Halloween Trick-Or-Treat, Parade Information In Toms River For 2023

TOMS RIVER, NJ — Halloween is rapidly approaching in Toms River, and with it the Toms River Halloween Parade.

The 84th annual Toms River Fire Company No. 1 Halloween parade is Tuesday, Oct. 31, 2023. The parade has been held on Halloween for decades, and as a result, trick-or-treating is held on Oct. 30, the day before Halloween.

It's a longstanding tradition in Toms River.

"This was a joint decision made by the township, Toms River Fire Companies and the Toms River Police Department," Mayor Maurice B. Hill said in formally announcing the trick-or-treating date. "We want children to come to the parade with their families on Halloween but still enjoy the time-honored tradition of trick-or-treating."

Police Chief Mitch Little says it is especially important for parents and motorists to adhere to a few safety rules during trick-or-treating.

"On October 30th, motorists should be aware and drive with extra caution. Be on the alert for excited youngsters, whose vision may be obstructed by masks, darting out into traffic," Little said. "We also advise parents to accompany young children, always carry a flashlight for safety, stay on sidewalks or as close to the curb as possible and only go to houses where the porch lights are on."

While there is no official curfew in Toms River, Little said that all trick-or-treaters will be asked to be off township streets by 9 p.m.

"Our utmost concern is for the safety and well-being of our residents and the children enjoying the holiday. The Toms River Police Department wishes you a safe and Happy Halloween!" Little said.

The Halloween parade steps off at 7 p.m. at Highland Parkway and Main Street, and goes south on Main Street to Washington Street, then turns onto Washington Street.

Toms River Fire Company 1 officials said registration takes place on the day of the parade only at the firehouse on Robbins Street, between Washington and Water Streets, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The fire company said there are new divisions for 2023. See the divisions here and more here or pick up a rules booklet at the firehouse on Robbins Parkway.

Reminders that there are no people permitted to walk in a motorized division, nothing is to be thrown off any motorized vehicles.

Chairs can be placed along the parade route Tuesday morning, the day of the parade, as long as they are secured down and not flying around.