TLDR
Montclair is one of the best trick-or-treating towns in NJ. Best streets: South End and Center neighborhoods — dense housing, enthusiastic participation, and impressive decorations. Official trick or treat hours are typically 5–8pm on October 31st. The town goes all-out.
Halloween in Montclair NJ — Complete 2026 Guide
Montclair takes Halloween seriously. The density of the South End, the enthusiasm of residents, and the walkability of the neighborhoods make this one of the premier trick-or-treating towns in all of New Jersey. Here's everything you need to know.
Trick or Treat in Montclair NJ
Official Hours
5:00pm – 8:00pm, Oct 31
Best For
Ages 3–12
Decoration Level
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (town-wide)
Participation Rate
Very high — most homes
Montclair's trick-or-treat culture is exceptional. A combination of high population density (many homes close together), a community that genuinely invests in Halloween, and a walkable grid of streets makes for incredible haul potential for kids. It's not unusual for families to drive in from neighboring towns specifically to trick-or-treat in Montclair.
Best Trick or Treat Streets in Montclair
South End (Bay Street area)
Key streets: Grove St, Gates Ave, Elm St, Highland Ave
The highest density of participating homes. Shorter distances between houses = more candy per block. Very popular — gets crowded after 6pm. Great for younger kids who tire quickly.
Center / Midtown
Key streets: Park St, Valley Rd, Church St
Mix of large Victorian homes with elaborate decorations and smaller colonials. The decorated Victorian houses are Instagram-famous by local standards. Slightly less crowded than the South End.
Upper Montclair
Key streets: Edgemont Ave, Lorraine Ave, Highland Ave upper
Larger homes on larger lots — longer walks between houses but often more elaborate setups and better candy (anecdotally). Popular with older kids who can cover more ground.
Halloween Events in Montclair NJ
Bloomfield Avenue Halloween Parade
An annual tradition — kids parade in costume down Bloomfield Avenue. Typically held the Saturday before Halloween. Check the Montclair Township events calendar each fall for the 2026 date and route.
Anderson Park Trunk or Treat
A family-friendly alternative to street trick-or-treating. Cars decorate their trunks, families walk between them in a safe, contained environment. Good for toddlers and families with very young children.
Montclair Art Museum Halloween Events
MAM often hosts family Halloween programming in late October — costume art activities, themed tours, and family nights. Check the MAM website each fall.
Pumpkin Carving at the Farmers Market
The Walnut Street Farmers Market typically runs a pumpkin and fall harvest setup in October. Good pumpkin selection and often carving demonstrations.
Tips for Halloween Night in Montclair
Park early
Street parking fills up by 5:30pm in the South End. Park a few blocks out and walk in.
Bring a flashlight
After 6pm some residential streets get dark quickly. LED flashlights or glow sticks for kids are essential.
Start in the South End, move outward
Hit the densest streets first while kids have energy, then work into the Center neighborhoods.
Layer the costume
NJ Octobers are unpredictable — it can be 70°F or 45°F. A warm layer under the costume saves the night.
FAQ
What time is trick or treat in Montclair NJ?
Official trick or treat hours in Montclair are typically 5:00pm to 8:00pm on October 31st. Check the Montclair Township website in October for the official 2026 announcement, as hours can shift slightly.
Is Montclair NJ good for trick or treating?
Montclair is considered one of the best trick-or-treating towns in New Jersey. High residential density, enthusiastic community participation, and walkable streets combine to create an exceptional Halloween experience. Families from neighboring towns regularly visit just for trick-or-treating.
Is there a Halloween parade in Montclair NJ?
Yes — Montclair typically holds a children's Halloween parade on Bloomfield Avenue the Saturday before Halloween. Check the Montclair Township calendar each fall for the official 2026 date and details.