What is said to be the United States’ second largest Halloween parade was held in Toms River Wednesday night.

It is an annual tradition for many families in Ocean County. In some spots along Main Street, the crowds were packed three or four people deep.

“I’m a kid at heart. I like Halloween. I always dress up. It reminds me of being with family and friends,” says Manahawkin resident Robert Crawford.

Hundreds of costumed people participate in the event. There was Dorothy from “The Wizard of Oz,” a pair of gruesome twins, and a wannabe bride.

“It’s just fun. We love Halloween. It gets the whole community out. Everybody comes out and sees. Its once if the biggest in the United States,” says Brick Township resident Maura Kohlmann.

But in addition to the fun, Toms River officials also took security seriously. Police received help from the Ocean County Sherriff’s Department and even the FBI in order to make sure everyone was safe.

The parade was first held in 1919.