Expect to see a creative menagerie, from artist-designed cat puppets to a section of feline-inspired marchers led by Cat Ladies Unite.Ready to join in? Here’s what you need to know to have the ultimate Village Halloween Parade experience.When Does the Parade Start?
The parade officially kicks off at 7 p.m., but early arrival is highly recommended. With over 50,000 marchers and more than a million onlookers, it’s best to stake out your spot in advance.Can I March in the Parade?
Absolutely! Anyone can march for free, but you must be in costume. After all, this is New York, so bring your creativity—no quick Jason masks and jeans here! If you’re ready to walk, head to 6th Avenue and Canal Street between 6:30 p.m. and 9 p.m.Route & Best Viewing Spots
The parade snakes up 6th Avenue, starting at Canal Street and ending at West 15th Street. The best viewing areas are from the east and west of 6th Avenue between King Street and West 15th, though Bleecker to 14th Street tends to get especially crowded.Getting There and Street Closures
Driving is discouraged as street closures are extensive. Public transportation is your best bet. Here’s a quick rundown:Subway Access:
For those not attending, the parade will be broadcast on NY1 from 8 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.When and Where to Celebrate After
The parade officially wraps around 11 p.m., but the party continues at Webster Hall’s Webster Hell bash. Doors open at 9 p.m., with a costume contest starting at midnight. The winner takes home $3,500, so be ready to wow!
The parade officially kicks off at 7 p.m., but early arrival is highly recommended. With over 50,000 marchers and more than a million onlookers, it’s best to stake out your spot in advance.Can I March in the Parade?
Absolutely! Anyone can march for free, but you must be in costume. After all, this is New York, so bring your creativity—no quick Jason masks and jeans here! If you’re ready to walk, head to 6th Avenue and Canal Street between 6:30 p.m. and 9 p.m.Route & Best Viewing Spots
The parade snakes up 6th Avenue, starting at Canal Street and ending at West 15th Street. The best viewing areas are from the east and west of 6th Avenue between King Street and West 15th, though Bleecker to 14th Street tends to get especially crowded.Getting There and Street Closures
Driving is discouraged as street closures are extensive. Public transportation is your best bet. Here’s a quick rundown:Subway Access:
- L train at 14th Street: Regular service
- Southbound C,E trains: Skipping Spring Street from 5-10 p.m. (exit-only northbound)
- 14th St/6th Ave on the L,F,M lines: Some exits only, check in advance
- West 4th St station (A,B,C,D,E,F,M): Entrance/exit restrictions vary with crowds
- 6th Avenue (B,D,F,Q) to 23rd, 14th, and West 4th Street
- 7th Avenue (1,2,3) to 23rd, 18th, 14th, Sheridan Square, or Houston Street
- 8th Avenue (A,C,E) to West 4th, Spring (closest to line-up), and Canal Street
- PATH trains from NJ stopping at 9th, 14th, and 23rd Streets.
- Formation: 6th Ave from Spring to Canal St., plus nearby streets
- Route: 6th Ave from Canal to West 18th St.
- Dispersal: West 16th-18th Sts. between 5th and 7th Aves, plus nearby streets
- Miscellaneous: Several other nearby streets, including Van Dam and West 10th Street
For those not attending, the parade will be broadcast on NY1 from 8 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.When and Where to Celebrate After
The parade officially wraps around 11 p.m., but the party continues at Webster Hall’s Webster Hell bash. Doors open at 9 p.m., with a costume contest starting at midnight. The winner takes home $3,500, so be ready to wow!
