2026 Parade and Carnival is Oct. 29
82nd Annual Community Parade & Carnival
Get your costumes ready for a night of floats, family fun, carnival games and community tradition in downtown Bartow.
Parade and Carnival Details
The Bartow Community Halloween Parade and Carnival began with the Crickette Club of Bartow and is kept alive by the Kiwanis Club, Rotary Club, Junior Service League, Zonta Club and ENGAGE through the Community Halloween Parade and Carnival Committee.
The parade lines up along First and Second Street, travels west on Main Street to Broadway Avenue, then heads south on Broadway to Mosaic Park. Participants will receive a map and section number during the week before the event.
Parade Sign Up
View Event Flyer
Application deadline: Friday, October 16, 2026
Mandatory meeting: Thursday, October 22, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. at the Bartow Civic Center
A Spooktacular Parade
Expect a dazzling display of floats, costumes and local talent. The parade begins promptly at 4:30 p.m. and ends near Mosaic Park. Warm and humid conditions are possible, so participants and guests are encouraged to stay hydrated.
Parade Entry Fees
- $25 for individuals, groups and businesses
- $50 for politicians and political groups
- $250 sponsor fee for a prime location near the beginning of the parade and additional publicity
- No charge for nonprofit organizations, schools and churches
Carnival Fun Awaits
The carnival begins after the parade at approximately 5:30 p.m. at Mosaic Park. Enjoy carnival games, Lakeland Moonwalk inflatables, food trucks, bingo, the world famous cake walk and much more.
Credit and debit cards may be used to purchase game and ride tickets, so guests do not need to carry cash.
Costume Contest
Registration is free and begins at 5:30 p.m. The first contest begins at approximately 6:30 p.m., with categories for store bought and homemade costumes.
Parade Rules and Safety
- The event is rain or shine. Entry fees are nonrefundable.
- Maximum unit height is 13 feet 6 inches. Maximum length is 65 feet, including the truck and trailer.
- Candy may not be thrown. It may be handed out by walkers age 12 and older.
- Every vehicle and float must have family friendly Halloween decorations.
- Identify your organization at the front of the unit. All units must be together before entering the lineup.
- Drivers must be at least 16 years old.
- Entries must be fully decorated before lining up.
- Keep pace with the parade and avoid gaps between units.
- Bathrooms are not provided for parade participants.
Calling All Volunteers
Volunteers help make this community tradition possible. Opportunities include running game booths, assisting with lost and found, directing traffic and helping with cleanup. Volunteer service hours are available.
To volunteer: Email Michelle@bartowchamber.com.
Parade Questions
Contact Main Street Bartow at 863-519-0508 or Kristin@mainstreetbartowfl.com.
Trick or Treating in Bartow
Saturday, October 31, 2026 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Mark your calendar, gather your family and friends, and join us for a night of Halloween magic at the 82nd Bartow Community Halloween Parade and Carnival.
