Downtown Sturgeon Bay was filled with color, creativity, and plenty of Halloween costumes this morning as hundreds of children and families took part in the annual Kids Costume Parade. The event, organized by Destination Sturgeon Bay, invited young ghosts, superheroes, princesses, and teeny pumpkins to stroll down Third Avenue, showing off their best spooky and silly Halloween looks while grabbing some candy along the way.

Local businesses got in on the fun as well, greeting participants with candy, stickers, and big smiles. Parents lined the sidewalks, taking photos while the children strutted past in everything from homemade hotdog suits to classic Elmos and Caspers. Many storefronts were decorated for the occasion, adding to the festive atmosphere and encouraging families to explore downtown before and after the parade.

The Sturgeon Bay Police Department helped ensure participants could safely enjoy the celebration, briefly closing streets along the parade route. For many families, the parade has become a favorite tradition leading into the Halloween weekend.

Event organizers say the parade is not only a chance to celebrate the holiday, but also an opportunity to come out to the many other Halloween events planned today.  The Boys and Girls Club has their annual free haunted house open to all.  Kitty’s is putting on their spooky kid’s dance party this afternoon as well.  There is also live music scheduled downtown throughout the day at local shops and restaurants, where there are plenty of Halloween themed food and drink specials.

 Based on today’s turnout, Sturgeon Bay’s Halloween spirit is alive and well.