Every October, East Sacramento lights up with Halloween spirit through a mix of parades, festivals, and community fun. In 2025, the best Halloween parade and festival event starts on October 25 with the Midtown Halloween Festival & Pooch Parade. Here’s your insider’s guide to the biggest, most spirited community festivities and how to enjoy them fully.
Where the Fun Begins: Midtown Halloween Festival & Pooch Parade
When: Saturday, October 25, 2025, 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Where: James Marshall Park, Midtown Sacramento
Cost: Free – bring your family, friends, and pets!
This event is a hallmark of East Sacramento’s Halloween scene. The highlight is the Pooch Parade starting at 2 PM, where dogs in costumes strut their stuff, from witches and superheroes to pumpkins and zombies. The festival buzzes with energy, featuring live music, pumpkin decorations, food stalls, and photo spots for capturing all those magical moments.
Locals love this event because it’s laid-back and family-friendly, a perfect mix of cute and creative without overwhelming frights. The festival started as a cozy community gathering and has grown into a full-blown celebration that fills the park with smiles, wagging tails, and plenty of treats for all ages.
Hot Tips to Make the Most of the Midtown Festival
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Show up early, around noon, to grab a good spot near the main stage or parade entrance. This is where the cutest costumes are on display.
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Bring a portable chair or picnic blanket; it’s an afternoon of fun, and you’ll want to relax while enjoying the music and festivities.
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If you want your furry friend to join in, register early as spots fill fast. Make the costume fun and comfy for your pet; creativity counts more than scariness.
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Don’t just watch, get involved! Face-painting, pumpkin painting, and carnival games keep everyone entertained, plus local vendors serve seasonal treats like caramel apples and pumpkin lattes.
More Halloween Highlights Around Sacramento
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Sacramento Scream Park: For those who like their Halloween a bit spookier, this haunted park is open until November 2, packed with haunted houses and live scare actors. It’s recommended for ages 13 and up and perfect for a thrill after daytime family fun.
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Halloween Carnival & Haunted House at Jose P. Rizal Community Center: On October 31 from 5 PM to 8 PM, enjoy carnival games, a haunted room, candy trails, and costume contests. This free event is great for local families looking for Halloween night excitement.
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Old Sacramento’s Halloween Town: For an evening stroll with a Halloween twist, this area transforms into a glowing market with live performances, light shows, and pumpkin displays through the end of October. Open-air movies add to the festive vibe.
Bringing the Community Together
What makes East Sacramento’s Halloween so special is the blend of community spirit and creativity. Midtown’s streets are decked out with pumpkins, lights, and spooky decorations, and local businesses get into the spirit, turning the neighborhood into a festive playground. It’s a chance for families and friends to bond over costumes, treats, and good old-fashioned fall fun.
Get Ready: Halloween Parade and Community Participation Tips
If you’re planning to participate in a parade or simply want to share the Halloween spirit, here are some tips to keep things smooth and enjoyable:
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Plan your costume early! Whether you’re joining the Pooch Parade or just attending, a well-thought-out costume makes a statement. Consider comfort and weather, October in East Sacramento can be cool in the evening.
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If you’re dressing a pet, choose lightweight materials and avoid anything that might restrict movement or senses. Check for local parade registration deadlines to reserve your spot.
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Bring essentials like water, snacks, and sunscreen if you’re spending the afternoon outdoors.
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Keep kids and pets safe by staying visible and close to the action but away from crowded streets or busy roads.
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Volunteer opportunities are often available for festival setup and coordination. Getting involved is a great way to meet neighbors and contribute to the fun atmosphere.
Mark Your Calendar for a Spooky Good Time
With its mix of adorable pet parades, family-friendly carnivals, and thrilling haunted events, Sacramento’s Halloween 2025 scene shines bright. Whether you’re watching costumed dogs prance, exploring a haunted house, or soaking up the festive vibe in Old Sacramento, there’s plenty to enjoy.
Get your costumes ready, gather your crew, and dive into the festive spirit. East Sacramento’s Halloween 2025 is a celebration designed for all ages and tastes. Don’t miss out on this lively season of spooky fun, community smiles, and memorable moments.
For event details and updates, visit the Midtown Halloween Festival page and explore other Sacramento Halloween festivities online. Happy haunting!
Sources: exploremidtown.org, screamparkcalifornia.com, southgaterecandpark.net, downtownsac.org
Header Image Source: exploremidtown.org
