With Cross Road closed from District No. 3’s fire station to Potter Elementary, dozens of costume-clad kids, families, and even pets started Halloween with a parade.

It’s District No. 3’s annual Halloween Bash, which includes a parade down Cross Road and a magic show for kids after the parade on October 31. With neighbors and firefighters lining the streets to toss candy to passing kids, it’s a tradition Chief Richard Arruda knew he wanted to continue.

Originally held on Route 6 when District No. 3 was based out of Smith Mills, Arruda said the parade has stuck to its current route from the Cross Road fire station to Potter and back since the new fire station first opened on the street.

“It’s a safe place for kids to come for Halloween, see a magic show, and get candy,” Arruda said.

The event is supported by a variety of volunteers and groups, including Dartmouth Police, the Dartmouth Emergency Management Agency, and District No. 3’s firefighters, who pitch in to buy candy for the kids, and the Dartmouth High marching band, which led the parade to music.

Nancy Charbonneau and six-year-old Gabby Pires attend the parade every year. She dressed as Rudolph.

“I really like the movie,” Pires added.

Others, like Rebecca Whitlow, came dressed as something a bit creepier. She chose a broken doll.

“I see them in movies so that’s what I wanted to be,” she said.