Gracias Madre is selling a cocktail party kit for Angelenos to bring home and enjoy on Halloween and Day of the Dead. Each kit comes with a signature can of Purista Margarita for two, a mini bottle of Bruxo Mezcal, plus house-made salsa, fresh guacamole and skull chocolates made by executive chef Mario Alberto. For those who decide to dine on Gracias Madre’s beautiful patio on Halloween, come in costume and see the Dia de los Muertos altar. Have your photos taken in the Halloween photo booth and enter your photo and contact information into a drawing. A winner will be chosen on Nov. 1. The winning costume will receive a $100 Gracias Madre gift card. Order for pickup or delivery by calling the restaurant or go to their website . 8905 Melrose Ave., (323)978-2170.
2. Vampire Pizza– On Halloween weekend, Oct. 30-31, enjoy an immersive pizza party with food, a story and game for two people for $32.99 per person. There is also a party of four for $27.99 per person. Hours are Friday at 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. For those outside the delivery zone, pick up your party kit at Ghost Pizza Kitchen. Reserve your package online. 7751 1/2 Melrose Ave.
3. Idle Hour Brunch and Movie Night – Enjoy weekend brunch on Idle Hour’s iconic al fresco patio from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The barrel-shaped structure is part of the Programmatic architecture movement from the 1920s and 1930s, when business owners designed their buildings to catch the attention of quick-passing motorists. On Oct. 31, they will be showing back-to-back Halloween-themed movies starting at 5 p.m. The lineup includes “Hocus Pocus,” “Psycho” and “Halloween.” There will be spooky-themed drinks and endless popcorn. Seating is limited due to capacity protocol and reservations are highly recommended via Resy. 4824 Vineland Ave., (818)980-5604.
4. Chado Halloween tea special – This month Chado Tea Rooms are offering a Halloween-inspired afternoon tea. The menu features a glass of Halloween-inspired iced tea, a choice of pumpkin soup or pumpkin spice salad, and a two-tiered rack of four Halloween-inspired pumpkin, bat and ghost finger-sized sandwiches on one level and scones with cream and jam, as well as macaroons and butter cookies on the second tier. This special also includes one pot of pumpkin spice chai tea for $28 per person. It’s available at the tea room for dining onsite or to-go at the four Chado sites. 6801 Hollywood Blvd., (323)472-8111; 369 E. First St., (213)258-2531; 1303 El Prado Ave., (424)757-5222; and 79 N. Raymond Ave., (626)431-2832.
5. Cafe Gratitude DIY cookie kits – Order your ready-to-decorate, health-based, flavor-driven, spooky-themed cookie kits for Halloween. Each $25 kit includes pre-baked cookies and icing made with organic, superfood ingredients. Go online or call to order your kit to pick up. 300 S. Santa Fe Ave., (213)929-5580; 639 N. Larchmont Blvd., (323)580-6383; and 512 Rose Ave., (424)231-8000.
6. Nueva encourages costumes– Celebrate Dia de los Muertos in costume at Nueva during brunch, lunch and dinner on Saturday, Oct. 31. Starting at 10:30 a.m., enjoy a special menu of pumpkin tacos with pumpkin-seed salsa and flaming margaritas, mezcal mummies, tequila vampires or zombie cocktails. 822 Washington Blvd., (310)747-6050.
7. Halloween at The Mermaid – Make a reservation to the Mermaid’s “Fangtastic Feast & Libations” Halloween Party on Oct. 31. There are two seatings, a costume contest and lively tunes played by DJ Danny. This Eventbrite-ticketed event will also have a costume contest and the winner’s bill for the evening, up to $150, will be taken care of by the Mermaid. Enjoy a safe and fun outdoor space to have some drinks, food and dress in costume. Reservations are available for parties two for $96 or for four people for $189, with tax and tip included. Enjoy a 90-minute prix fixe special featuring themed drinks and food. There is an option to purchase additional tricks and treats. First seating is from 9:30 p.m. to 11 p.m., and the second seating is from 11:30 p.m. to 1 a.m. 428 E. Second St., (213)947-3347.
8. Enjoy a staycation at Sofitel Los Angeles at BH – The director of nightlife and mixology expert Aidan Demarest has created a “Spooktacular” cocktail for guests, The Jack-o’-Lantern Potion. It’s the perfect balance of citrus, bitter and sweet flavors. Guests staying at the hotel will receive a Jack-o’-Lantern Potion cocktail kit for two, complete with everything you need to make your own hauntingly sweet cocktail in your room. 8555 Beverly Blvd., (310)278-5444.
