What Happened To Halloween on Head Ave? A Tradition we need to bring back!

A few days ago, Heather and I stopped by Santa Fe Mexican Restaurant in Tallapoosa for what we thought would be a simple lunch. We didn’t plan to talk about city business or community issues—just a quiet afternoon together—but sometimes the most meaningful conversations happen when you least expect them.

As we sat down, a familiar face passed our table. She’s someone I’ve seen at several community meetings and local ballgames—a kind, engaged resident who genuinely cares about our town. I waved her over and invited her to join us, and what started as a casual hello turned into a conversation that I’ll be thinking about for a long time.

We began, as so many Tallapoosa conversations do, by talking about our kids—what they enjoy doing, what they wish they could do, and what opportunities we’d like to see more of for families right here at home. Before long, she mentioned that she once owned a local business downtown. That caught my attention. As she shared her story, I realized she wasn’t just describing her experience—she was capturing something much deeper about the heart of this community.

She told me about a time when Halloween in Tallapoosa was nothing short of magical.

It was called Halloween on Head Avenue—a downtown celebration that drew hundreds, even thousands, of children and parents from across West Georgia. Local shops transformed their storefronts with decorations, music filled the air, and the laughter of families echoed through the streets. People planned for weeks, sometimes months, just to make the event special. It wasn’t about business—it was about belonging.

When I asked what happened, her smile faded a little. She explained that the past few years had taken a toll—starting in 2019, when the world seemed to change overnight. The pandemic hit. We lost a great mayor. The economy grew uncertain. Businesses struggled, and one by one, the events that brought us together started to fade away. The energy, the excitement, the sense of togetherness that defined Tallapoosa—slowly dimmed.

Then she shared something I’ll never forget. She said,

“Imagine you’re on the high school football team, playing your heart out against your rival. Then you look over and see your coaches sitting on the bench laughing, the cheerleaders are gone, half the band didn’t show up, and the stands are half empty. That’s what it feels like to be a business owner here right now.”

That image hit me hard. Because she’s right—no team, no player, no town can thrive without support.

Her words reminded me that community spirit isn’t built by policies or ordinances—it’s built by people showing up. It’s about leaders being present, neighbors cheering for each other, and businesses knowing that their town has their back. When that spirit fades, so does the energy that keeps a small town alive.

After she left, Heather and I sat for a while, just reflecting. We both agreed: rebuilding that sense of connection is one of the most important things we can do for Tallapoosa’s future. Not just for our businesses, but for our families, our children, and the generations to come.

Because the truth is—Tallapoosa still has heart. It’s in our churches, our schools, our local restaurants, and the people who wave when you pass by on Head Avenue. We’ve weathered hard times before, and we can do it again. But it starts with all of us—showing up, lending a hand, and believing in what this town can be again.

Bringing Back Halloween on Head Avenue

Listening to her story lit a spark. I couldn’t stop thinking about how much joy that event brought to our community and how much it meant to families and local businesses alike. It reminded me that sometimes, rebuilding community spirit starts with something as simple—and as fun—as a shared celebration.

We might not be able to bring back Halloween on Head Avenue this year, but we can start planning for next year. Together, we can make it even better than before—by working with local businesses, churches, civic groups, and volunteers to line the street with pumpkins, music, and laughter once again. Imagine downtown filled with costumed kids, decorated storefronts, and families from all across West Georgia rediscovering the magic of Tallapoosa.

That’s the kind of project that builds pride, strengthens relationships, and reminds us all why we love calling this place home. It’s not just about one night—it’s about bringing back the heartbeat of our city.

And maybe, one day soon, the sound of laughter and music will once again fill downtown on Halloween night. Kids from across West Georgia will run down Head Avenue in their costumes, and we’ll be reminded—just like that business owner reminded me—why this little town is so worth fighting for.

Joe Glass for Mayor of Tallapoosa

The Clear Choice for Responsible Family-Focused Growth