Southend’s much-loved Halloween Parade is set to light up the seafront once again this October, returning for its fifth year with more lights, music and spooky fun than ever before.
Taking place this year on Saturday 25 October 2025, the popular free event invites schools, performers, dance groups, theatre troupes and creative collectives from across the area to join in what’s shaping up to be the biggest and best parade yet.
The only requirement? Participants must come in costume — and be illuminated in some way to add to the magic.
Organisers are currently calling on local groups to sign up and be part of the spectacle. From eerie performances and gothic theatre to haunting musical acts and vibrant dance displays, there’s space for all sorts of creativity – but spots are expected to fill fast.
Each year, the Southend seafront is transformed into a shimmering celebration of light, movement, music and imagination, drawing in thousands of residents and visitors from across the country.
The 2024 event saw over 50 groups take part, with highlights including giant illuminated puppets, stilt walkers, live bands and street performers.
One local resident, Vicki Lamb, attended last year’s parade with her family. She said:
“We stood by the sea life aquarium and it was brilliant. There was a really nice atmosphere, no one being silly and lots of kids dressed up. It was really well managed and crowd controlled – well done Southend.”
The Southend Halloween Parade is quickly becoming one of the town’s standout cultural events, offering not just entertainment but a meaningful boost to local tourism and businesses.
Councillor Matt Dent, Southend’s cabinet member for business, culture and tourism, said:
“Our Halloween Parade has quickly become one of Southend’s most popular events, and it’s fantastic to be celebrating its fifth year.
“Each parade has brought something special, and with all the experience and enthusiasm gained from the past parades, we’re confident this year will be the biggest and best yet. It’s a brilliant, free celebration for residents and visitors alike, and a great boost for our local economy.”
Whether you’re part of a school, creative club, theatre group, dance crew or simply a bunch of mates with a shared love for spooky season, this is your chance to shine — literally.
With the countdown to Halloween now well underway, organisers are urging groups to sign up as soon as possible to avoid missing out.
Visit www.southendhalloween.org to get involved and help bring some eerie excitement to the Essex coast.
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