Long before trick-or-treating was the focus of the holiday, Halloween was a time for neighborhood kids to play pranks and make mischief. Soaped windows, uprooted fences, and damaged property became a major headache for Anaheim residents and businesses. In 1923, to steer the local kiddies’ energies toward more wholesome fun, the local merchants association devised a Halloweentime festival with games and costume contests.
The festival was a hit! The following year, a nighttime parade was added to the celebration, and Anaheim’s Fall Festival and Halloween Parade quickly became one of the biggest Halloween celebrations in the nation.
Over the past century, the Anaheim Fall Festival and Halloween Parade has grown along with the community, all thanks to the dedication and hard work of volunteers and local businesses. Keeping true to the event’s vibrant history, you’ll find family friendly games and crafts, live performances, local artists, tasty foods, and community-built floats harkening back to the parade’s early years. Come celebrate with us this year as we move into a new century of our tradition! Even if it’s your first time joining us, it’s never too late to be a part of our next 100 years.
