Palenville’s Raggamuffin Parade and trunk or treat

I’ve said many times how beautiful our Catskill Mountains are, but every now and then, a place comes along that captures your heart in a way that’s hard to explain. Palenville has that kind of magic.

Standing on Woodstock Avenue, near the creek on Sunday, October 25, watching the Raggamuffin Parade roll through town, I couldn’t help but take it all in. With the brilliant autumn foliage surrounding the village and the spirit of Halloween filling the air, it was one of those moments that reminds you just how special life is here in the Catskills.

This is more than just a parade. It’s a tradition woven into the history of Palenville, dating all the way back to the 1950s. For generations, families have gathered to celebrate Halloween, creating memories that have been passed down from parents to children and now to grandchildren. In 2019, the Palenville Fire Department added the Trunk or Treat, bringing a new chapter to this beloved tradition while keeping its original spirit alive.

And what a day it was! The beautiful fall weather, spectacular foliage, and excitement on the faces of so many children made this year’s celebration something extra special. The Palenville Fire Department and its Ladies Auxiliary went above and beyond, bringing the community together for an afternoon filled with laughter, costumes, candy, and the kind of small-town magic that never goes out of style.

In a world that seems to move faster every year, traditions like this have become priceless. They connect generations, celebrate our communities, and remind us that some of the best things in life aren’t found in grand attractions or faraway destinations. They’re right here, in our own backyard, where memories like this become part of our history.

Until next time, I’m your Bro LJ James, and I’ll see you Around the Mountain. Follow me on Facebook at Facebook.com/LJJamesTheBikerDJ.

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