Halloween is always a good time and every season you can always count on fun events during the spooky season. The Channel Islands Harbor ‘Parade of Frights’ is an annual event in Oxnard, California. I checked out the event with my family and the kids love trick-or-treating and seeing the boats decorated with bright lights for Halloween.
Planning to visit? Here’s your guide to the Parade of Frights at the Channel Islands Harbor.
Channel Islands Harbor Parade Of Frights
There are several family things to do at the Parade of Frights, but the main attraction is the boat parade. It kicks off at 7 pm at the Marine Emporium Landing and Peninsula Park area of the Harbor. If you arrive early, you can see the boats line up.
The Channel Islands Maritime Museum hosts a free Spooky Scavenger Hunt at the Channel Islands Maritime Museum & Mystic Whaler Tall Ship. My boys loved checking out all the activities and the ship too. We did some arts and crafts, played some games and we also got some candy.
After checking out the ship, we made our way to The Channel Islands Farmers Market at Marine Emporium Landing. There was an inflatable jump zone, trick-or-treating, music and lots of space for the kids to run around. We checked out the local vendors and had fun seeing all the unique costumes. There was a costume contest and a costume parade.
Since the parade is at 7 pm, we decided to eat dinner at the Channel Islands Harbor. We love all the restaurants here including Waterside, Sea Fresh and Moqueca. You can’t really go wrong dining here and you can see the parade from most of the Harbor restaurants.
Parade of Frights Route
The Parade of Frights starts at Marine Emporium Landing and Peninsula Park area of the Harbor. Boats head to the Main Channel, turn at Kiddie Beach, loop in front of the launch ramp, before heading back to the Pacific Corinthian Yacht Club.
If you miss some of the action, the boats loop around twice.
Getting There
Marine Emporium Landing is located at 3600 Harbor Boulevard in Oxnard, California.
Where to Stay
Zachari Dunes – Relax in style in this oceanfront luxe hotel in Oxnard.
Hampton Inn Channel Islands Harbor – Soak in those Harbor views and get a close-up look at the boats from here.
Know Before You Go
- The weather cools down as it gets dark, so bring a jacket or a blanket.
- You can bring a chair or a blanket to sit on.
- Enjoy food and drinks from local vendors or check out the restaurants at the Channel Islands Harbor.
- Parking is free.
- There are public restrooms and portable toilets.
- Arrive early to find parking and a good spot to watch the parade.
- Dress up in your Halloween costume to add to the festive spirit.
Conclusion
The Parade of Frights is more than just a parade; it’s a celebration of the Halloween spirit. Whether you’re seeking spine-tingling chills or family-friendly fun, this event is sure to leave you spellbound.
So mark your calendars, gather your loved ones, and prepare to be spooktacularly entertained at the Channel Islands Harbor Parade of Frights.
All photos by: Brallan Perez
Thank you Visit Oxnard, for hosting our stay. All opinions are my own.
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