For 50 years, New York’s Greenwich Village has hosted the biggest, most creative Halloween celebration in the country – the NYC Village Halloween Parade. Winding a 1.4-mile route along Sixth Avenue from Spring Street up to 15th Street, the parade has grown from a local novelty to a world-famous Village institution.

What started in 1973 as a simple neighborhood walk for children organized by puppeteer Ralph Lee has transformed into the spookiest procession in the city, attracting 60,000 wildly costumed participants and over 2 million spectators lining the parade route each year.

After stepping off at 7pm on October 31st, the parade runs for about two hours up Sixth Avenue. Elaborate floats, giant puppets requiring dozens to operate, dancers, bands, artists, and performers all join the procession through Greenwich Village. Costumed marchers can join freely – no registration or tickets required. Just arrive in your most imaginative costume.

For 2023, the parade’s theme is “Upside Down Inside Out” – encouraging dressing up in costumes that reveal your inner self, fantasies, dreams, fears, or truths. Have fun turning your costume ideas inside out and upside down. Parade goers always use the theme as inspiration for their elaborate disguises.

In the past, themes have covered important issues like climate change, social justice, or LGBTQ+ pride. But the focus is always on celebrating freedom, diversity, and vibrant self-expression.

EVGB’s Luxury Amenities and East Village Lifestyle

EVGB is located in the East Village on 14th Street, a short distance from the Village Halloween parade route. For city dwellers who appreciate thriving neighborhoods with beloved local traditions, EVGB offers the total package – easy access to the Village’s iconic celebrations, plus upgraded amenities and a lively on-site community.

Residents can easily prepare for the parade’s costumes and fanfare at the on-site Target for candy and last-minute costume supplies. After enjoying the pageantry, participants can simply walk home to EVGB’s prime location to rest and reminisce about the night’s festivities.