The best place to ask this question is probably on our
"Halloween at DL" super thread. That's where the highest concentration of past and future Halloween party guests is and someone might have a better answer!
As far as I know, I don't think there is any confusion about it. I don't think there is a 'real' parade. Otherwise, it would be advertised and promoted. DLR would make sure to let people know well in advance if there were a separate Halloween parade at the party, or like an actual parade event.
I posted in the Halloween thread ages (and many pages) ago that I recalled reading somewhere that there was a Halloween parade (separate from the Halloween party) at DL a few years ago. One of our Dis-ers pointed out that it wasn't an actual parade. And the thing that takes place during the Halloween Party (in the pictures you posted the link for) is sort of a quick cavalcade of characters, I think. It's not a real parade, from what I understand and have been told. I was at the TOTP in 2008, and if that cavalcade happened, it must have been quick because I saw no signs of it!
Also, since the party is happening at DL this year instead of DCA, there is no telling what will be there, but we have all pretty much concluded that if there were going to be anything new, Disney would have promoted it by now. I think the big 'new' thing is that the party is moving to DL and the fireworks are exclusive. They may have a little cavalcade again, but I don't think it's a big event.
So I think the Halloween fireworks and candy are the main exclusive highlights to the party. I think the fireworks are a big deal to some people who saw them last year and really enjoyed them. It's just that last year they ran every night, all season long, and this year they will be party exclusives so they are more 'special,' I guess.
