It was another successful year for the Village of Brightwaters’ annual Ragamuffin Halloween Parade held on Oct. 27. Starting at 5 p.m., residents made their way to the Four Corners for a 5:30 p.m. start time. Children and adults were dressed up in costumes and getting an early start just four days before Halloween.

Over 1000 people gathered at the Four Corners shortly before 5:30 p.m. and paraded along N. Windsor Avenue before stopping at Wohseepee Park. The Bay Shore Fire Department band performed and led the way for residents. Residents near the park had candy for young trick-or-treaters to enjoy.

Also present at the event was the mayor of Brightwaters, John Valdini, and his wife Colleen Valdini. Six years ago, when John Valdini was elected mayor, the Village of Brightwaters began decorating the tennis courts located at the park, along with help from the Brightwaters Business Association, which became a sponsor with Brightwaters.

The event, which was previously held on Halloween Day, was eventually changed to the Sunday before Halloween. Additionally, to make the parade accessible to families with young children, after John Valdini was elected mayor, the start time was moved up to 5:30 p.m. instead of 7 p.m., providing more daylight for those who participate in the parade.

Once everyone made their way to Wohseepee Park, they were greeted by a continued performance by the Bay Shore Fire Department followed by Halloween music playing through speakers. Halloween inflatables filled the tennis courts, providing the ultimate Halloween aesthetic.