Get ready for a thrilling spectacle as the Southend Halloween Parade returns next month, promising an even bigger and better experience than before.

Last year's event drew an impressive crowd of more than 30,000 people, and organisers are expecting even more attendees this time around.

This year’s parade, on Saturday, October 26, will be packed with eerie delights, from the return of crowd-favourite giant puppets and inflatable creatures to new music and dance acts designed to keep the audience entertained from start to finish.

Spooky - Southend Halloween Parade to returnSpooky - Southend Halloween Parade to return (Image: Newsquest)

Alongside these spine-tingling attractions, performers and artists will join the fun, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Labour councillor Daniel Cowan, leader of Southend Council, has encouraged residents and visitor to join one of the city's highlight events.

Exciting - The Halloween parade in action Exciting - The Halloween parade in action (Image: Art Teresa)

He said: "The Halloween Parade is one of the highlights of our events calendar.

"It is always a great event, with a brilliant turnout that local families and visitors love to attend.

"We are really excited about the return of the parade and we encourage everyone to come out and enjoy it."

Busy - Families line the parade routeBusy - Families line the parade route (Image: Gaz De Vere)

The parade is organised by the Southend Council, in partnership with the Southend Tourism Partnership, and it is free for all visitors to enjoy.

It will begin at 6pm and run all the way along the seafront through until 7:30pm.

The Halloween Parade is becoming a key attraction for the city with it now returning for a fourth year.

Scary - Southend GhostbustersScary - Southend Ghostbusters (Image: Gaz De Vere)

The event provides an opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate in a lively, family-friendly atmosphere while also supporting the local economy.

Earlier this year, the community of Southend was invited to get involved by donning their best costumes and adding illuminated elements for an extra spooky touch.

Wow - Southend Halloween Parade is returningWow - Southend Halloween Parade is returning (Image: Newsquest)

Participants have been encouraged to showcase their creative Halloween outfits as witches, ghosts, or ghouls while marching alongside the parade's exciting displays.

Visitors have been told to prepare for a night of spooktacular fun and a community celebration like no other.