Halloween Parade and Costume Contest Canceled Due to Budget Cuts

Witches, fairies and ghosts usually descend upon Todos Santos Plaza each year, the Sunday before Halloween, for a costume contest and parade extravaganza. But this year — they'll have to stick to trick-or-treating on Oct. 31.

The city has canceled the annual Halloween event, which in past years has included a parade, free treats, entertainment, a Pooch Parade and a costume contest. "This event is no longer possible due to budget cuts," the city announced in a press release.

The annual scarecrow contest will be continued, with 13 stores in the downtown area dressing scarecrows in their windows around the theme of "elections." Residents can vote on the best from Oct. 13 to 28.

Little girls and ghouls also have the opportunity to trick or treat in the plaza on Halloween, Oct. 31, from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Participating businesses will fly orange and black balloons.

Last year's Halloween parade kicked off at noon, as costumed kids and adults marched around the plaza picking up free treats while the judges determined the best dressed. The parade was led by Mr. Carrot, mascot for the Concord's Farmers' Market, and the Bookworm, mascot for Half Price Books. There was a live concert, a dance performance, and demonstrations by the Concord Police Department's K9 unit.

The Mayor's Mongrel Mash Pooch Parade costume contest took place in the afternoon. Take a look at pictures from last year's event on Claycord.com.

Will you miss the Halloween parade and costume contest in Todos Santos Plaza? What will you do instead? Share your thoughts in the comments.