The 2024 Witches Ride of Minden, organized by Pearls of Purpose, Inc., saw over 300 riders parade through downtown on October 24, with more than 500 attendees enjoying the event and block party. This year’s festivities raised $12,500, with $4,500 going toward a book donation initiative and $8,000 benefiting the Webster Parish chapter of CASA.
“We’re thrilled with the turnout and the support from the community,” said Sarah Overall of Pearls of Purpose. The $4,500 donation will fund Christmas books for all first graders in the parish, with the chosen title being Stella and the Dino: Alive in Space by Minden native Peyton Gulley, who now resides in California. The remaining $8,000 will support CASA’s efforts to provide birthday and Christmas gifts for children in its programs.
The Witches Ride featured a costume contest judged by five mayors from the Louisiana Mid-Size City Mayors Conference. Winners included Brickstreet Road, named best coven for the second consecutive year, the Gruner sisters and friends with a Wizard of Oz-themed cart, Sharon Chandler as best individual, and the Harry Potter Crew winning People’s Choice.
The third annual Witches Ride is set for October 25, 2025.
