Each year, everyone looks forward to the annual NYC Village Halloween Parade, one of NYC’s best Halloween events. The popular celebration takes over the neighborhood of Greenwich Village, bringing thousands of ghouls and ghosts to NYC streets for an epic celebration that spooks even the bravest New Yorkers.
Here’s everything you need to know about the 2024 edition of the famous NYC Village Halloween Parade:
When is the NYC Village Halloween Parade?
Following the recent passing of Ralph Lee, the founder of the Village Halloween Parade, his legacy will live on as New York’s most iconic Halloween event is returning once again on Thursday, October 31st.
What is the Village Halloween Parade route?
The Village Halloween Parade this year runs up Sixth Ave from King St to 15th St in Manhattan.
What is this year’s theme?
This year’s theme is MEOW !!!, encouraging people to “don their finest tails and whiskers, and join the Ball.” The parade organizers are asking all “Cat Ladies to UNITE!!!” and join on the special section of the parade dedicated to this year’s theme!
Can I participate in the Village Halloween Parade?
Of course, as always, everyone participating in the parade must wear a costume, so be sure to have yours ready!
Those joining the parade can do so by arriving at the entrance point ready to go in full costume. You can enter the parade either from the east or the south, meaning Sullivan, East Broome, and Canal Streets. Arrival times are typically between 6:30 pm and 9 pm or you risk missing the parade!
When does the Village Halloween Parade begin?
The parade begins at 7 pm and lasts until about 11 pm. The streets are most crowded between Bleecker and 14th Street, so you may want to consider getting there early or trying another place along the route if the area you show up is seems too crowded.
This is a totally free public event, however, if you want to avoid the crowds and be in a special VIP area to watch the parade, you can purchase tickets here.
How many people participate in the Village Halloween Parade?
The parade usually attracts 60,000 participants, 2 million in-person spectators, and 2 million TV viewers.
Who is the Grand Marshal for this year’s Village Halloween parade?
This year’s Grand Marshal for the parade is Broadway icon Andre de Shields!
How to stream the Village Halloween Parade
For New Yorkers who can’t make it in person to this year’s Village Halloween Parade, it will be live streamed/televised on NY1 from 8 – 9:30 pm.
Please note: Parade organizers have a zero tolerance policy when it comes to alcohol, so don’t show up drunk if you want to take part in the festivities!