New Bedford South End Halloween Parade Returning for 56th Year

NEW BEDFORD (WBSM) — A Halloween tradition is returning to New Bedford’s South End for the 56th year.

For more than half a century, the city’s children have gathered in the South End for the annual Halloween parade.

New Bedford City Councilor at Large Ian Abreu and Ward 6 Councilor Ryan Pereira are once again teaming up to put on the parade, which has grown to become more than just a South End event.

“The annual South End Halloween Parade continues to grow each and every year, as we are seeing more and more children and members of our community participating,” Abreu said.

“It used to be just something South End kids and their families took part in, but, as we are seeing every year now, people from all throughout the city and region are now coming down for what has become such a fun Halloween tradition,” he said.

The parade will meet at Hazelwood Park at 6:30 p.m. on Halloween, October 31, and step off promptly at 7 p.m. The kids, dressed in their Halloween costumes, will march from Hazelwood to Clegg Field on Brock Avenue.

The event will also feature music, costume contests, hot chocolate, and of course plenty of candy.

“What makes our event and costume contest so much fun is that it is all 100 percent free,” Abreu said. “Free candy, hot chocolate, snacks, live musical entertainment and cash prizes for the best costumes, too, courtesy of all of our generous sponsors.”

While Abreu usually likes to keep his family’s Halloween costume theme under wraps until the big day, Pereira has his own “super” Halloween tradition.

“I am beyond happy to be a part of the annual Halloween parade in the South End. I've been participating in it since I was a kid and continue to enjoy it with the entire South End community,” Pereira said. “Plus, it gives me an excuse to put on my Superman costume every year.”

For more details on the parade, follow the event page on Facebook.