IRVINGTON — Started in 1946 after World War II, the Irvington business community decided to bring back a 1920’s tradition of a street dance and parade down Washington St. Over the years, the festival grew, evolved, and changed with the times. Now, the Historic Irvington Festival is in its 80th year, and it draws people from all over to celebrate Halloween for the whole week leading up to the Street Fair.
On Thursday, Oct. 29 at 6 p.m., venture out to Irving Circle Park (South Audubon) for spooky stories and a special performance by the Black Hat Society of Irvington witches. There will be beverages from the SNUG, and lots of fun. Admission is free.
On Friday, Oct. 30, the Zombie Bike Ride begins at 6 p.m. at the Irvington Library, 5625 E. Washington St. All bikes will need a bike light and helmets. Dress up like the undead, deck out your ride, and have fun riding the streets of Irvington while residents wave and cheer you on! This is a free event.
This year, the festival’s Street Fair will be held on Halloween day, Saturday, Oct. 31 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. East Washington St. will be closed between Ritter and Arlington, and Audubon will also be closed from University to Lowell beginning at 4 a.m. Residents will have access to their homes, but will not be allowed to park on the streets. This year, the Street Fair will close an hour earlier than usual so families can go home and get ready for trick-or-treating (6-8 p.m. in Indianapolis).
The Vampire Run begins at 9:30 a.m., taking runners through Irvington (watch out for road closures). The Street Fair begins at 10 a.m., as well as the Canine Costume Contest registration (until 11 a.m.), in person registration for the human Costume Contest (until 11:30 a.m.).
Check out the wrestling show at 11 a.m. in the Kid Zone (behind the library), and the Little Bat Dash at 11:30 a.m. At noon, there will be a Cackling Contest on the Family Stage. There is a lot to see and do until the Awards for Costumes, Window Painting, and House Decorating contests are announced from the Main Stage.
The line-up for the parade will be at 3 p.m. in front of the Irvington Methodist Church, and it will run south on Audubon at 3:30 p.m. This is really the highlight of the festival, with lots of great costumes and bands. The Street Fair ends at 4 p.m. so everyone can get home and get ready for the trick-or-treating!
While you’re at the street fair, check out the fabulous businesses along East Washington St. There are a lot of food options at the fair, and our local merchants would appreciate your business!
Early weather reports show temperatures in the low 70s, and no rain for the 31st.
