It’s officially spooky season—haunted houses, hayrides, trick-or-treating, and thrills and chills galore create the perfect atmosphere for celebrating crisp fall weather and stunning, ever-changing backdrops of autumn’s multicolored foliage.
And Halloween is the holiday that is the icing on the cake, the ultimate spooky season finale, and the beloved holiday celebrated by people of all ages who embrace the opportunity to give themselves a good scare. So what could be better than a visit to The Halloween Capital of the World—also known as Anoka, Minnesota?
Anoka has earned this distinction because it is the first place to hold a Halloween parade—and since 1920, it has been regularly outdoing itself with impressive annual celebrations that delight both residents and visitors. A month-long event that transforms this small town into the ultimate Halloween haven, there’s something for everyone in The Halloween Capital of the World.
But Why Anoka?
The story of how Anoka became The Halloween Capital Of The World is a familiar one to small-town residents everywhere—during the Halloween season in 1920, young pranksters were going all out, wreaking havoc throughout town by tipping cows and outhouses, soaping windows, and tearing down fences. As the property damage escalated, however, Anokans decided that something had to be done—thus, the first Anoka holiday celebrations were born; along with Anoka Halloween Inc., the non-profit local committee responsible ever after for the town’s annual Halloween brouhaha. A success ever since, this small town of around 20,000 residents draws visitors from across the country every October to participate in fun, spooky, family-friendly Halloween events.
The Power Of Parades
A Halloween parade is essentially what put Anoka on the map as a Halloween heavy hitter—and the tradition has continued almost every year since with a multitude of parades that are the epitome of the town’s special pageantry and flair. Settle in on a comfy blanket with a cup of hot cocoa; dress up in your spooky best, and enjoy the spectacle of Halloween with an Anoka twist.
Light Up The Night Parade
A Halloween tradition in Anoka, the lights get turned down low for the brightly lit floats to steal the show as they proceed through Anoka’s historic downtown. Be sure to stay for the annual bonfire afterward from 8:00-10:00 PM.
- Date: October 23, 2021
- Time: 7:00 PM
- Cost: Free
Big Parade Of Little People
Anoka’s oldest tradition, the parade of costumed elementary school children is accompanied by local marching bands as they walk through the decorated downtown area.
- Date: October 29, 2021
- Time: 1:15-2:15 PM
- Cost: Free
Grande Day Parade
The mother of Anoka parades is the town’s longest-running tradition and is the ultimate celebration of everything Halloween. Try and reserve a space early, as this parade is by far the most popular downtown event of the season.
- Date: October 30, 2021
- Time: 1:00-4:00 PM
- Cost: Free
Other Ways To Celebrate Halloween In Anoka
Come for the parades and stay for the other amazing Halloween-themed events throughout this charming town during the month of October.
- Every year, the Anoka County Historical Society hosts Special Ghost Tours that bring the real scary stories of Anoka to life—tales told by local residents that are part history, part legend, and all fun. Digital tours are also available for those who can’t make it to Anoka in person. Tickets: $10 (Digital Tour), $14 (Live Zoom Tour, Walking Tour)
- Visit the Anoka Halloween Store for all the best holiday swag. Just look for the big orange sign and spooky skeleton on Main Street. Open Fridays and Saturdays 10:00 AM-5:00 PM throughout October
- Love Halloween decorations? Then take a tour of charming Anoka and check out the local participants in the House Decorating Contest. Public Viewings October 29th and 30th 2021 from 7:00-9:00 PM
- Check out the annual Pumpkin Bowl, a high school football game Halloween-style. October 20, 2021 5:00-9:00PM
- Love fun and games? Then check out Bingo Night (be sure to dress up!), and the Medallion Hunt where participants search the town for the Halloween Capital of the World custom medallion. Bingo Nights: October 18th and 25th 2021 6:30PM-8:30PM, 25 cents per card Medallion Hunt: October 24, 2021 12PM-2PM (family and children); 2:20PM-4:30PM (open hunt) $3 to participate
- Anoka is known for its family-friendly Halloween events, and The Children’s Pumpkin Carving Contest is one of the best. October 23, 2021, 1PM-2:30PM, Ages 3-12
- Anoka’s Halloween-themed Movie Nights are a treat for the entire family. Come out and watch a free movie under the stars at George Green park and get in the spirit of the season. October 8th and 19th 2021, 7:00-9:00 PM, Free
Anoka is a charming and historic Minnesota small town that just so happens to have the title of “Halloween Capital of the World.” Every October, Anokans transform their home into a mecca for the spooky season with events and celebrations that last all month long—a treat for residents and visitors alike looking to revel in the magic and wonder of Halloween.