Cheers and music filled Santa Cruz Avenue at the annual Halloween Hoopla parade on Saturday afternoon. The event drew people of all ages to trick-or-treat and enjoy live music.
The parade started with bands from Hillview Middle School, La Entrada Middle School, and M-A leading the crowd from the intersection of El Camino Real and Santa Cruz Avenue to Fremont Park. Local stores and pop-up tents handed out candy to passing children.
Once the parade ended, the crowd gathered at Fremont Park, where Menlo Park Mayor Betsy Nash opened the second half of the Hoopla with a welcoming speech. “Thank you all for attending and bringing your energy, creativity, and community spirit here today,” she said. “Please enjoy all of the afternoon’s carnival activities and stay safe.”
Attendees checked out the craft tables, tents, and performances by professional entertainers. The tents were manned by local businesses and organizations, including Cheeky Monkey Toys, Bow Wow Meow, and American Medical Response. Police and firemen also gave helmets and stickers to children.
Along with the buzz of Santa Cruz, many families stayed to watch the entertainers’ performance at Fremont Park. The show featured magic acts, as well as more live music from the school bands, connecting everybody in a fun and playful way. The festivities were enhanced thanks to the city’s encouragement to families to bring their pets. Dressed-up dogs drew crowds of delighted children and added to the festive spirit.
Children then lingered around the park to eat, play, and enjoy the fun and inclusive atmosphere, while parents relaxed nearby on the lawn.
This Halloween Hoopla was unlike any other, drawing people from all over Menlo Park together, uniting local businesses, and creating multigenerational traditions.
“Events like this are the true heartbeat of Menlo Park,” Nash said. “They give us a chance to step away from our busy routines, connect with neighbors, and create lifelong memories right here in the heart of our downtown.”
