Linden’s 65th Halloween Parade

This year, a wonderful autumn tradition will continue in Linden at the end of October.
On Sunday, October 30th at 2:00 p.m., marchers will step-off for the 65th edition of Linden’s Halloween Parade. The parade will begin on South Wood Avenue near Route 1, and will proceed north toward City Hall and continue to Curtis Street. The total length of the march is approximately 1 mile.
According to the Parade Planning Committee, this year’s parade will feature many new participants including municipal dignitaries, marching bands, decorated floats and performing groups. As in past years, most Linden schools are well represented with themed floats and children in costume. As is tradition, the end of the parade will feature a visit by Santa Claus to help officially kick-off the holiday season. “We’re thrilled with the response we’ve gotten from our municipality, our schools, and generous sponsors. We were able to build the Line of March by approximately 40% over last year’s parade” stated Carl Pereira, Linden Halloween Parade Committee President.
“We expect a large crowd of spectators this year, and they won’t be disappointed” he said. Many marching groups will stop and perform in front of grandstands erected at City Hall near Wood Avenue and Knopf Street, and that’s where crowds are usually the largest. Carl added, “This year we are very fortunate to have received donations from Linden’s business and corporate community. Their gracious generosity exemplifies the dedication and desire to keep a great Linden tradition alive and well, year after year”
The parade has always named a Grand Marshal, honoring an individual who has given of their time and generosity in helping to continue the legacy of the event. This year the committee has chosen the late Jack Sheehy as posthumous Grand Marshal. Mr. Sheehy was a past Committee member, parade volunteer, and former Councilman of Linden’s 7th ward.
The theme for this year’s parade will be to honor Linden’s First Responders – Linden Police Department, Linden Fire Department, Linden OEM, and Linden 911 Dispatchers. The Halloween Parade Planning Committee will continue to meet every Wednesday at 7:00PM, at the JTG Recreation Center on Helen Street. Volunteers are always welcome. If you would like to participate in any way or by marching as a group, individual or enter a decorated vehicle or float of any size, please call: 908-474-8639 or visit our website at www.linden-nj.org. For parade updates, please visit the committee on Facebook at 2016 Linden Halloween Parade.