“Witches Walk” Returns to Parry Sound on October 25 — A Celebratory (and Spooky) Boost to Fall Tourism

By james
October 23, 2025

Parry Sound, ON – October 17, 2025 – The Parry Sound Witches Walk is back for 2025. On Saturday, October 25, broomsticks, cauldrons, and costumes will take over downtown Parry Sound in a family-friendly (yet mischievous) celebration of all things witchy. With a costume contest, street performances, interactive surprises, and themed photo moments, the Witches Walk pairs Halloween fun with real economic impact—drawing residents and visitors downtown during the shoulder season to support local shops and restaurants.

“Lighthearted, yes—but this event is serious in what it does for our community,” said Chris, Parry Sound & Area Chamber of Commerce. “Animating downtown in October helps businesses extend their season, keeps Parry Sound top-of-mind for fall and winter getaways, and builds pride of place.”

April, Downtown Parry Sound Business Association, added: “For our merchants, the Witches Walk is a rare opportunity to generate evening foot traffic in late October. Families come to stroll, enjoy a treat, and stay a while. It’s fun—and it’s essential to keeping our main street vibrant beyond summer.”

This year, Explorers’ Edge (Regional Tourism Organization 12) is supporting the event by commissioning a professional photographer to document the festivities. Assets will be used across marketing channels to extend Parry Sound’s seasonal storytelling and inspire future travel.

“By capturing high-quality visuals, we’re not just documenting a great night—we’re creating content that sustains momentum well beyond October,” said James Murphy, CEO, Explorers’ Edge. “Events like the Witches Walk are catalysts for year-round visitation and small-business vitality across the region.”

Event at a Glance

  • Date: Saturday, October 25, 2025
  • Time: 5:00 p.m. start (final timing to be confirmed by organizers)
  • Where: Market Square Park, Downtown Parry Sound (designated meeting point)
  • Route (planned): From Market Square Park to the closed James Street for the first dance; along Seguin Street to Great North Road; across the old train bridge; escorted return up James Street; finale back at Market Square Park.
  • Cost: Free (select activities may have a small fee)
  • Community Giving: Non-perishable food and monetary donations for Harvest Share Food Bank accepted at the walk and in advance at the Parry Sound Legion.
  • Updates: downtownparrysound.ca and Explorers’ Edge social channels

Programming Highlights

  • Costume Contests (family and adult categories) with prizes
  • Street Entertainment and interactive surprises along the route
  • Trick-or-Treat Stops with participating downtown businesses
  • Themed Photo Ops staffed by volunteers; roving photo capture by the Explorers’ Edge photographer
  • Guided, Safe Walk suitable for all ages

Operations & Visitor Information

  • Road Use & Safety: Portions of James Street will be temporarily closed during program times. On-route marshals and volunteers will assist crossings and wayfinding.
  • Parking: Municipal downtown lots and street parking available; please observe posted signage.
  • Accessibility: The primary route follows sidewalks/road surfaces; event staff can suggest step-free viewing areas and rest points.
  • Weather: The event is rain or shine; dress warmly and consider non-slip footwear.
  • Photography & Media: On-site photography and video will be in effect. Media-ready images will be available post-event on request from Explorers’ Edge.

Organizers invite families, visitors, and lovers of fall festivities to take part—come dressed, come curious, and be ready to join a Halloween tradition with heart.

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Media & Interview Requests

James Murphy, CEO, Explorers’ Edge (RTO12)
[email protected] | 705-706-1649

About Explorers’ Edge

Explorers’ Edge is the Regional Tourism Organization for Muskoka, Parry Sound, Almaguin Highlands, Loring-Restoule, and South Algonquin. We work with community partners and operators to grow a resilient, year-round visitor economy through product development, destination marketing, workforce training, and regenerative tourism initiatives. Learn more at explorersedge.ca.