Ocean Springs' Witches Ride has raised more than $114,000 for animal rescues
What began as about 30 costumed bike riders in 2018 is now an award-winning Halloween tradition that funds local animal welfare groups. The ninth ride is October 24.
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The Witches Ride of Ocean Springs began in 2018 with about 30 people on bicycles. It has since raised more than $114,000 for local animal welfare groups, the Biloxi Sun Herald reported. The ninth ride returns downtown at 6 p.m. on October 24. Spectators watch for free while costumed participants hand out treats. Registration for riders 18 and older is $60 a person or $100 a golf cart.
The nonprofit, led by president Diana Odom, also raises money through a Halloween pub crawl, a raffle, and a pet parade. Riders sometimes spend months on costumes and on decorating bikes and carts. The Mississippi Main Street Association named it the 2026 outstanding holiday event. Odom said this year's funds are meant to ease costs so the groups can keep their attention on the animals.
For the classroom
In Ocean Springs, Mississippi, people dress as witches and ride decorated bikes, golf carts, and even walk through downtown to raise money for animals. The Witches Ride started in 2018 with about 30 people on bicycles. Since then it has given more than $114,000 to local groups that care for animals. The ninth ride is the evening of October 24. People watching from the sidewalk can come for free and catch treats. The ride itself is for registered adults. This year the event also won a Mississippi Main Street award for outstanding holiday events. President Diana Odom said the money helps shelters pay for food, supplies, and vet care.
- How did a small costume bike ride turn into help for animals?
- Why can kids watch the ride even if they cannot join it?
- What is one way a town parade can raise money for a shelter?
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