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Group cancels Alton’s Halloween Parade, one of area’s largest

The East End Improvement Association has announces the cancellation of the 2020 Alton Halloween Parade, one of the region’s largest such parades, due to COVID-19.

“We regret to cancel this fun, wonderful family tradition,” stated Steve Schwartz, spokesman of the East End Improvement Association. “After much deliberation, we felt that for the health of our community, it is the safest decision we could make. It would be impossible for both the parade participants and visitors to adhere to the required health guidelines during this pandemic. We look forward to seeing everyone again next year.”

The East End has sponsored the Alton Halloween Parade since its’ inception in 1916. The Alton Halloween Parade historically has 80 to 90 groups participating. The parade attracts up to 25,000 visitors.

The East End Improvement Association, dating back to the 1870s, is one of the oldest community organizations in the Riverbend area. The East End’s noted community projects include sponsoring and organizing the Alton Halloween and Memorial Day Parades, the Alton Candidates Forum, and awarding two scholastic scholarships to graduating high school seniors. Members of the East End also participate with Pride, Inc.’s Bucket Brigade, Salvation Army Bell Ringing, partnering with the North Alton Godfrey Business Council on the Benjamin Godfrey Legacy Trail, and more.

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