In 1954, the Mays Landing Rotarians had the idea to deter children from participating in what is known as “Mischief Night.” They would go on to create a parade for the community. Too much of their surprise, the children did not egg cars or houses. Instead, legend has it that the children decided to egg the band. This became one of the first expenses of the Halloween Parade – cleaning the band uniforms. The idea of the parade was originally themed after the New Year’s Mummers Parade with several diverse categories. As years passed, organizations such as the local sports teams joined in on the parade. Local businesses would build floats to showcase their occupations. Sixty-seven years later, the parade continues strong thanks to the many volunteers, donations, and all the participants.
– Fred Kneble of Kneble’s Auto Service Center & Freddy J’s Bar & Kitchen; President of Mays Landing Halloween Parade Committee