Annual Edwardsville/Glen Carbon Halloween Parade canceled this year

The annual Edwardsville/Glen Carbon Chamber of Commerce Halloween Parade, a tradition of close to a century, has been canceled for the year due to COVID-19.

The event attracts up to 20,000 attendees each year, including those on the floats, bands walkers and parade watchers.  That popularity makes it a health concern this year for the community, the Chamber, in conjunction with the city of Edwardsville, said.

Large gatherings for special events are not being allowed at this time in the state.  The decision is being announced early out of respect to the 100-plus community organizations and businesses that put significant money and work hours into the design and construction of their floats.

“I am optimistic that this annual tradition will continue in 2021, provided participants and spectators have a safe environment from which to enjoy the parade. We respect the significant investment of time and funds from all involved and will do everything in our power, weather permitting, to ensure next year’s Edwardsville/Glen Carbon Chamber of Commerce Halloween parade occurs on Sunday, Oct. 31, 2021,” said Ed/Glen Chamber President and CEO Desirée Bennyhoff.

The Alton Halloween Parade, another large parade in Metro East, was also called off by its sponsors, the East End Improvement Association, a few weeks ago.