Halloween came to State College a week early last night when the streets filled with costumed marchers participating in the annual Halloween Costume Parade.

Over 1,000 children formed the parade, which began at 7 p.m. on North Burrowes Road and marched down College Avenue, South Allen Street, Foster Avenue and into Memorial Field.

The annual event closed portions of College Avenue, South Allen Street and Foster Avenue for about 45 minutes.

About 10 service groups helped out, Recreation Supervisor Beth Lee said.

Spectators lined the sidewalks as the State College Area High School marching band led the parade with students dressed in costumes ranging from fairies to Santa's elves to Bill Clinton playing saxophone.

"I've marched in the parade every year since I was 2," said 16-year-old Alex Frieden, part of the marching band's drum line. "It's great fun."

Children dressed in costume as animals, cartoon characters and monsters followed the high school band.

"It's magical for the kids," said Lee. "There's nothing scary about it, so it's something families can do together."

Our Lady of Victory Catholic School's band marched toward the end.

"We practiced every Thursday for an hour for three weeks," said 10-year-old Jordan Glover, who plays drums for the school band. "I love coming here and seeing everyone in their costumes."

The parade marched to Memorial Field for the costume contest. Costumes were judged in 10 categories, including fairytale characters, cartoon characters and animals.

Pledges from the Delta Sigma fraternity, 508 Locust Lane, judged costumes and handed out prize money donated by the Lions Club to the winners.

"It's the highlight of their year," said Linda Saylor, whose two children participated in the parade. "They love to get dressed up and have fun."