Downtown Findlay is preparing for a festive evening as the 2026 Cops & Kids Findlay Halloween Parade is scheduled to take over South Main Street on Tuesday, October 27. The annual event, presented by loanDepot, will showcase a vibrant display of costumes, marching bands, and decorated floats, beginning its procession at 7 p.m. This year, the parade’s theme invites the community to celebrate “250 Years of American Champions,” highlighting a broad spectrum of local and national achievements.
The evening’s festivities are set to commence earlier, providing ample entertainment leading up to the main parade. Starting at 6 p.m., the YMCA Great Pumpkin Playoff will engage attendees in the Great Lakes Toyota Subaru Entertainment Zone. For those who cannot attend in person, the event will offer a live broadcast that begins at 6:30 p.m. Viewers can tune in to this broadcast through the UFTV YouTube channel or by visiting the Fort Findlay FOP Lodge #20 Foundation Facebook page, ensuring wider community access to the celebrations.
The parade itself is designed to feature not only marching bands and creative floats but also a wide array of Halloween costumes worn by participants, alongside recognitions for community champions. Beyond the visual spectacle, attendees will find a range of amenities to enhance their experience. The Romick Wealth Concepts Food Truck Park, conveniently located at St. Mark’s Church, will host a variety of food trucks, offering diverse culinary options for dinner and snacks. A special highlight for younger attendees and those with a sweet tooth will be the McGuire & Sons Trucking Candy Drop Zone, promising a festive distribution of treats.
To ensure the parade is enjoyable for all community members, organizers have made provisions for various needs. A sensory-friendly Quiet Zone will be available, specifically designed for families seeking a less overwhelming and quieter parade experience. This thoughtful addition is sponsored by Millstream Area Credit Union, demonstrating a commitment to inclusivity.
The Cops & Kids Findlay Halloween Parade is more than just an evening of entertainment; it serves a significant community purpose. Proceeds generated from the event are dedicated to benefiting the Cops & Kids Champion Fund. This fund plays a dual role: first, it actively works to strengthen positive relationships between young people and local law enforcement officials. Second, the fund provides essential assistance to officers and their families throughout Hancock County, offering support where it is most needed. This initiative highlights the event's commitment to both community engagement and the well-being of local public safety personnel.
Community members planning to travel through or attend the events in downtown Findlay on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, should be aware of potential disruptions. Organizers of the parade have issued a warning regarding street closures and traffic restrictions. These measures will affect streets along and surrounding the parade route and are expected to be in effect throughout the entire day. While the specific details were not provided in the immediate announcement, additional information, including comprehensive parade maps, a list of affected street closures, and any further event updates, is made available by Cops & Kids Findlay. These resources are crucial for planning travel and attendance, ensuring a smooth experience for everyone involved in or impacted by the event.
