Krewe Kids: How to Do Halloween Weekend with the Whole Family

New Orleans may be known for its wild nights and haunted happenings, but Halloween weekend with the Krewe of BOO! isn’t just for the grown-up ghouls—it’s a family-friendly fright fest from start to finish.

With dancing skeletons, spooky swag, costumed crowds, and candy galore, it’s a weekend your little monsters won’t forget (and neither will you). Whether you’re chasing zombies or catching throws, here’s how to make the Zombie Run and Halloween Parade a scream—for everyone in your krewe.

🧟‍♀️ 1. Start Strong at the Zombie Run

📍 Saturday morning, Lucy's Retired Surfer's Bar @ 701 Tchoupitoulas

Yes, it’s a 2-mile dash from the undead—but it’s also a blast for kids!

• Kid-friendly tip: Dress your little ones as survivors or mini-zombies! Many kids walk or trot the course in costume, and there’s no pressure to sprint.

• Bring a stroller or wagon for younger children who want to ride along—and decorate it like a zombie escape pod!

• Pre-run face painting stations are often available, and zombies stay playful (not too scary) for kids who need a gentler version of the apocalypse.

🧃 Bonus:  There’s music, snacks, and tons of photo ops at the starting line.

🎃 2. Plan Your Parade Spot Like a Pro

📍 Saturday evening, along Decatur, Canal, or Tchoupitoulas Streets

The Krewe of BOO! Parade is spooky—but in the fun way. It’s full of color, creativity, and family-friendly thrills. Here’s how to enjoy it with kids:

• Arrive early to find a safe, comfortable viewing spot near the start or middle of the route (Decatur Street and Canal Street are great for families).

• Bring a trick-or-treat bag or tote for all the throws—they’ll catch beads, plush toys, light-up trinkets, and more.

• Dress up as a family—you’ll get more throws and more high-fives. Matching zombie families and group costumes are a crowd favorite.

• Noise-canceling headphones are great for little ones sensitive to sound, especially when the brass bands or fog cannons roll by.

• Glow sticks or LED bracelets help keep kids visible once the sun goes down.

👻 Parental win: Some restaurants and hotels along the route offer family-friendly balcony or patio packages with food, bathrooms, and guaranteed space.

🎭 Keep the Weekend Fun & Safe

• Pack snacks, sunscreen, and water (yes, even in October).

• Set a “home base” meeting spot in case anyone gets separated.

• Snap a photo of your kids in costume before heading out, just in case.

• Establish a treat limit early so the candy coma doesn’t hit too hard (or too soon).

🕯️ Don’t Forget the Magic Moments

Between the parades and parties, take time to:

• Visit a pumpkin patch or spooky-themed brunch.

• Explore French Quarter shops for mini voodoo dolls and glow-in-the-dark souvenirs.

• Let your child’s costume take center stage. It’s Halloween in New Orleans—they’ll be a star.

So go ahead—bring the whole krewe. With the right planning, Halloween weekend becomes a shared adventure full of music, mayhem, and memories your family will be howling about for years.

🎃 Because here in New Orleans, Halloween is for everyone—from tiny trick-or-treaters to full-grown phantoms.