The seventh annual Witches Ride, a parade benefiting Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, will roll through downtown Florence on Oct. 26. Participants dressed as witches will throw candy to children as they make their way from Wilson Park to Court Street. 

The event, which includes awards for Best Costume, Best Coven Theme and Best Decorated Broom or Bike, is aimed at raising funds to provide free books to children. While the Imagination Library is free for enrolled families, it costs organizers $35 per child per year, said the event coordinator, Carrie Del Pivo.

“We pay for the kids to be enrolled, and that’s what the fundraiser is for,” she said. “Every dime raised goes directly to books for children.”

This year, around 60 participants have registered so far, and organizers expect more to sign up in the final days. They hope to reach 150. On-the-day registration is available, with UNA students receiving a $10 discount.

Following the parade, an after-party will feature 14 local restaurants offering discounts on appetizers, cocktails and mocktails. The event is family-friendly, with some venues offering free cheese dips and non-alcoholic beverages for those under 21.

“We want people to have fun, but it’s also about raising awareness and money for a great cause,” she said. 

Organizers are hoping to involve more groups next year, including the University of North Alabama’s band and local floats, to make the event even larger.

The Witches Ride is the only fundraiser of its kind dedicated solely to supporting the Imagination Library, making it a significant event for the community.