THOUSANDS of people are set to descend on Southend as ghastly ghouls and eerie delights fill the seafront – with traders hoping for a much-needed boost in trade.
The annual Halloween Parade has quickly become one of the highlights of Southend’s events calendar since launching just four years ago.
Planned for October 26, the parade will be packed with giant puppets and inflatable creatures alongside new music and dance acts to entertain the crowds.
Seafront traders are eagerly awaiting the event and are hoping for another stellar day of business after last year’s event saw 45,000 people line the streets.
Joan Tiney, who owns The Borough Hotel with her husband, is confident the parade has quickly become the stand out event of the year.
“Everyone without fail is in favour of it. Especially after having no Southend Carnival, no air show or illuminations for years, it’s an absolute saviour” she said.
Joan, who is also the vice chair of Southend’s Seaside Partnership, added: “Even though last year’s weather was dreadful and rained the whole time, it was still definitely a positive event.
“It benefits everybody, but it especially benefits the seafront.”
Alongside spooky performers, residents can expect to see floats and displays from charities, businesses and community groups.
Sandy van Deventer, co-owner of the Seafood Shack on Southend seafront, is already gearing up for the parade.
“It’s an absolutely amazing night. It’s always one of our best, both in terms of fun and business,” she said.
“Depending on the weather, we may set up an outdoor BBQ and bar for this year’s parade. It’s just such a fantastic atmosphere.”
She added: “It’s something that all the businesses can gather around and is especially welcome off the back of recent events”
The first Halloween Parade took place in 2021 and has been a huge hit with Southenders ever since.
Matt Dent, councillor for culture, tourism and business, said: “The Southend Halloween Parade is a fantastic event on the Southend City calendar and the involvement with the local college and businesses only help strengthens the offer.
For more information visit southendhalloween.org
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here