27th Annual Del Ray Halloween Parade

One of Del Ray’s favorite traditions, the 27th Annual Del Ray Halloween Parade, takes place October 29 at 2 p.m., along Mount Vernon Avenue, beginning at E. Bellefonte Avenue. Children, pets and decorated strollers are invited to march and show off their costumes. This parade ends with live music and an award presentation the Mount Vernon Recreation Center field. This hometown favorite event is a must-see!

BEST DECORATED HOUSE & BUSINESS CONTESTS: For over 30 years, local residents and businesses have gone all out decorating for Halloween, competing for bragging rights for best decorated house and business. 

HALLOWEEN PARADE STROLLER/GROUP CONTEST: Registration for the Stroller/Group Contest will be done prior to the parade start. Stroller registration takes place starting at 1 p.m. at the corner of Mt. Vernon and E. Howell Avenues; look for signage. All strollers must be registered by 1:30 p.m.; strollers will then line up on Howell to be judged prior to the parade. There is no fee to register. Special thanks to the Homes of Alexandria Team of Compass for sponsoring this fun event. Stroller Competition Categories: Creative, Humorous, Best Group or Family, Less is More, and Overall

HALLOWEEN PARADE PET COSTUME CONTEST: Registration for the Pet Costume Contest will be done prior to the parade start. Pet entries must be registered by 1:30 p.m. at the corner of Mt. Vernon and E. Howell Avenues; look for signage. Pets will be judged immediately at the end of the parade route. There is no fee to register. Special thanks to Your Dog’s Best Friends/The Dog Store for sponsoring this paw-some contest. Pet Costume Categories: Creative, Team, How Could You Do This To Me?, and Vola Lawson Best of Show

HALLOWEEN SCAVENGER HUNT: Walk the Avenue  and find Halloween-themed items in Del Ray’s decorated businesses and hand-painted windows. The hunt is happening now through November 2; five winners –randomly selected from all entries – will receive a $50 gift card to their favorite Del Ray business. Click here to download the clues, or pick up a copy from the witch at the Pat Miller Neighborhood Square. Special thanks to Kinneman Insurance for sponsoring this fun activity.