9. Uplifters Kitchen – Since Halloween might look a little different this year, anyone who comes into Uplifters Kitchen on Halloween in a costume and mask will receive a bag of treats. Bags may include Halloween stickers, Yum Earth organic lollipops, almond butter chocolate cups and organic candy corn. Breakfast and lunch items are also available to enjoy from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. 2819 Ocean Park Blvd., (424)268-4904.
10. Halloween Rooftop fun – E.P & L.P. and the new Tulum-inspired pop-up Las Palmas will both host socially distanced Halloween and Day of the Dead weekenders. Costumes are encouraged for guests to wear while entering a spooky, Halloween-themed space offering affordable, individual small plates and elevated bar bites from $8 to $15. Start with a Bloody Spritz made with blood orange juice, prosecco, Aperol and bitters. Walk-in availability for parties up to six people are available from noon to 2 a.m. Enjoy a Day of the Dead brunch starting at noon on Saturday, Oct. 31, and Sunday, Nov. 1, for Yucatan-inspired menu options. Items available include a lobster quesadilla and breakfast tacos, alongside a specialty Michelada in collaboration with Calidad Beer. There will be plenty of Instagram moments, from larger-than-life Calaveras to an orange backlit photo booth. Brunch reservations are required for parties of four or six people starting at noon. Call to reserve a socially distanced table on the rooftop. 603 N. La Cienega Blvd., (310)855-9955.
Experiential Supply presents Haunt’oween LA, a family-friendly drive-thru experience open nightly in Woodland Hills at The Promenade Mall parking lot.
Highlights include driving through a pumpkin tunnel of lights and a tunnel of shadows. The Jack-O-Lantern Tunnel is a 90-foot installation featuring more than 1,000 pumpkins.
Live music performing nightly.
Scenic Paths decorated to drive by and enjoy traditional Halloween decor along a mini-maze route, to see skeletons at play, giant pumpkins, headless horsemen, and numerous spider webs.
Each car receives one good size pumpkin from the “Life is Gourd” themed patch. Additional pumpkins are available for purchase.
“Door to Door” Trick or Treating – drive down two streets with live costumed actors coming out of their “homes” with enough candy for everyone.
Bring the family in costume, for a new Bricktacular fun with treats a LEGOLAND California in Carlsbad.
While the theme park is still awaiting approval to open, it has opened its outdoor Miniland every Friday, Saturday and Sunday during October (Oct. 2-4, 9-11, 16-18, 23-25, 30 & 31). Reservations are required with a purchased ticket for Fridays from 3 to 7 p.m., Saturday from 10am-2pm or 3pm-7pm, and Sunday on 11am-3pm.
The Park’s Miniland U.S.A isn’t too spooky for little one’s to enjoy Halloween activities, tasty treats such as savory food options at Smoke House BBQ and NINJA Kitchen and satisfy sweet Granny’s Apple Fries.
Halloween in Miniland features character meet and greets, virtual costume contests, a Miniland scavenger hunt, LEGO building activities, and, of course, a goody bag filled with candy and a LEGO surprise!
Stroll through The Big Shop to find the latest must-have LEGO sets.
LEGOLAND® Hotel and LEGOLAND® Castle Hotel will also join in on the Halloween fun with festive décor throughout the fall season! Guests visiting SEA LIFE® aquarium will be treated to special Halloween decorations and LEGO models that will be on display underwater in the aquarium’s tanks.
Purchase a ticket to Halloween in Miniland online for tickets starting at $12.99. Guests are required to purchase tickets online in advance to reserve access to Miniland for their desired dates and time to visit.
As guests and employees’ health and safety remain the top priority at LEGOLAND California Resort, guests will experience some differences in Miniland including reduced capacity, cashless payments, social distancing practices and enhanced cleaning regimes. Face coverings (PPE) are required for all guests three years old and up as well as for staff members.
For more safety information, and to purchase tickets to Halloween at Miniland or SEA LIFE aquarium, visit www.legoland.com/california.
Enjoy a Trick or Treat latte atKlatch Coffee’s. On Halloween Day, come into one of the four locations in full costume and you will receive a FREE Trick or Treat Latte. Visit a Klatch Coffee in Redondo Beach, San Dimas, Rancho Cucamonga, Ontario. The latte is available beginning on Friday, Oct. 26 and FREE on Oct. 31.
