Oxford Lions Club Halloween Parade turns 70!

From pumpkins and candy to costumes and decorations, Oxford, OH is filled with celebrations for the whole family to enjoy each Halloween. A community favorite every year is the Lions Club Halloween Parade in Oxford’s Uptown District. This October is the parade’s 70th year, so be sure to come out and celebrate this long-time community favorite!

The Oxford Lions Club was founded in 1947 and started the Halloween Parade as its first service project. The parade quickly became Oxford’s beloved Halloween tradition and is an event families look forward to each year.

Between 400 and 600 kids participate in the parade each year, showing off their creative costumes to the community. Kids will meet at 7:00 pm at the Princess Theatre on 10 N Beech St., Oxford, OH 45056. Those participating will be split into groups based on their age.

Costume judging always takes place at the end of the parade, with three or four kids being awarded as winners in each age group.

A member of the Oxford Lions Club Kevin McKeehan said he has seen grandparents who participated in the parade as kids, now watch their grandchildren in the parade.

“It’s nothing too formal - just a fun, relaxed event that everyone in Oxford enjoys,” McKeehan said.

So find costumes for the whole family and come on out to this Oxford favorite on Thursday, October 26! Enjoy these photos of the winners in The Oxford Press from the Lion Club's first-ever parade in 1947!