Halloween Events and Things to Do with Kids on Halloween Day in NJ

Can you imagine telling your kids to throw on their fairy costumes and run around the neighborhood, in the dark, without you, ringing strangers’ doorbells and asking for candy?  Ahhh...the good old days. But while door-to-door trick-or-treating seems to be quickly becoming a tradition of the past, Halloween remains a children’s holiday to be enjoyed with great gusto–so grab those costumes, get out there and celebrate the ghoulish fest with a slew of October 31st events sure to raise everyone’s spirits!

72nd Annual Toms River Volunteer Fire Company #1 Halloween Parade (Toms River)
Did you know the second largest Halloween parade in the world is right here in New Jersey?  The 72nd Annual Toms River Volunteer Fire Company #1 Halloween Parade boasts over 6,000 participants-- some wearing simple masks, some riding full-blown,  fire-breathing floats--and 100,000 spectators filled with Halloween spirit.  The parade starts at 7:00 pm, but it’s recommended that you arrive 2 hours prior, and bring blankets and chairs. Oh, and trick-or-treat bags, too, to catch all that candy thrown to you!  FREE       

Rag-A-Muffin Parade & Costume Contest (Hoboken)
Looking for a smaller showcase for your costumes?  Check out this local parade featuring marching bands, floats and a costume contest complete with prizes from area businesses.
Participants should be at Washington Street between 13th & 14th Streets by 12:15pm, and the parade begins at 1pm. FREE

Halloween at Historic Speedwell Village (Morristown)
Go back in time, and experience a mid-19th century Halloween at Historic Speedwell Village.  Listen to terrifying ghost stories and participate in a variety of Halloween fun and games.  Children are encouraged to come in costume and participate in an old-fashioned costume parade, with prizes for all participants.  10am - 4pm $4 adults, $2 children.

Howl-oween at the Turtle Back Zoo (West Orange)
Be a Halloween party animal!! Come in costume and trick-or-treat at Turtle Back Zoo during the Howl-oween celebration. Ride the "spooky train", and prepare to be dazzled by master magician Joe Fisher. 5pm - 8pm. $2 admission, Children under 2 FREE.

In addition to these great, one-day-only events, remember to check our postings covering on-going Halloween happenings.  You can use the day to catch a haunted hayride, pick a pumpkin, visit a haunted house, or tackle a haunted train ride–this’ll be your last chance ‘til next year!

NOTE: Many of these events are weather-dependent.  Please utilize the above web links to contact the event organization prior to heading out.