Ocean City Celebrates 78th Annual Halloween Parade on Asbury Avenue
Ocean City celebrated its 78th annual Halloween Parade on Thursday, October 29, bringing costumes, decorated floats, marching bands, and community spirit to downtown Asbury Avenue.
A Halloween Tradition Brings the Community Together
Ocean City's annual Halloween Parade returned to downtown Asbury Avenue on Thursday evening, October 29, continuing one of the community's longest-running fall traditions.
The 78th annual parade, organized by the Ocean City Exchange Club, brought another evening of Halloween festivities to the downtown district. Participants showcased creative costumes, decorated floats, and community spirit as spectators gathered along Asbury Avenue to enjoy the celebration.
The procession began at 7:15 p.m. at Sixth Street, traveling north along Asbury Avenue toward 11th Street.
For year-round residents, seasonal homeowners, and visiting families, the parade provided another opportunity to enjoy Ocean City beyond the traditional summer season.
Highlights of the Ocean City Halloween Parade
The annual parade featured the familiar elements that have made it a popular Ocean City tradition over the years.
Marching bands, community floats, civic organizations, and costume participants were part of the evening's festivities. Families and spectators lined the parade route to enjoy the decorations and Halloween creativity on display.
The event also brought activity back to downtown Asbury Avenue during the fall season, giving local residents and visitors another reason to spend an evening in Ocean City.
Organized by the Ocean City Exchange Club, the Halloween Parade remains an important part of the city's autumn calendar.
Halloween House Decorating Contest Adds to the Celebration
The parade was also part of Ocean City's broader Halloween programming, which included the seventh annual Halloween House Decorating Contest.
The contest gives residents an opportunity to show off their Halloween decorations and creativity, adding to the seasonal atmosphere throughout the community.
The decorating contest and the annual parade are separate activities, but both help make October a festive time in Ocean City.
Trick-or-Treating Still Ahead on October 31
Although the Halloween Parade has wrapped up, Ocean City's Halloween celebrations continue through the weekend.
The city has scheduled neighborhood trick-or-treating for Saturday, October 31, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Parents and guardians should keep the official hours in mind when planning Halloween activities with children. Residents and visitors should also remain mindful of pedestrian safety, particularly in busier neighborhood areas.
Ocean City's Fall Traditions Continue
The Halloween Parade is another reminder that Ocean City's community calendar doesn't slow down when summer ends.
For second homeowners who typically visit during the warmer months, fall events like this provide an opportunity to experience a different side of the island. For year-round residents, the parade continues a familiar tradition that brings families, local organizations, and neighbors together.
With the 78th annual Halloween Parade now behind us, Ocean City residents can look forward to the remaining Halloween festivities and the continued traditions that make the community special throughout the year.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Ocean City's 2026 Halloween Parade?
The 78th annual parade took place on Thursday, October 29, 2026.
Where did the parade take place?
The procession traveled along Asbury Avenue from Sixth Street to 11th Street.
What time did the parade begin?
The parade was scheduled to begin at 7:15 p.m.
Who organizes the Ocean City Halloween Parade?
The annual event is organized by the Ocean City Exchange Club.
When is Ocean City trick-or-treating?
Neighborhood trick-or-treating is scheduled for Saturday, October 31, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Sources: City of Ocean City; Ocean City Exchange Club.