Spooktacular cocktails at OUE Skyspace LA – On Friday, Oct. 26 guests are welcome to sip on these spooktacular cocktails at OUE Skyspace LA’s City Lights Halloween Party. It’s held in partnership with Bender and DEEP and DJ Marques Wyatt, folks are welcome to dress in costumes. Evening yoga begins at 8 p.m. and lets out to a two-floor dance hall + visual art experience in this “pop-way-up” event at 10 p.m. There will be a tarot reading, dancing, immersive art lounges, and free rides on the scream-inducing Skyslide suspended 1,000 feet in the sky. This party is for 21 + guests. Tickets are available at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/skyspace-city-lights-halloween-ft-miguel-migs-marques-wyatt-tickets-50651734702. 633 W. 5th St. on the 70th floor of the iconic U.S. Bank Tower. 633 W. 5th St. (213)894-9000.
(photo credit: Szuszanik Hovakimyan)
Pre-Halloween bar crawl – On both Friday, Oct. 26 and Saturday, Oct. 27, Brack Shop Tavern is offering some spooky deals from 7 p.m. to closing. All guests participating in the bar crawl will be greeted with a free welcome kamikaze shot. Other drink specials include $8 cocktails starting with a hibiscus pineapple vodka, and bourbon Old Fashion. A shot of Evan Williams bourbon and pint of Budweiser is $9 and Goose Island is $5 for guests participating in the bar crawl. October 26 & 27. 525 W. 7th St. (213)232-8657.
Halloween costume party at STK in the W Los Angeles – Costumes are mandatory for guests staying at the hotel wanting to enjoy a spooky good time on Oct. 27 from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Stay overnight for food, drink and music at this hip Westwood location. 930 Hilgard Ave. (310)659-3535.
Unholy Masquerade Ball – On Saturday, Oct. 27 Brennan’s pub is hosting a fun evening with BOO-zy & Witches brew, a spooky photo booth for guests to capture the evening’s haunted happenings, and $10 costume contest at midnight. Winner will receive a $500 cash prize. This pre-Halloween day party begins at 9 p.m. to closing. On Sunday, Oct. 28 Brennan’s and Forte Animal Rescue is having a Howl-o-ween event from 7 to 9 p.m. 4089 Lincoln Blvd. (424)443-5119.
Underworld Carnival at E.P. & L.P. – For one night only on Saturday, Oct. 27, West Hollywood’s E.P. & L.P. celebrates Halloween by transforming the 5,500 square-foot L.P. Rooftop into an “Underworld Carnival.” Make a reservation for dinner at E.P. to set the mood for a spirited evening. Up at L.P. Rooftop the festivities include a premium hosted open bar, passed appetizers, special music and appearance by DJ’s Aaron Colbert & Audimoe from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. Arrive dressed in a Halloween costumes for a ghoulish fun evening. Table and bottle service is also available for purchase at an additional fee. Tickets are required for entry at $65 for early bird and $75 general at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/underworld-carnival-at-ep-lp-tickets-50183383852. 603 N. La Cienega Blvd. (310)855-9955.
The Theatre at Ace Hotel Fanged Fete – Come dressed in your best vampire attire for the annual Halloween party with DJs, drinks, and dark arts on Saturday, Oct. 27. Dweller-of-the-night are welcome to join others inside the epic haunted cathedral featuring Restless Nites DJs and devilish potions starting at 10 p.m. to closing. Tickets are $35 at the door and guests must be 21 years and older. Tickets can be ordered online at a discount at https://www.axs.com/events/356074/the-fanged-fete-tickets. 929 S. Broadway (213)235-9614.
The Hollywood Crawl of Fame – Enjoy a red, white, and green Halloween on both Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 27 and Oct. 28 at MiniBar Hollywood starting at 4 p.m. The GM and bartender Jeremy Allen is leading a bar crawl starting at MiniBar, and progressing to Ever Bar, Sunset & Vinyl, Lost Property, and a few other Hollywood spots. Event sponsors Peroni and Yola Mezcal encourage participants to dress in red, white and green (the colors of the Italian and Mexican flags) in lieu of a traditional Halloween costume. Tickets are $25 and cover a roll out mystery potion, tax and tip at MiniBar. Bring cash for subsequent drinks, snacks and bartender tips. A portion of the $25 ticket will be donated to legal services non-profit organization Al Otro Lado. Tickets are available at http://www.minibarhollywood.com/the-hollywood-crawl-of-fame-iii/. For one night only on Wednesday, Oct. 31, the MiniBar team will be performing their version of the legendary 1986 Chicago Bears’ Super Bowl Shuffle. This free of charge Halloween event with special drinks begins at 8 p.m. 6141 Franklin Ave. (323)798-4939.
