'More Than Just a (Halloween) Parade' in Palmyra

Sad because you only get to celebrate Halloween one night a year? 

The organizers of the Palmyra Halloween Parade know how you feel.

For the first time ever, the borough's All Hallow's Eve celebration—started all the way back in 1926—will be stretched out over the latter half of the month, with new additions and old favorites sure to get you in the spirit.

The motto of this year's parade is "More Than Just a Parade," explained Palmyra Halloween Committee president Geneva DiTaranto. "It's more like a townwide community event than a one-night thing, and we thought it would be fun to add to it. We wanted to include more people and make it more fun for everyone."

First off, the organizers are starting a Halloween house decorating contest this year. So break out the jack-o'-lanterns, fake cobwebs and cardboard tombstones to make your home the most "spook-tacular" in town. Judging will take place between Oct. 27-29. Email info@palmyrahalloweenparade.com to request a registration form.

The committee, in conjunction with the Palmyra PTA, is also bringing back the popular Halloween poster contest, giving Palmyra students a chance to express their inner artist. 

Later in the month, join in the fun with the Halloween scavenger hunt. Answer 26 questions about Palmyra history, its businesses, and sports—visiting various locales as you tick them off the list—for a chance to win a prize. The hunt begins at 3 p.m. Oct. 18. Scavengers can pick up the questions at Muse Tattoo & Art Gallery, and the hunt ends at Vallari's.

On Saturday, Oct. 26, do the "Time Warp" over to the band shell (near the Palmyra Community Center) for a free outdoor showing of the Halloween classic The Rocky Horror Picture Show. Guests are encouraged to bring props and come in costume. The movie starts at 10 p.m.

And finally, the parade itself kicks off at 6:45 p.m. Oct. 30 at Riverton Elementary School. Expect plenty of music and marching bands, and start planning your costumes and/or floats now. Prizes will be given out at the end for the best of both. (Register online here.)

Longtime Palmyra physical education teacher Donna Wenski, who recently retired, will be the parade marshal, DiTaranto said. "She's a wonderful person in the community. She's very excited."

Sponsors are needed to help make the parade a success. If you're interested in becoming a sponsor, you can sign up here.

For more information, visit the Palmyra Halloween Parade website or on Facebook.