Toms River Halloween Parade 2026: Patriotic Theme, Local Hero Honored

Toms River Halloween Parade 2026 to Honor Ex‑Chief Albert McDaniel as Grand Marshal

Patriotic 250th Anniversary Theme Added to One of America’s Largest Halloween Parades

TOMS RIVER, NJ — The legendary Toms River Halloween Parade, one of the largest Halloween parades in the United States, returns on Saturday, October 31, 2026, stepping off at 7 p.m. through Downtown Toms River. This year’s celebration carries special significance, honoring a local hero and marking a historic national milestone.

⭐ Grand Marshal: Ex‑Chief Albert McDaniel — 50+ Years of Service

This year’s Grand Marshal is Ex‑Chief Albert McDaniel, recognized for more than 50 years of dedicated volunteer service to the Toms River community. His leadership, commitment, and decades of service make this honor deeply meaningful and widely celebrated.

McDaniel’s long-standing impact reflects the heart of the parade itself — community, tradition, and pride.

🇺🇸 A Patriotic Twist for America’s 250th Anniversary

In addition to Halloween festivities, the 2026 parade will feature a special patriotic theme celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary (1776–2026). Expect floats, costumes, and displays blending Halloween creativity with red, white, and blue flair throughout the parade route.

🎃 A Signature Event Hosted by Toms River Fire Company #1

The parade is organized and expertly handled each year by Toms River Fire Company #1, whose volunteers manage logistics, registration, staging, safety, and the massive turnout with exceptional professionalism. Their dedication is a major reason the parade has grown into a nationally recognized Halloween tradition.

📅 Event Details

Date: Saturday, October 31, 2026
Step‑Off Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Downtown Toms River (Washington Street)
Admission: Free to watch
Organizer: Toms River Volunteer Fire Co. #1
Registration:
- Tuesdays in October at the Robbins Street Firehouse
- Parade Day Registration: 8 AM – 5 PM

🎡 Part of Toms River’s Full Halloween Lineup

The parade anchors a month of Halloween programming in Toms River, including:

Scarecrow Walk: October 9–23
Haunted Downtown: October 24

These events, organized in partnership with Downtown Toms River, bring thousands of families into the district each October.

🎭 Floats, Costumes & Community Spirit

Residents, schools, businesses, and organizations are encouraged to begin planning their floats and costumes now. With both Halloween and America’s 250th Anniversary being celebrated, this year’s parade promises to be one of the most visually exciting in its long history.