The history
of The
12th Street
Halloween Contest

The Contest!

The 12th Street Halloween Contest began in 2008 with two neighbors, friends, and Halloween enthusiasts, Dottie and Mary. Sharing a love for all things spooky, they wanted to inspire their neighbors to go all out for Halloween and bring a little extra magic to the block. Their idea was simple: start a friendly decorating contest and get the whole neighborhood involved.

What began as a small contest among neighbors on 12th Street quickly grew into a beloved Park Slope tradition. Year after year, more homes joined in, displays became more creative and elaborate, and the excitement spread beyond 12th Street to neighboring blocks and new contestants throughout the community.

Over the years, the contest has grown from something shared mostly by word of mouth into a tradition celebrated through websites, social media, and—most importantly—neighbors telling neighbors.

But the heart of the contest has never changed. It’s about bringing people together, celebrating creativity, and showing some serious Halloween spirit. It’s not just about decorating a home—it’s about imagining, creating, building, and transforming our stoops, sidewalks, yards, and facades into something fun, spooky, surprising, and memorable for the entire neighborhood to enjoy.

Today, the current organizers are proud and excited to carry on the tradition that Dottie and Mary started back in 2008. We hope the 12th Street Halloween Decorating Contest continues to inspire neighbors, welcome new participants, and bring a little Halloween magic to Park Slope for many years to come.

So get creative, get spooky, and join the tradition!

Through the Years

YEAR 1

The first homes decorate and neighbors vote
informally.

Favorite Memories