Ready to dive into one of Athens' most beloved traditions? The Wild Rumpus Halloween Parade and Spectacle has become an iconic part of the city's identity, a wild and whimsical celebration of community, creativity, and, of course, costumes. Born from a conversation between Athens musician Timi Conley and local music aficionado Daniel Peiken, the idea for the parade started as a way to promote Conley’s record Nerd Sexy. What began as a small idea has grown into a massive, city-wide event that embodies the spirit of Athens. As Conley puts it, "People now tell me it's one of the things that makes Athens Athens and that it's their favorite time of the year, which is an incredible honor."

If you're gearing up for this year's Wild Rumpus on Saturday, October 26th, you’re in for a treat! From joining the parade to tips for rocking your costume, here’s how to make the most of the night.

1. Get Your Costume On!

The Wild Rumpus is all about creativity, so the more unique your costume, the better! Whether you go for spooky, quirky, or downright hilarious, don’t hold back. You still have time to craft a stunning costume. It's your chance to be part of the living artwork that is the parade.

2. Join the Preparty Energy

Head to Creature Comforts early for the preparty, which kicks off at 5 p.m. with live performances by Organically Programmed, Love.Craft Band, and Dekadance PLUS the release of the Official Beer of Wild Rumpus, Creature Comforts “FLASH CAT” Imperial IPA. It’s a perfect time to get hyped with music and take in all of artistry of the costumes around you.

3. Bring Your Dancing Shoes

The parade isn’t just for walking! With live DJs, performances, and an infectious crowd, you’ll want to be ready to break out your best moves throughout the night. Dance your way through the streets and let loose in the Festival Zone.

4. Stay in the Festival Zone for Drinks

The open-container policy inside the Festival Zone means you can grab a drink (beer or wine) and join the party after the parade. Note that alcoholic beverages aren't allowed along the parade route. Don’t forget to pick up your $5 wristband at one of the sponsoring venues like Creature Comforts Brewery or Trappeze Pub before joining the parade.

5. Map Out Your Route

With the parade covering downtown, make sure you know where the action will be! The Festival Zone on W. Washington St. will be the heart of the fun, but you can follow the flow of the crowd along the route to soak in every moment.

6. Fuel Up for the Night

Stop by one of the nearby spots like Taco Mama or Ted's Most Best for some food before the parade kicks off. You’ll want to have plenty of energy to dance, party, and parade well into the night.

7. Snap Photos, But Don’t Miss the Fun

Yes, you’ll want to capture some moments, but make sure to also put your phone away and immerse yourself in the spectacle. The parade is full of unexpected delights that are best experienced in the moment.

8. Keep the Party Going at the Midnight Howl

Once the parade wraps up, the fun is far from over! Head to Paloma Park for the Midnight Howl afterparty, where Cardynal & the Flock and BROasis will keep the vibes alive until 2 a.m.

9.Make it a full weekend!

Kick off Friday with the Athens Showgirl Cabaret Halloween show at Hendershots, Candlelight: A Haunted Evening of Halloween Classics at Morton Theatre, or Shocktoberfest at Cine. Rock Rumpus on Saturday, and wrap up the weekend with the Jack-O-Lantern Jog 5K with One Mile Goblin Fun Run at Sandy Creek Nature Center.

10. Be Part of the Tradition

Whether it’s your first Rumpus or your tenth, remember that you’re part of a wild, creative, and community-driven tradition.