Pumpkin Parades: What you need to know for 2018

Pumpkin Parade season is upon us. Last year, there were 47 Pumpkin Parades held in parks in every corner of the city. Whether you’re hosting a parade for the first time, or you’re a seasoned pro, there are a few important things to know about planning your parade in Toronto parks this year. The deadline to apply to host a Pumpkin Parade is October 12, so don’t delay!

Pumpkin Parade permits during election period:

Due to the elections, the application process for Pumpkin Parades is different because Councillors cannot sponsor the community event.

The permit fee is waived for not-for-profits and community groups. Unless the not-for-profit or community group has insurance, the fee for insurance is:

• • $27 for 1 – 100 pumpkins*/ people
  • $54 for 101 – 500 pumpkins*/ people (you cannot have more than 1,000 pumpkins)

*The City will require this information to determine the size of bin needed. 

For Insurance, you must submit proof of third party liability insurance, naming the City of Toronto as an additional insured, in the amount of $2,000,000.

BIA and others would have to pay a permit fee of $99.91. Insurance would be free because it is assumed that the BIA and others have insurance.

Pumpkin Parade application:

The deadline to apply is October 12, 2018. You can call Paula Simms (416-338-3940) or Carol Lord (416-397-9982) or go to the City of Toronto website and request the application package. They will only give out one pumpkin parade permit per park.

You will have to submit:

• The completed application form
• Proof of insurance
• A map of the park showing where the pumpkins will be placed and where you would like the bin to be placed; and
• A flyer (which we’ll feature at Pumpkinparades.ca)