If you’re planning to celebrate Halloween in the Big Apple this year, you’re in for a thrilling treat.
New York City transforms into a spooky playground each October, with spectacular events, vivid theatrics, and fantastic vibes across all five boroughs.
Whether you’re looking for family-friendly fun, a wild costume parade, or a late-night party, this 2025 Halloween guide will highlight the key events you don’t want to miss — and help you plan your getaway.
The iconic village Halloween parade
The crown jewel of Halloween in New York City is the Village Halloween Parade, and the 2025 edition continues the tradition in style. Scheduled for Friday, October 31 at 7:00 PM (rain or shine) on Sixth Avenue through Greenwich Village.
What makes it truly special:
- Anyone in costume can participate or simply watch the spectacle.
- Expect tens of thousands of costumed marchers and millions of spectators.
- The route runs from Canal Street up Sixth Avenue to 15th Street — arrive early for the best vantage spots.
This event is perfect for costume lovers, photographers, or anyone wanting to witness Halloween in NYC at its most dynamic.
Family-Friendly Fun & Dog Parades
For family-friendly celebrations, NYC offers several fantastic options:
- Halloween Harvest Festival (Saturday Oct 25 2025) by NYC Parks features costume contests for kids and even dogs, plus community activities.
- The city-wide Trick-or-Streets festival (Oct 17–Oct 31) turns blocks into car-free, Halloween-themed zones for all ages.
- And for something truly adorable: the Tompkins Square Halloween Dog Parade (Oct 19 2025) where costumed pups march in the East Village — a quirky NYC highlight.
These events are ideal for younger visitors, families, or pet owners looking to join in the spirit without the late-night party scene.
Nightlife, Haunted Houses & Bar Crawls
For the grown-ups or those seeking thrills after dark:
- Halloween bar crawls in NYC are back full-force for 2025. The 2025 NYC Halloween Bar Crawl runs on Oct 31 & Nov 1 — expect immersive nightlife, costume vibes, and themed venues.
- Haunted walking tours, catacomb experiences, and immersive horror events are listed across NYC — for example, at Brooklyn’s historic cemeteries and Manhattan’s older catacombs
If you’re looking to party or explore haunted corners of the city, this is your scene. Just plan ahead for transport and late-night logistics.
✅ 4. Planning tips & visitor info
- Costumes are key: Many events invite you to dress up — especially the Village Parade.
- Best vantage points: For the parade, spots along West 4th Street & 6th Avenue are highly recommended.
- Check official sources: NYC government site lists numerous autumn/halloween-themed events.
- Transportation: Expect subway rush on Oct 31 evening — allow extra time and pick a viewing zone early.
- Book ahead: Hotels and event tickets fill up quickly for holiday weekends.
- Family vs late night: Choose your outing timeframe — daytime kid-friendly festivals vs late-night adult events.
- Weather & layering: Late October in NYC can be cool (50-60 °F / 10-15 °C) — bring a jacket over your costume.
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With the Village Halloween Parade, city-wide street events, themed bar crawls, dog parades and more — 2025 promises to be one of the best Halloween seasons in New York City yet.
From families to night owls, there’s something unforgettable for everyone. Don’t just visit NYC for Halloween — live it.