Fat Sal’s becomes a Hollywood movie set – Once again Fat Sal’s is transform into “McDowell’s” from the 1988 Box office hit “Coming to America” starting Oct. 28. The McDowell’s theme will be part of the interior and exterior of the restaurant. To celebrate they will feature culinary items with names that include “The Big Mick”, “The Sexual Chocolate Shake” and “The Zamunda Fries.” Fat Sal’s is also creating the MY-T-Sharp barbershop from Coming To America right next door to Fat Sal’s Hollywood. Customers can walk in and sit in the barber chairs. This specials continue through Halloween. 1300 N. Highland Ave. (855)682-4373.
The 7th Annual San Pedro Dia de los Muertos festival – On Sunday, Oct. 28 Los Angelenos will unite to celebrate Hispanic culture with a festive live entertainment lineup. Two-time Grammy award winning performers include Mariachi Divas, and celebrated Kotolan and Salt Petal. This year’s festivities include a Jose Cuervo Tradicional bar and tequila garden. This bar area offers a variety of cocktails created with Tradicional tequila – the first 100% agave tequila created over 200 years ago by Jose Antonio de Cuervo. In addition to cocktails, Jose Cuervo Tradicional will honor its past with a large scale ofrenda display for guests to view alongside the festival’s famed altar competition. Guests can sample freshly prepared regional Mexican menudo from Juanita’s Mexican Foods, Mexican soft drinks Jarritos, and savory offerings from Del Real Mexican Food. There are a variety of authentic food stands and trucks. Children are invited to enjoy face painting and children’s activities in the Kid’s Zone while adults can purchase authentic crafts, handmade jewelry, clothing and other specialty items made by regional artisans. Admission is free. Get your tickets at http://sanpedrodayofthedead.com. 398 W. 6th St.
Shakespeare at The Skyline at The Everly Hotel – Come see Shakespeare’s iconic tale of murder with a performance of Macbeth on Oct. 28 and Oct. 29 featuring an all-female cast. There are two sinfully good specialty cocktails available called Out Damned Spot, an homage to Lady Macbeth, made with apple-infused Grey Goose, Calvados, apple bitters, red caramel, and Foul is Fair made with Grey Goose, St. George gin, Lillet, sherry, thyme, lemon, muddled celery, squid ink, and a splash of Prosecco. Tickets are available on https://www.eventbrite.com/e/macbeth-tickets-48720717979?aff=ebdssbdestsearch. 1800 Argyle Ave. (213)279-3532.
Trick or Treat at theOriginal Farmers MarketOn Wednesday, Oct. 31 put on your costumes and bring your children trick-or-treating through The Original Farmers Market to pick up chocolates and candy galore. All of the vendors are getting in the spirit making special culinary treats to enjoy immediately and bring home. Order a scoop of pumpkin ice cream at Bennett’s & Local Ice, or treat yourself to a pumpkin or Halloween themed donut at Bob’s. Over at Littlejohns they are selling pumpkin and spooky themed treats. Before going home, stop by the iconic Du-par’s for a autumn pumpkin pie. 6333 W. 3rd St. (323)933-9211.
Cookie Good helps others – Ross Canter opened Cookie Good on Wilshire Blvd. He and his wife Melanie use the best ingredients starting with chocolate from Callebaut & Van Leer, Nielsen-Massey Madagascar Bourbon pure vanilla, and AA sweet creamery butter. Halloween goodies include Count Chocula and Monster Mash cookies and the Great Pumpkin cheesecake brownie. They also make gluten-free options for those with dietary restrictions. Canter’s grandfather helped open Canter’s Deli in Boyle Heights. On Sundays, Ross Canter used to spend time helping his grandfather working at the bakery counter. Cookie Good has gone pink in October in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. They will donate a portion of all sales to Breast Cancer Care & Research Fund. 2448 Wilshire Blvd. (424)280-4100. Cookie Good Review
Same Same Halloween special – Celebrate the last day of October at Silver Lake’s beloved Thai restaurant with a complimentary order of Peek Gai Tod (fried chicken wings) when you come in for dinner dressed in costume. This special is available only on Wednesday, Oct. 31 starting at 5 p.m. 2835 Sunset Blvd. (213)273-8424. My review Same Same
Halloween at Chao Krung – Chao Krung offers its very own Thai Halloween celebration serving Thai beer slushies and pumpkin egg custard. They are filled with pumpkin, coconut sugar, coconut milk, eggs, and sea salt. It’s available for a limited time only. Come in between 11:30 a.m. to 10:15 p.m. Here’s my review – Chao Krung. 111 N. Fairfax Ave. (323)939-8361.
