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Have a scary good time at McGregor Halloween Parade and Festival
McGregor Halloween Parade
Prepare for a scary good time at McGregor’s Halloween Parade and Festival on Saturday, Oct. 25. The parade will begin at 10 a.m., and the festival will follow downtown until noon. - photo by Audrey Posten

Prepare for a scary good time at McGregor’s annual Halloween Parade and Festival on Saturday, Oct. 25. 2025 marks the fifth year for the event, organized by the McGregor-Marquette Chamber of Commerce.

“A lot of people love Halloween here. It’s a popular time for residents and visitors,” said McGregor-Marquette Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Mary Anderson.

The event kicks off at 10 a.m., when the parade heads down Main Street. Staging will begin at 9:30 a.m. behind the MFL MarMac McGregor Center. Businesses, organizations and individuals are still welcome to sign up at www.portsofdiscovery.com/chamber-events.

Immediately following the parade until noon, the festival will take place in the Triangle Park area in downtown McGregor. Activities will include a variety of carnival games, a new sensory haunted house, Halloween-themed obstacle course and a photo booth where attendees can dress up like fun, spirited ghosts. Leaf piles will be available for jumping and photo opportunities, play pumpkin tic tac toe, get creative in the Peoples State Bank Halloween coloring contest and enjoy food from First Lutheran Church or at a local restaurant. The nearby Left Bank Shop and Gallery will offer wand making.

Around 10:45 a.m., the winners in the fall and Halloween decorating contest for McGregor-Marquette businesses and homes will be announced. Children of all ages are also welcome to participate in a costume contest.

At 11 a.m., Star Power Dance Team will be in the spotlight for its annual Halloween performance. A witches dance featuring creatively-costumed community members will later follow.

“It’s just a fun, family-friendly day,” said Anderson. “The events don’t cost anything.”

Attendees are also encouraged to visit businesses in town, some of whom will have promotions for the day. Check out the decorated homes and businesses. Triangle Park will be festively adorned with hanging jack-o-lanterns. 

“It’s a festive time. The town is all decked out. It shows off the leaves and historic downtown,” Anderson said.

She’s excited for the McGregor Halloween Parade and Festival to be celebrating its fifth year. The event is fun for people of all ages.

“I enjoy dressing up. It’s like being a big kid,” Anderson shared. “I hope everyone dresses up, even if you’re just watching the parade. Have fun for the day.”

Follow the “Visit McGregor-Marquette, Iowa” Facebook page for more details.