Anoka’s 2025 Halloween Events

By Mark Callender

Hello, my name is Mark Callender and I am a licensed real estate agent with RE/MAX Results. Because I have been helping families buy and sell their homes for more than 18 years, I am now helping their children to buy their first homes and their parents to downsize. No matter the direction you’re moving, my goal is to make the process as calm and enjoyable as it can be.

Looking for a fun and unique Halloween destination? Let me introduce you to a small Minnesota town with a spooky reputation: Anoka, the Halloween Capital of the World.

I recently had the chance to visit and take a stroll down Main Street, where the energy is already building for this year’s events. From the colorful murals to the excited chatter of locals preparing for the parade, Anoka is buzzing with spooky season spirit, and for good reason.

Whether you’re into parades, pub crawls, or pumpkin carving, Anoka offers something for every Halloween enthusiast. Here are exciting Halloween events you won’t want to miss:

1. Halloween Grand Parade
Anoka’s signature event is its legendary Halloween Grand Parade, which is one of the longest-running in the country. Stretching over a mile and lasting nearly three hours, it features themed floats, costumed dancers, marching bands, and community groups all dressed to impress. It’s a beloved tradition for locals and visitors alike.

2. Outdoor tent parties
Bring your friends and enjoy food, drinks, and live music under the fall sky. These tented gatherings offer a festive vibe that’s perfect for kicking off an evening of Halloween fun.

3. Zombie Pub Crawl
Put on your best undead look and join the crowd as you shuffle through local bars. This popular adults-only event brings out the city’s spookier (and spirited) side.

4. Historic ghost walks
Take a guided stroll through Anoka’s haunted history. Downtown ghost walks mix eerie stories with real local legends and make for a perfect chilly evening activity.

5. Family-friendly festivities
Looking for something fun and not-so-scary? Anoka hosts costume contests, pumpkin carving stations, and other activities the whole family can enjoy.

Anoka doesn’t just celebrate Halloween; it embodies it. You’ll find spooky murals on buildings, themed window displays in local shops, and festive lights lining the streets. Even the local businesses get involved, with restaurants and antique stores offering Halloween-themed specials and decor.

But beyond the costumes and festivities, there’s a real sense of community here. It’s become a place where people come for Halloween, but stay for the charm. If you’ve never been to Anoka during Halloween, this is the year to make the trip. To learn more about Anoka, check out this link.

Get out there, have fun, and enjoy the unique atmosphere Anoka has to offer, and don’t hesitate to call me at 612-961-9448 or email me at Mark@MarkCallenderHomes.com if you have any questions.