Boo-chata and Death Row Donuts at Trejo’s – Now through Halloween Trejo’s Coffee and Donuts features whimsical delicious spooky fun themed donuts. The Franken-Sanchez is an Old fashion chocolate donut with Frankenstein decorations. The Calabaza cinnamon roll has cream cheese frosting and cinnamon crumb. For those who like horchata, the Boo-chata is made with Horchata pastry cream filled with Horchata glaze on top and a ghost face decoration. The Death Row raised donut is neon colored with neon colored sugar skulls. Pumpkin fans will enjoy the Maple Old Fashion pumpkin donut with maple glaze and cinnamon crumb.Try the Black Velvet chocolate cake donut with cream cheese frosting and candy eyes. 6785 Santa Monica Blvd. (323)462-4600.
Little Dom’s Halloween cookies – Serve really spooky cookies made by head pastry chef Ann Kirk at your Halloween office or home party. These treats will appeal to both kids and adults on Halloween. Kirk’s classic cardamom sugar cookies are decorated with ghosts and tombstones, as well as scary phrases like “The Wifi is out” and “Let’s go to Ikea!” 2128 Hillhurst Ave.(323)661-0055.
Winston Pies’ spooky slices – Baker Brianna Abrams bakes handcrafted delicious and authentic artisan pies featuring only the best seasonal, all-natural ingredients. She is making full-sized pies, miniature pies, hand pies, and her signature PieBites. Stop by the newly opened West Hollywood shop for a slice of Scary Cherry, Key Slime, Pumpkin Patch and Creepy Cowgirl. 8366 W. Third St. (323)925-4743.
New Ice Cream flavors at Humphry Slocombe – Celebrating Humphry Slocombe’s 10 year anniversary, the ice creamery is bringing back popular flavors each month. In October enjoy a scoop of foie gras ice cream with tangy Amarena cherry compote. The newest collaboration with iconic LA chefs, Jon + Vinny is strawberry marinara ice cream made with fresh whole-leaf basil steeped in Humphry Slocombe’s signature cream syrup. It’s a clean bright basil pop of flavor blended with homemade strawberry puree and fresh lemon zest. 1653 #B Abbot Kinney Blvd. (424)387-8161.
Autumn flavors and Halloween fun at The Indpendence – Chef Damoriae Graham creates new menu items that include squash and apple soup with brown butter croutons and pumpkin seeds. A new protein entree included Duroc pork rib chop served with Delicata squash, apple, Tuscan kale, pepitas, sage, and port wine. A tasty side dish is Delicata squash, sage butter and brown sugar. The autumn dessert is fig and proscuitto toast layered with ricotta, arugula and a balsamic drizzle. 205 Broadway (310)458-2500.
Otoño’s “Dia De Las Brujas” Halloween Happy Hour – On October 31 from 10 p.m. to closing. Costumes are highly encouraged!Drink and food specials will start at $5 and include Porron – a Spanish wine pitcher where individuals can pour the contents into the mouth without touching it to their lips; the further away they can pour, the higher the skill. Las Brujas “The Witches” Rum Punch, Horchata Flip, Black Tempura Squid and Jamon Hamburgesas. 5715 N. Figueroa St. Los Angeles, CA 90042 (323)474-6624. https://www.otonorestaurant.com/.
