Venice, Florida, may not have a street parade for Halloween this year, but that doesn’t mean the spirit of spooky season is missing from the community calendar. For those seeking Halloween parades and festivals, the options in Venice offer plenty of charm, costumes, and candy. Let’s dive into the lively lineup of parades and festivals happening in Venice, with some engaging tips on how to make the most of these festive gatherings.
Downtown Venice Halloween Strut: Where Costumes Meet Candy
Mark your calendars for October 31, 2025, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. because the Downtown Venice Halloween Strut is back to light up the streets with costumes and candy, minus the usual street parade. This event invites families and Halloween lovers to show off their costumes while taking part in trick-or-treating at local businesses along West Venice Avenue, Tampa Avenue West, Miami Avenue West, and Nokomis Avenue.
What makes the Strut especially fun is the music spun by DJ Steve at the Trunk-or-Treat area in the Merchants of Venice building parking lot. This kid-friendly space for dancing and fun allows everyone to get into the spirit with some energy and grooving between candy stops. Whether you’re a tiny ghost or a seasoned zombie, this is a perfect way to celebrate Halloween in Venice’s welcoming downtown area.
Learn more about the Downtown Venice Halloween Strut
Halloween Parade at Centennial Park: Costume Showoff With Treats
If a more traditional Halloween parade is what you crave, October 25, 2025, at Centennial Park is your date. This event invites kids to parade in their Halloween best with chances to win prizes and collect treats. The event is budget-friendly with free admission and parking, making it a great option for families who want a festive, no-fuss celebration.
Monster Mash: A Costume Party With a Twist
For older kids and families looking for an evening that turns the Halloween excitement up a notch, Monster Mash at the Venice Community Center on October 25 from 6 to 10 p.m. offers live music, a lively costume contest, and more. This party combines fun food, dance, and prizes, making it a great late-day option for keeping the Halloween energy alive all night.
Wellen Park Spooktacular: Family Fun on Halloween Evening
Another gem happens at Wellen Park on October 31, from 4 to 7 p.m. The Wellen Park Spooktacular Halloween event combines spooky fun with a friendly vibe, perfect for families who want to celebrate in a lively neighborhood setting with plenty of treats and seasonal smiles.
Check out the Wellen Park Spooktacular
Venice Holiday Parade: A Glittering Finale to November
Looking ahead, the Venice Holiday Parade on November 29, 2025, marks a major community event that kicks off the festive season downtown. This parade, held the Saturday after Thanksgiving, is part of Venice’s Centennial celebrations, adding extra sparkle and meaning to the city’s big birthday year.
Your Go-To Tips for Halloween Parade and Festival Fun in Venice
Whether you’re gearing up for the Halloween Strut, Centennial Park parade, or any other festival, here’s how to get the best out of your experience:
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Dress for the occasion and the weather. Venice in late October can be warm during the day but cooler in the evening pack a light jacket and bring comfy shoes.
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Glow sticks and light-up accessories are must-haves. They keep little ones safe and visible when dusk falls.
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Bring your own candy bag or bucket. Reusable options work great and are eco-friendly for all the treats you’ll gather.
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Arrive early to grab the best parade spots. This also gives your family more time to enjoy other activities around the event.
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Make it a group celebration. Invite friends, neighbors, or fellow community members to join for double the fun and better photos.
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Plan before you go. Check event times and map out locations so you don’t miss out on your favorites.
A Bit of Venice Fall Festival Vibe in November
If you’re extending your festive wanderings to November, the 37th Annual Downtown Venice Art Festival on November 1-2 is a fantastic way to enjoy a weekend of art, music, and culture. Although it’s not spooky-themed, this free event is great for families wanting a day out after Halloween excitement. Browse artworks, support local artists, and find one-of-a-kind pieces to brighten your home or gift to friends.
Visit the Downtown Venice Art Festival info
Making the Most of Venice’s Community Spirit
Venice’s Halloween season is less about ghostly parades this year and more about community connection, safe candy collecting, lively costume shows, and family-friendly fun. The city’s calendar is buzzing with events that blend festive spirit and small-town charm, perfect for Venetians and visitors eager to dive in.
Get ready to enjoy the costumes, hoard the candy, and take in the local vibe with a calendar that keeps the Halloween spirit alive and warming the heart of Venice well past October. Your ultimate Venice Halloween adventure this year is just a costume change away!
Explore event links, save the dates, and plan your Halloween soiree in Venice. It’s your season to shine in spooky style.
Sources: wellenpark.com, visitvenicefl.org, mustdo.com
Header Image Source: Israyosoy S.
