As they slowly go into orbit thanks to candy overload, you’re gonna want to get those kids outside. May we suggest a pumpkin parade? This Toronto institution lets you get a little more mileage out of your jack-0-lanterns before they’re relegated to the green bin. Walk amongst hundreds of glowing gourds while you sip hot chocolate and let your kids run wild. Chances are, there’s a pumpkin parade near you:
Sorauren Park (289 Sorauren Ave): November 1st, 6-9 p.m. With close to 2000 pumpkins on display in recent years, expect a big spectacle. “From witches and cats, to politicians and world events, the artful jack-o-lanterns represent the spirit of Halloween and also the spirit of the times.”
Cabbagetown Pumpkin Walk (375 Sumach St) November 1st 5-9 p.m. Give your pumpkin (and your costume) an encore at this neighbourhood pumpkin walk.
Masaryk Park Pumpkin Parade (220 Cowan Ave) November 1st, 6-8 p.m. This event boasts FREE hot chocolate!
Streetsville Pumpkin Parade (Queen Street South and Main Street, Mississauga): November 1st, 6-8:30 p.m. Let those beautiful pumpkins have one last moment in the spotlight – at the Streetsville Village Square!
Mimico Pumpkin Parade (2441 Lakeshore Blvd) November 1st, 6-8:30 p.m. This is Mimico’s 6th Annual Pumpkin Parade!
Centennial Park Pumpkin Parade (256 Centennial Park Rd) November 1st, 6-8 p.m. Rain or shine. There’ll also be activities for the kids.
Halloween Pumpkin Parade at St. James Park (120 King St. E) November 1st, 6-7:30 p.m. Free cider and hot chocolate (while they last!)
Pumpkin Parade at Dempsey Park (250 Beecroft Rd) November 1st, 6:30-8 p.m. Win prizes for different categories of Pumpkin Carving and watch a Fire/Glow Hula Hoop performer.
Earlscourt Park Pumpkin Parade (1200 Lansdowne Ave) November 1st, 6:30 to 8 p.m. Get “PUMP”-ed for this magical pumpkin parade (sorry!)
Wychwood Barns Park Pumpkin Parade (601 Christie St) November 1st, 6 to 9 p.m. Bring your pumpkin and a candle, and come mingle with your neighbours at Wychwood Barn’s 5th Annual Pumpkin Parade.
Didn’t see your park? Check out this handy guide to ALL of Toronto’s 40+ pumpkin parades here.