EXCITEMENT is building as Southend's beloved Halloween Parade will return to the city’s seafront next weekend.

The event is now in its fourth year and will see local and national acts come together for a frightfully fun family evening.

This year’s events start earlier than previous parades, with a Zombie Walk taking place at midday from Southend’s Victoria Circus.

The main parade will begin at 6pm at Eastern Esplanade car park.

The parade mapThe parade map (Image: Southend City Council) Last year’s parade saw over 45,000 spectators. The surrounding roads and car parks tend to get very busy, so attendees are advised to plan their visits accordingly.

Eastern Esplanade car park, formally known as the Gasworks will be closed all day. Western Esplanade parking bays will be suspended from 7am until midnight from Southend Pier to Roberto’s.

Fairhead’s Green car park will have access suspended between 3.30pm and 8pm.

Road closures come into effect at 4pm and Marine Parade and the surrounding roads will be closed for all traffic.

Public transport will also be available on the day, with both of Southend’s train stations operating standard services.

The parade timings are as follows:

6pm - Parade leaves Eastern Esplanade car park

6:30pm-6:45pm - Parade reaches Southend Pier & Railway

7:00pm-7:30pm - Parade reaches the end

8pm - Fireworks finale courtesy of the Southend Seaside Partnership

For more information visit southendhalloween.org