep the party fueled, and many nearby bars join in with Halloween-themed cocktails. For many, the afterparties are as legendary as the parade itself, with clubs hosting special late-night events.
Travel and Accommodation
If you’re coming from outside Los Angeles, the nearest major airport is Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), about a 30-minute drive without traffic.
Hollywood Burbank Airport is another option, especially if you’re staying on the northern side of the city.
Hotels near Santa Monica Boulevard fill up quickly for Halloween night, so booking early is essential. Popular options include The London West Hollywood, Montrose at Beverly Hills, and Ramada Plaza West Hollywood.
Parking near the route will be extremely limited. Public transportation is the smartest choice, with buses and rideshare drop-offs close to the event area.
West Hollywood also offers special Halloween night services like the free PickUp trolley and Cityline shuttle.
Food and Local Experiences
Halloween night in West Hollywood is as much about the food as the costumes. Food trucks park along and near the parade route, serving everything from gourmet tacos to vampire-themed cupcakes.
Local restaurants and bars often create special Halloween menus. Expect spooky cocktails, pumpkin-flavored treats, and creatively presented dishes. Many venues decorate their interiors to match the holiday spirit, making them part of the night’s attractions.
If you arrive early, you can explore nearby areas like the Sunset Strip or Melrose Avenue. Both are filled with shopping, dining, and pre-parade entertainment that keep the energy going before the main event.
Safety and Rules
The West Hollywood Halloween Parade is designed to be a safe and welcoming space, but there are clear guidelines every attendee should follow.
Large bags, backpacks, and camera bags are not allowed. Small clear plastic bags are permitted and make security checks faster.
Alcohol is not permitted on the streets, though bars and restaurants along the route can sell drinks for on-site consumption. Weapons, fireworks, and drones are prohibited for safety reasons.
Due to the size of the crowd, the city advises against bringing pets or small children. If you’re attending with friends, plan a meeting spot in case you get separated. With half a million people expected, phone signals can be unreliable.
Photography and Social Media Tips
Photography is a huge part of the West Hollywood Halloween Parade experience. The best lighting for photos comes just after sunset, when the streetlights and stage effects create a dramatic glow.
If you’re aiming for professional-quality shots, arrive early to secure a spot with a clear view of the route. However, avoid bringing bulky camera gear unless it’s essential — security checks can slow you down.
On social media, use the parade’s popular hashtags, such as #WeHoHalloween and #WeHoCarnaval, to share your photos and connect with other attendees. Tagging official city accounts can also get your shots featured on their pages.
Conclusion
The West Hollywood Halloween Parade 2025 promises a night of color, music, and unforgettable costumes along Santa Monica Boulevard.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned attendee, the combination of live entertainment, creative energy, and community spirit makes this parade one of the best Halloween experiences anywhere.
From securing a prime spot to enjoying themed food and afterparties, the key to making the most of the event is preparation.
With the date and details set, now’s the time to plan your visit, pick your costume, and join one of the largest and most vibrant Halloween celebrations in the world.
FAQs
Yes, the West Hollywood Halloween Parade is completely free.
No tickets are required for entry or participation in the parade.
While children are allowed, the event can get crowded and the costumes may not always be kid-friendly.
Public transit, rideshare, or walking from a nearby hotel is recommended. Parking is extremely limited.
No, alcohol consumption is prohibited on the streets, though bars and restaurants along the route serve drinks.