On Saturday, October 26th at 4 PM, the air was crisp and filled with the scent of autumn leaves, perfect for the annual Halloween Parade. The sun shone brightly as neighbors gathered at the intersection of Broadwater and James Halley Drive (scene of the now defunct chainsaw alley), joined by spirited neighbors from both Middleridge and Fairfax Club Estates. Little ghosts, witches, superheroes, video game characters and monsters mingled with frightfully fun coordinated groups making the scene even more festive.
The group paraded down to Middleridge Park, where a spine-chilling party awaited. The streets were lined with neighbors cheering the slithering mass of people as they passed, and the Middleridge neighborhood watch team did a fantastic job of keeping the ghoulish procession safe.
Upon arrival at the park, participants were greeted by a haunted trail shrouded in smoke and filled with eerie sounds that sent shivers down spines—thrilling both the little goblins and their grown-up companions! Our youth volunteers manned the popcorn and cotton candy machines skillfully. And, of course, no Halloween gathering would be complete without a treasure trove of candy and treats that everyone devoured with glee.
The festivities continued with a variety of games, thanks to our dedicated youth volunteers. A special shout out goes to our spirited president, Mary Gonzales, who ran a cup game, which seemed very popular with the little ones.
Prizes were awarded for the best costume, best pet costume, and best group, with competition so fierce that two prizes were given in the latter category! Plus, the judge’s special spooktacular award recognized extra creativity and spirit.
A massive thank you goes out to all the adult and student volunteers who made this hauntingly good event possible. Special thanks to Cora Bellomo, Evan Roskos, Vincent and Mathew Anttila, Vincent and Thomas Via, Jennifer Molina, Samantha Goldhammer, and Neil and Dev Koodallur, our student volunteers, for their tireless help. Huge appreciation also goes to Travis Brown and Wendy Zirngibl from the FCE board of directors for judging the costumes alongside our own Maryn Simon. And let’s not forget Rene Gonzales’s Ford Lightning truck, which powered our popcorn and cotton candy machines—keeping the treats flowing!
It was a day filled with frights, delights, and community spirit!
