Proctor’s familiar shopping streets will take on a different personality Saturday, October 17, when the third annual Tacoma Halloween Parade and Spooky Street Fair returns. The free, all-ages celebration runs from 3 to 8 p.m., with an afternoon marketplace leading into a nighttime parade. Produced by Stellar Soirées Event Creation, supported by Friday Night Frights and presented by Washington State Horror Con, the event gives Halloween costumes an outing two weeks before the holiday.
The street fair will stretch along North Proctor between North 26th and North 29th streets, bringing together vendors, food, community booths and entertainment. Participating parade group Krampus Bremerton lists more than 70 vendors, including handcraft sellers. With several blocks devoted to the festivities, visitors can browse, find something to eat and take in the entertainment before choosing a spot for the procession.
Younger makers will have a place in the celebration, too. The Kids Market and PodWorks Kids Zone will occupy North 27th Street between Proctor and Adams, with young entrepreneurs showing off their creativity. It adds a different kind of neighborhood shopping opportunity: a chance to discover what local kids are making alongside the adult vendors.
The “Creep It Real” costume contest is scheduled for 6:15 p.m. on the main stage, followed by the parade at approximately 7 p.m. The procession will begin near Mason Middle School at North 29th and Proctor, travel south and end at North 25th Street. Organizers describe glowing floats, decorated vehicles, performers and costumed characters—so there should be plenty to watch even if you leave your own costume at home.
Among the unusual guests will be members of Krampus Bremerton, bringing the horned, fur-covered figures of Alpine winter folklore to Proctor. The group promises bells and opportunities for photos, adding something a little different to the usual Halloween lineup. Although the event welcomes all ages, its participants describe it as family friendly with a spooky side, something parents may want to consider when planning an evening with younger children.
The Blue Mouse Theatre is adding an indoor option with Friday Night Frights’ “Creepy Classics” program. A separate $5 admission covers one film or all five, starting with House on Haunted Hill at 3:15 p.m. and ending with Night of the Living Dead at 8:20 p.m. Between those screenings are White Zombie, The Last Man on Earth and Carnival of Souls, making it possible to mix time at the street fair with a classic horror movie.
The outdoor celebration is rain or shine, costumes are encouraged, and well-behaved leashed dogs are welcome. Parking is expected to be limited, so consider walking, biking, transit or leaving the car farther from the busiest blocks. For announcements before heading out, check the Tacoma Halloween Parade’s Facebook page; the Blue Mouse also has its Creepy Classics schedule posted online.
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