New York has been famous for its grandeur and energy for many years. Many famous events are held here every year, including music concerts, exhibitions, parades, festivals and more. The Halloween Parade, which is considered the largest in the world, deserves special attention. Every year, the city comes to life. It is filled with mystery and eccentricity thanks to it. Its history dates back decades. The event became an inseparable part of the cultural heritage of the city. Read more on newyorkski.info.
How did the tradition of celebrating Halloween originate?
The origins of the Halloween Parade in New York go back to the mid-20th century when artists and creative people were looking for unconventional ways to express themselves. In 1973, a puppeteer and mask maker Ralph Lee staged New York’s first ever Halloween Parade in Greenwich Village. This modest event was attended by only a few participants, but laid the foundation for the annual tradition. The event became incredibly large-scale and world-famous.
The first parade dedicated to Halloween was a combination of whimsical masks, unusual dolls and a general love for everything strange and unique.
The development of the event
Over the years, the popularity of the parade only grew. This event attracted many people every year. People from different parts of the world came to New York for this event. A small art event in the distant 1970s turned into a grand spectacle with elaborate costumes, platforms and magical performances. New York’s Village Halloween Parade has become a center of culture, ideas and creative expression in the 21st century. Every year, the streets of Manhattan become a center where ordinary people are transformed into fantastic creatures.
The important point of the event is an emphasis on creativity and individuality. Participants are not just spectators. They are an integral part of the procession. Here, you can see the most conceptual costumes, from whimsical to downright creepy. Incredibly elaborate props and entire platforms are painstakingly created for the parade. Every detail is a testament to human ingenuity. The vibrant energy that permeates this event is the result of countless hours of work and dedication put into every stitch, stroke and detail.
The very first Halloween Parade was held around the artist-in-residence at the Westbeth Artists Community in 1974. This event was unofficial. It was a puppet parade, which was organized for children. In 1975, the parade passed from Jane Street to Washington Square Park. At that time, more than 200 people, both adults and children, attended the event. Over the years, the parade has grown in scale. It was held in new places and gathered more and more participants and visitors. It has become iconic and one of the most anticipated events for New Yorkers.
The only major night parade in the USA
One of the main features of the Halloween Parade is that it is held at night. This makes the event the largest night parade in the US. Every year on October 31, at dusk on Halloween night, the streets of New York are transformed into an otherworldly realm. The parade begins with the tossing of dry paint and live musical performances, as well as the procession of costumed people, bands and carefully crafted platforms.
Like many similar events, the Halloween parade has a unique feature. It unites people, overcoming the barriers of age, gender, ethnicity and origin. In a city as diverse as New York, the parade acts as a unifying link. This is a holiday where children’s laughter is combined with the wisdom of the elderly and the avant-garde stands side by side with traditions. This celebration of unity amidst diversity really makes the parade a reflection of the spirit of New York. Every year, 50,000 participants take part in the parade and there are even more visitors.
Since the 1970s, it has become a tradition. In the 21st century, it is considered a true cultural tradition that reflects the diversity of New York. People from all over the world come to participate in it, show themselves, their costumes and honor traditions. The interest in the parade becomes stronger every year. This event attracts everyone, both young and old. According to The New York Times: ‘The Halloween Parade is the best entertainment the people of this City ever give the people of this City’. That is why it is so loved.
New York’s Village Halloween Parade is more than just a gathering of gargoyles and goblins. It is a true celebration of creativity and a huge desire to express themselves.