Halloween in New York City is something special. The city goes all in with spooky decorations, elaborate costumes, and themed parties everywhere. But the biggest and most iconic of them all is the Village Halloween Parade, held every year in Greenwich Village. Here are my best tips on where to watch the parade, how to avoid the worst crowds, where to eat nearby, and how to join the parade yourself if you’re feeling adventurous.
About the parade
The Village Halloween Parade takes place on Friday, October 31, 2025, starting at 7 p.m. The parade moves up 6th Avenue from Canal Street to 15th Street and usually runs until around 11 p.m. It’s free to watch, and anyone wearing a costume is welcome to walk in the parade. If you’re not in New York City, the parade will also be broadcast live on NY1 that evening.
This year’s theme is “It’s a Potluck!”, and City Harvest is the Grand Marshal. Being the Grand Marshal means you’re the guest of honor and lead the parade. Each year, an individual or organization is chosen to represent the theme, and this year City Harvest is celebrated for its work fighting food waste and feeding New Yorkers in need.
Where to watch
It gets crowded quickly, especially between Bleecker and 14th Street, so arrive early. I prefer watching a bit further south near SoHo, where the atmosphere is still great but the crowds are slightly thinner. If you plan to grab dinner or head somewhere afterward, stand on the east side of 6th Avenue so you can easily walk toward Hudson Square or the Lower East Side when the parade ends.
A quick tip: agree on a meeting point in advance, preferably a few blocks away, because once the parade starts it’s nearly impossible to find each other in the crowd. And don’t try to cross 6th Avenue during the parade, most side streets are blocked off.
If you don’t want to spend hours waiting in line as a spectator, you can buy tickets to special viewing zones or VIP sections with better visibility. Watching from the sidewalk is still completely free.
How to join the parade
It’s free to participate, but you must wear a costume, otherwise, you won’t be allowed in. Just show up at 6th Avenue and Canal Street between 6:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. and line up. The entry point is usually from Broome Street and Sullivan Street, east of 6th Avenue.
There’s also a “Skip the Line” pass available for purchase, which gives access to a special entry area, backstage access, and the chance to choose which band group to walk with.
You can find more details on tickets and timings on the Village Halloween Parade website
Where to eat
Parts of the area around the parade route close off as early as late afternoon, and restaurants fill up quickly. Here’s how to plan your meal depending on your timing.
Early dinner
Book a table around 5–6 p.m. in West Village or SoHo, but pick a spot a few streets away from 6th Avenue. MacDougal, Hudson, or Thompson Street are good options. That way, you’ll avoid the chaos and can easily walk over to the parade afterward.
After the parade
If you’d rather eat later, head to Hudson Street, Bleecker Street, or Greenwich Avenue, where many restaurants stay open late. You’ll also find cozy bars here if you just want a glass of wine or a cocktail before heading home.
Quick bite beforehand
In a rush? Grab a pizza slice, a burger, or some falafel on MacDougal Street, or a coffee-to-go around Spring Street before finding your spot along the route.
Practical tips
Take the subway. It’s impossible to find parking, and many streets are closed.
Dress warmly, especially if you plan to stand still for a few hours.
Bring a power bank for your phone if you’re taking photos or filming.
Bring water and maybe a snack. Restrooms are hard to find.
If you’re bringing kids, stay further south near SoHo, where the vibe is a bit calmer.
Suggested timeline
5:00 p.m.: Early dinner in SoHo or West Village
6:00 p.m.: Head toward the route and find a good viewing spot
7:00 p.m.: Parade starts
After 9:30 p.m.: Late dinner or a drink once the crowds start thinning out
Whether you’re watching from the sidewalk or walking in the parade, it’s an experience you’ll never forget. It’s New York at its very best, creative, energetic, and filled with costumes ranging from wild to wonderfully weird.
Happy Halloween in New York City!
