Toms River Halloween Parade Returns for Its 87th Year on Halloween Night

Toms River Halloween Parade Returns for Its 87th Year on Halloween Night

Downtown Toms River is getting ready for one of the Jersey Shore’s biggest Halloween traditions as the 87th Annual Toms River Halloween Parade returns on Saturday, October 31, 2026.

The beloved parade will step off at 7 p.m., bringing elaborate costumes, decorated floats, marching groups, vehicles and plenty of Halloween spirit to downtown Toms River. The event is presented by Toms River Volunteer Fire Company No. 1 and is free for spectators.

A Halloween Night Tradition

The Toms River Halloween Parade has become a signature Ocean County event, attracting large crowds to downtown each year.

Spectators can expect to see everything from creative individual costumes and decorated vehicles to elaborate floats, marching bands and community groups making their way through the parade route.

This year could be especially exciting because Halloween falls on a Saturday night, giving families and visitors the opportunity to enjoy the festivities without a school or work night immediately following.

When and Where

📅 Date: Saturday, October 31, 2026

⏰ Parade: 7 p.m.

📍 Location: Downtown Toms River

🎟️ Admission: Free

The parade will begin near Main Street and Highland Parkway, travel south along Main Street, turn onto Washington Street and finish near Washington Street and Hooper Avenue.

A Special Year for the Parade

The 2026 parade also comes during America's 250th anniversary year, giving participants another opportunity to incorporate patriotic themes into their costumes, floats and displays.

The parade's Grand Marshal will be former Toms River Fire Company No. 1 Chief Albert McDaniel, who has more than 50 years of service with the department.

Want to Be Part of the Parade?

Those interested in participating can register at the Toms River Volunteer Fire Company No. 1 firehouse on Robbins Street during October registration sessions. Ocean County Tourism lists registration on October 13, 20 and 27 from 6–8 p.m., with parade-day registration available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Whether you're marching in the parade or watching from the sidelines, the event is expected to turn downtown Toms River into a spectacular Halloween celebration.

Plan Ahead

Anyone planning to attend should arrive early and allow extra time for parking, walking and the large crowds expected throughout downtown.

With Halloween falling on a Saturday and the parade celebrating its 87th year, October 31 is shaping up to be a memorable night in Toms River.

So grab your costume, bring the family and get ready for one of Ocean County's biggest Halloween traditions! Visit Toms River Fire Co#1 for any additional information or updates.