The world's largest Halloween parade will take place in New York City.

This October, New York City will once again host the world's largest Halloween parade. Greenwich Village will be transformed into the most creative and mystical venue on the planet. SecretNYC tells in more detail.

In 2025, the parade will be held for the 52nd time. Over its long history, it has become an important city tradition. Each year, the procession attracts over 80,000 costumed participants and over 2 million spectators.

Giant dolls, orchestra musicians, dancers and the most unusual mummers appear on the streets.

The atmosphere of this holiday is unique and can only be found in New York.

Date, time and route

Village Parade Halloween The parade will take place on Friday, October 31st. It will begin at 19:00 PM and last until approximately 23:00 PM.

On the subject: Brooklyn Launches Spooky Victorian Streetcar Tour for Halloween

The march will begin at the intersection of Canal Street and Sixth Avenue and will then move along Sixth Avenue to 15th Street.

Only those who come in costume can take part.

Participants should line up at the corner of Canal Street and Sixth Avenue between 18:30 PM and 21:00 PM.

Parade theme

Each year, the procession chooses a special theme. In 2025, it will be "Common Meal."

Organizers call it a "collective feast" that symbolizes community, creativity, and unity in the face of division.

Expect fantastical puppets, "moving tables," and food-inspired costumes—from simple dishes to sumptuous feasts. The parade will be New York's most unusual dinner, where everyone becomes part of the festive table.

How to take part

Participation in the parade is free, but a costume is required.

To join, go to the formation at the corner of Sixth Avenue and Canal Street (entrance only from the east or south sides).

For those who don't want to stand in a long line, there is the option to purchase a VIP ticket or join a special themed column.

Where to see

Spectators should reserve their seats along Sixth Avenue in advance.

The busiest sections are usually between Bleecker Street and 14th Street. More open spaces can be found closer to the beginning of the route (from Spring Street to Houston Street) or closer to the end (from 14th to 15th Streets).

The parade can also be viewed live on NY1 from 20:00 PM to 21:30 PM.

Getting there

The best option is the metro. Parking is almost nonexistent.

Changes to transit service are expected. L line trains will run every 5-8 minutes. Entry and exit restrictions will be in place at some stations (such as Spring St and 14th St/6th Ave).

It is recommended to plan your route in advance using the MTA online service.

History of the parade

The Greenwich Village Parade first began in 1973 as a small masquerade organized by local mask maker Ralph Lee.

Today it is the largest event, recognized by the international festival Festivals International as “The Best Event in the World” on October 31.

Over the decades, the parade has become a symbol of New York City's resilience. In 2001, it commemorated 9/11 with a Phoenix rising from the ashes. In 2017, the parade went ahead despite the terrorist attack that occurred just hours before.

At one time, the director of this event, Jean Fleming, said: “The parade speaks to the soul of New York - it says 'yes' to everyone.”