Halloween Window Painting in Rye Celebrates 70th Anniversary

(RYE, NEW YORK) -– Every October the town of Rye, just north of New York City, celebrates the fall season in a unique way. The storefronts on Purchase Street become canvas’ for little artists to create their scariest masterpieces. Halloween Window Painting is a long held tradition that is embedded in the town’s history.

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“This is a nostalgic event for me,” said high schooler Cami Huber. “It brings all the youth of Rye together. I remember looking forward to painting and wanting them to be in the center of town so everyone could see my halloween painting.”

There are 500 teams of kids who compete each year and many plan out their sketches to perfect their paintings. The artwork ranges from abstract to scary but each one is unique and creative.

“It’s like our own little gallery on Purchase street,” said one resident. “I love to grab a coffee and look at all the kids’ artwork – some of it is quite good”

This year the event was co-sponsored by the Rye Recreation Department  and  Women’s Club of Rye, Children’s Philanthropy. In addition to the window painting, there is also live music, food and magic shows. This year marks the 70th anniversary of this long standing fall festival.