Toms River Halloween Parade 2026: Date, Time, Registration, and Best Viewing Spots

I never thought that as a full-grown adult, my favorite thing to look forward to each year would be a Halloween Parade. Then I moved to Ocean County and experienced firsthand the Toms River Halloween Parade.

Why This Year's Toms River Halloween Parade Is Going To Be Huge

It's one of the biggest Halloween parades in the entire country, and for 2026, it's going to be bigger and more exciting due strictly to the fact that Halloween, the day the parade takes place, is on a Saturday night. In addition, this year's parade is going to feature a little patriotic twist to celebrate America's 250th.

When Is The Toms River Halloween Parade 2026?

Bare basics here: the Toms River Halloween Parade will take place in Downtown Toms River on Saturday, October 31st, 2026, and the step-off time is 7 PM. I usually see people lining the streets, saving spots, early in the morning.

When And Where Do You Register For The 2026 Halloween Parade?

You can register to be in the parade every Tuesday in October at the Toms River Firehouse on Robbins Street between 6 PM and 8 PM, according to Toms River. You can also register the day of the parade between 8 AM and 5 PM.

I've had my band, Right On!, in the parade every year since moving to Toms River, and it makes your life much easier if you sign up sooner rather than later!

The Toms River Halloween Parade Celebrates America's 250th This Year

This year, the Halloween Parade will feel more patriotic too, since we're celebrating America's 250th birthday; you can expect patriotic floats, costumes, and red, white, and blue flair.

Best Spots To Sit And Watch The Toms River Halloween Parade

The parade is free to attend, but again, you'll want to get there early to get a good spot. I'd reccomend either Main Street/166 in Toms River above Washington Street, or right on Washington Street near the Municipal Building. Both are great areas to watch!