November 1, 2024
Riverwalk Commons, 200 Doug Duncan Drive
As the crisp autumn air settles in and Halloween memories linger, the town of Newmarket, Ontario, gears up for one of its most anticipated post-Halloween events — the Pumpkin Parade 2024. This annual tradition, beloved by residents and visitors alike, is a magical evening that showcases creativity, community spirit, and the beauty of the season.
The Newmarket Pumpkin Parade is a festive celebration where the community comes together to display their carved pumpkins from Halloween. Held on the evening of November 1st, the parade transforms the local park into a glowing gallery of jack-o’-lanterns, each one a unique work of art. As twilight fades into night, the park is illuminated by hundreds of flickering pumpkins, creating a mesmerizing and eerie atmosphere that delights participants of all ages.
How It Works
Participation in the Pumpkin Parade is simple and free. Residents are encouraged to bring their carved pumpkins from Halloween to the designated park area in Newmarket. Volunteers help arrange the pumpkins along pathways, turning the park into a winding trail of creative designs. The event is open to all, and no registration is required, making it an accessible and inclusive community gathering. Participate by either submitting your jack-o-lantern or painted pumpkin for a showcase and contest for a chance to win a prize (categories listed below) or attend the event from 6:30 – 8:30 pm to view the display and vote for your favourites in each category.
The categories include:
- Jack-of-all-Lanterns
- Cutest Pumpkin
- Scariest Pumpkin
- Most Creative
Prize: $100 gift card to a Newmarket restaurant of your choice.
Event Details:
- Pumpkins may be carved and/or painted.
- All pumpkins dropped off will be provided with a number for all guests to reference when voting on their favourite pumpkin.
- The Town of Newmarket will be providing LED tea lights to insert into each pumpkin, where applicable.
- All pumpkins at the end of the event will be placed into yard waste.
- Participants must be Newmarket residents.
Environmental Impact
The Newmarket Pumpkin Parade is not only a celebration of Halloween creativity but also a sustainable event that focuses on environmental responsibility. After the event, all pumpkins are collected and composted by the town’s waste management services. This eco-friendly approach ensures that the event leaves no waste behind and contributes positively to the community’s green initiatives.
Why Attend?
The Pumpkin Parade is more than just a display of jack-o’-lanterns; it’s a celebration of community and creativity. It provides a platform for residents to share their artistic talents while enjoying a festive evening with family and friends. The event fosters a strong sense of community pride and togetherness, making it a cherished tradition in Newmarket.
For families, the Pumpkin Parade offers a safe and fun way to extend the Halloween season. Kids can show off their carving skills, enjoy the festive atmosphere, and create lasting memories. For adults, it’s a chance to appreciate the artistic efforts of the community and unwind in the company of neighbours and friends.
