The New Iberia Halloween Parade is fast becoming one of the most popular parade events in Iberia Parish.

The parade was started in 2021 by New Iberia city government as an attempt to bring more festivities to the city for the Halloween season. The parade kicks off Saturday at 4 p.m.

Ghosts, ghouls and plenty of candy are a part of the annual event, along with several extra treats for event-goers. For those attending this year’s parade, here are three things to look out for.

Turning the fountain black

The fountain in front of the New Iberia Civic Center has played a special part during St. Patrick’s Day, but the Halloween parade also uses the fountain for its own festivities.

Instead of turning the water green like the St. Patrick’s Day event, New Iberia Halloween Parade organizers turn the water black in order to give a spooky atmosphere for those celebrating. The color change is the kickoff event for the parade and allows event-goers to wear costumes, mingle in front of City Hall and prepare for the official kickoff of the parade.

Parade route

Following the changing of the fountain, the parade will proceed to downtown New Iberia. The parade traditionally features plenty of costumes, golf carts and trailers decorated with all kinds of Halloween-themed attire.

Event-goers can set up a chair anywhere between the Civic Center and Bouligny Plaza. Candy throws and other special treats are distributed to children for the parade and those attending typically see iconic Halloween characters from horror movie figures to children’s favorites.

Party at Bouligny

The fun will continue at Bouligny Plaza, where music and vendors will be open near the Steamboat Warehouse Pavilion. Organizers have said that jambalaya, bread pudding, gumbo, chili dogs and funnel cakes will be just a few of the options available for food choices at the plaza.

A musical performance from the Chee Weez is also scheduled at 6 p.m.