Photos: West Philly is Halloween central, with parades, parties, and costume fun

Several neighborhoods in West Philadelphia have made a tradition of going all out for Halloween, with festivities that have become highly anticipated hallmarks of the season. 

The annual Spruce Hill Halloween Tot Parade transforms the 4200 block of Osage Avenue into a vibrant display of creative spirit. You can witness a kaleidoscope of costumes, from tiny superheroes to elaborately-adorned adults.

Children’s faces light up with excitement as they march alongside parents, and neighbors join the fun, decorating their homes in spooky themes. 

Collectively, these images tell the story of communities coming together to celebrate the magic of Halloween, forging lasting memories and connections in the process.

The cherished tradition of homemade go-karting known as the Dumpster Derby is held on Halloween eve. Residents transform discarded materials into racing wonders that then hurtle down the steepest block of Pine Street, leaving onlookers in awe of the community’s resourcefulness and sense of fun.