A new division for the parade this year features pets in costume.
By BROOKE FELDMAN
Under an enchanting black sky, spooky season was in full effect for the 75th annual Ocean City Exchange Club Halloween Parade.
The community’s own witches, goblins and ghosts lined Asbury Avenue between Sixth Street and 11th Street around 7 p.m. Thursday to catch the mystic and magic of the popular longtime event.
“It’s just a family tradition at this point,” said Jacqueline Wise of Woodbine. “We come every year to be part of the fun, and my kids really look forward to it.”
Her daughter, Eveline, decided to be a pumpkin to watch the parade this year.
“My favorite part is when they throw the candy out!” said Eveline, who was eager to stock up on candy just a couple days before Halloween.
A scary float cruises down Asbury Avenue.
Herbie Godfrey’s family also comes every year, only his family has participated since the inaugural parade.
“We’re 12th generation in Cape May County, so we are trying to stay part of the community,” said Godfrey, who stood proudly beside his decked-out float minutes before the start of the parade.
Jeff Shirk, of Ocean City, has been parade chairman for the last 22 years and has no intention of stopping anytime soon. This is his way of giving back to the community.
“I just love the fact that it’s such a great community event.” Shirk said. “If I can play a part in this one really cool event, I will keep doing it.”
The parade included more than 30 floats and 15 dance teams. Marching bands from Ocean City High School and Mainland Regional High School, as well as the crowd favorite, “The Original Hobo Band,” filled the air with familiar tunes.
Michael Hartman, artistic director of the Ocean City Theatre Company, served as parade emcee.
The Rock the Pumpkin float passes by the judges' stand.
Shirk added a new category for the first time in the history of the parade. Dressed-up pets are now part of the festive night.
“It’s going to be hard to judge because they’re all so cute,” said Vonnie Price, who has been judging the parade for 18 years.
The judges had their work cut out for them. Each display and costume were more elaborate than the next.
Prizes were awarded for the top finishers in each category.
“As long as people are having a great time, that is all that really matters,” said Shirk, who estimated about 4,000 spectators were in attendance.
We Belong, a non-profit group supporting the LGBTQ+ community, joins the Halloween festivities.
Annabella Reed, 16, has been part of the parade since she was two years old. She helps her father build a float every year called “Rock the Pumpkin.” Along with their friends, they spend one month building the float, working five hours every day.
“I’m really proud to be part of it,” said Reed. “I see people in the crowd, and I am glad that I can put that smile on their face. Our hard work doesn’t just affect us but everyone else involved.”
The effort and determination spills out of every float, costume and dance number. Each community member strives to bring the spooky spirit to ensure the night remains a beloved tradition.
The Miss Southern Maritime and Miss Avalon Organization titleholders stand next to a colorful float.
Members of the Art of Gymnastics and Dance are dressed in spooky costumes.
The Rock the Pumpkin Team gets ready for the parade.
A new division for the parade this year features pets in costume.
The Shriver's float includes some funny characters.
