Anoka Halloween
Signature Event
Celebrate Halloween in the “Halloween Capital of the World!” Anoka’s month-long celebration returns for its 106th season with parades, costume contests, pumpkin activities, community events and plenty of family-friendly Halloween fun.
The tradition began in 1920, when Anoka organized a community celebration to give local children an alternative to Halloween pranks. More than a century later, the celebration continues to bring residents and visitors together throughout October while supporting local student scholarships and elementary schools.
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Event Features:
Light Up the Night Parade
October 17, 2026 | 7–8 PM
Watch downtown Anoka come alive as illuminated floats, performers and community groups travel along Main Street during this nighttime parade.
Big Parade of Little People
October 23, 2026 | 1:15–2:15 PM
Celebrate one of Anoka Halloween’s oldest traditions as local elementary students, marching bands and costumed participants parade through historic downtown Anoka.
Grande Day Parade
October 24, 2026 | 1–3:30 PM
The signature Grande Day Parade features colorful floats, marching bands, performers and community groups traveling along a 1.5-mile route through downtown Anoka.
Anoka Halloween Ambassador Coronation
October 24, 2026 | 6–8 PM
Close out Grande Day by celebrating the outgoing ambassadors and welcoming the newly crowned Anoka Halloween Royal Ambassadors.
Additional events throughout October include the Great Pumpkin Expo, bingo nights, costume contests, a children’s pumpkin-carving contest, a medallion hunt and a community house-decorating contest.
