THRILLER NIGHT
New York’s Village Halloween Parade

In its 32nd year the Halloween Parade in Greenwich Village has no shortage of accolades. It’s considered the nation’s largest public Halloween celebration; it was named “The Greatest Event on Earth” by Festivals International; it’s the nation’s only major night parade; and it received mention in the book 100 Things To Do Before You Die.

What is now a major show originally started in 1973 by a Greenwich Village puppeteer and mask maker that led children from door to door. Theater for the New City stepped in two years later, and so began the parade extravaganza that is closer to what can be viewed today. It still retains its tradition of puppetry, with giant ghostly visions gliding down the street, and in 2001 after the events of 9/11, one puppet of note was a symbolic phoenix emerging from the ashes.

The theme this year is “The Village Hearth,” and feel free to either participate in the parade or simply observe. Whatever you do, watch out for the two million people typically in attendance vying for a good view.

When: October 31, 7 p.m. for watching, between 6:30-8 p.m. for participating since it takes two hours to leave the staging area.

Where: Participants need to go to the start of the parade at 6th Avenue. south of Spring Street; spectators can find the parade winding through the streets of Greenwich Village.

Price: Free

Information: www.halloween-nyc.com

Find out about other "What's Going On" events in New York.