Anoka: Halloween Capital of the World | All You Need to Know!

Anoka: Halloween Capital of the World!

If you’re looking for the ultimate way to celebrate spooky season, head to Anoka, the Halloween Capital of the World! This city has been going all in on Halloween since 1920, and every October, the entire town transforms with parades, contests, tours, and family-friendly fun. Not only is it a great way to get into the spirit, but proceeds also support local schools and scholarships.

>>> CLICK HERE TO JUMP TO THE EVENTS! <<<

The fun kicks off on Friday, October 18, with the Preschool Costume Contest in the morning at Anoka City Hall, followed by the Pumpkin Carving Contest in Riverfront Memorial Park. That evening, Main Street lights up for the magical Light Up the Night Parade at 7 PM, where glowing floats and costumes take over downtown. Afterward, the celebration continues with a cozy community bonfire outside City Hall. On Saturday, October 19, families can join in the hunt for the annual medallion, with prizes on the line and bragging rights at stake.

The excitement continues the next week with the House Decorating Contest on October 24 and 25, where locals go all out to turn their homes into spooky spectacles you can tour by car or on foot. On Thursday, October 24, one of Anoka’s oldest traditions, the Big Parade of Little People, fills downtown with costumed elementary students and bands marching along Main Street.

The Grande Day Parade is at 1 PM. This 1.5 mile parade route is packed with floats, performers, and music, making it the highlight of the entire celebration.

Throughout the month, you can also take a Ghosts of Anoka Walking Tour, a mix of haunted history and folklore led by costumed guides. With so many events, there is truly something for everyone, from little ones in costumes to adults looking for a festive night out. Most activities are free, but some, like the Medallion Hunt, require the purchase of an Anoka Halloween Button.

If you go, remember that parade spots on Main Street and 5th Ave fill up quickly. In fact, people start claiming them as early as 4 AM on parade days. Bundle up, wear comfy shoes, and be ready for a full day of Halloween fun. Anoka in October is not just an event, it is an experience, and one you will want to make a tradition.

No matter your age, Anoka Halloween has something for everyone. Kids can dress up for costume contests, pumpkin carving, and the Big Parade of Little People, while teens and adults can join the medallion hunt, haunted walking tours, or the Gray Ghost 5K. Families can stroll downtown for the parades or drive around to check out the amazing house displays. If you love spooky fun, community spirit, and a reason to break out your favorite costume, Anoka is the place to be. It’s a celebration that brings generations together and shows exactly why this town proudly calls itself the Halloween Capital of the World.

Click here for Anoka, Minnesota Halloween Events

Two more guides to check out:

The Best Halloween Events & Trunk or Treats

Twin Cities Guide to Fall: Festivals, Orchards, Halloween & More!

https://www.exploreminnesota.com/