Toms River Announces 2026 Trick-or-Treat Schedule: When Kids Can Collect Candy

Toms River Announces 2026 Trick-or-Treat Schedule: When Kids Can Collect Candy

Halloween is almost here, and families across Toms River are getting ready for costumes, candy and plenty of spooky fun. But if you’re planning to take the kids trick-or-treating, there’s an important date to remember.

Trick-or-Treating Comes Early in Toms River

Toms River and several nearby communities will celebrate trick-or-treating on Friday, October 30, 2026, rather than Halloween night.

The communities participating include Toms River, Pine Beach, Beachwood, South Toms River and Island Heights.

Official trick-or-treating hours are scheduled for 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

The early celebration allows families to enjoy trick-or-treating without conflicting with the annual Toms River Halloween Parade, which is scheduled for Halloween night, Saturday, October 31.

Some Trick-or-Treaters May Start Earlier

Families with younger children may see trick-or-treaters out before the official 4 p.m. start. Some children could begin visiting homes as early as around 2 p.m., particularly after school.

Residents who plan to hand out candy may want to have treats ready earlier in the afternoon.

What About Other New Jersey Towns?

Not every community follows the same trick-or-treating schedule. Since Halloween falls on a Saturday in 2026, many municipalities are expected to hold their celebrations on Saturday, October 31.

Times can vary from town to town, so families should check with their local municipality for official hours, rules and any curfews.

Don't Forget the Toms River Halloween Parade

The early trick-or-treating schedule gives local families a chance to enjoy both of Toms River's biggest Halloween traditions.

After collecting candy on Friday, families can return to downtown Toms River on Saturday, October 31, for the annual Halloween Parade. With costumes, floats and plenty of Halloween spirit, the parade remains one of the area's most anticipated traditions.

Get Ready for Halloween

Whether you're taking the kids around the neighborhood, decorating your home or heading downtown for the parade, Halloween weekend is shaping up to be a busy one in Toms River.

So get those costumes ready, stock up on candy and mark Friday, October 30, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. on your calendar for trick-or-treating in Toms River and the surrounding participating communities.

As Halloween approaches, families should continue checking local announcements for any last-minute changes. Before you go out check out the local forecast.