Brandon’s Kickoff Weekend at 6th & La Brea Swinging Sixties Halloween Party
On Friday, October 26 & Saturday, Oct. 27 come in from 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. Come join others at a reservation only soiree. Dress up in 1960’s style attire and celebrate the unveiling of Brandon’s at 6th & La Brea. Vinyl tunes, lo-tech vibes, and drinks will flow in the luxe dark and moody back bar. Order from a simple menu of house-brewed beers and one-off cocktails. Enjoy complimentary tray passed bar bites plus a polaroid photobooth. Costumes are highly encouraged! Space is limited. Please RSVP at info@6thlabrea.com – reservations are first come, first served. 6th & La Brea Now Serving Lunch and Happy Hour – contemporary brewery & restaurant has officially launched lunch. Enjoy vegan and non-vegan favorites like the KFC Sandwich with crispy chicken cutlet, sweet chili glaze, pickles and slaw, the Bahn Mi, available vegan/non-vegan with either pork belly or tofu, pickled daikon and carrot, pickles, herbs and fermented hot sauce; or, guests can opt for a selection of rice bowls, with options like Seared Salmon, Braised Short Rib, and Marinated Tofu. For those that can’t stop by for lunch, join us for happy hour daily from 3pm-6:30pm to take advantage of $6, $5 wine & cocktails, and $4 select beers.
Celebrate Halloween in Westwood at Broxton –Artisanal Brewers Collective, sunny new brewery & public house is now open in the historic Janss Dome Building. In honor of Halloween coming up, Broxton is throwing down with a spooky Wicked Witch of Westwood cocktail, and for anyone that shows up in a costume – score a free bucket of biscuits. Available only on Halloween. at 1099 Westwood Blvd., Los Angeles, CA.
Border Grill Day of the Dead Menu – Now through Nov. 6 Executive chefs Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger are honoring culinarians who have passed away, with four special cocktails in their remembrance. Cocktail tributes include Anthony Bourdain/El Mexicano made with aperol, El Silencio Mezcal, agave, and soda. Robin Leach/El Royale is made with Chambord, champagne, and topped with pomegranate seeds. Jonathan Gold/MariGOLD margarita is made with Viva Reposado Tequila, Araceli Marigold liqueur, combier, fresh lime juice and agave. tajin, and garnished with micro marigold. The Joel Robuchon/Robuchon 75 is mixed with Tres Gen Silver, lime juice, and champagne. Enjoy one of these with Border Grill Day of the Dead dishes that include ceviche Negro made with shrimp, scallops, squid ink, jicama, chipotle, and citrus marinade; blood sausage tacos with pineapple-jicama salsa and queso fresca; and Pan De Muerto & Café De Olla with crème fraiche and hibiscus sauce. 445 S. Figueroa St. (213)486-5171.
Pretty in Pink at Tocaya Organica – Now until Oct. 31 enjoy a prickly pear margarita while raising awareness and funds for Breast Cancer Awareness. All proceeds from the cocktail will donated to Breast Cancer Research Foundation. The drink is available at the Tocaya Hollywood, Venice, West Hollywood, Santa Monica, Playa Vista, El Segundo and Century City. 8720 W. Sunset Blvd.(424)288-4871, 507 Wilshire Blvd. (424)268-8219, 12150 Millennium Drive #101(424)289-6105, 10250 Santa Monica Blvd. #2300 (424)255-6956 and 850 S. Sepulveda Blvd. (424)352-0876.
This Halloween roundup was featured in the October 25 issue of the Beverly Press
Every visit to Disneyland is memorable, however during Halloween Time, it’s extra special. The spell is cast and the magic of Happy Hauntings is now at both Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure. Be on the look out for Disney characters including Goofy, Cruella de Vil, Daisy, Mickey and Minnie Mouse cloaked in frightfully delightful Halloween-themed attire.
What’s new this year is security. Check points are now in the parking tram plaza next to the parking garage to provide a comfortable, safe and enjoyable experience for all guests. Disney security inspect backpacks and purses before guests walk through a metal detector. Leave your selfie-sticks at home. They are prohibited in the Theme Parks.
Another new sight are two large cranes building Disney’s Star Wars theme park inside Disneyland.
Entering Disneyland first, Main Street U.S.A spot the giant Mickey jack-o’-lantern and pumpkin festival for your first photo opportunity. Both theme parks are decorated with cheery autumn décor, Disney characters in their costumes, seasonal Halloween overlays on select attractions, seasonal treats and more. Halloween Time officially begins in mid-September and continues through October 31. If you’re looking to beat crowds, weekdays are a great time to experience Halloween Time with yellow and orange banners hanging from the eves and lamp posts. Thousands of lovely pumpkin decorations are displayed in windows.
The park also offers delicious Halloween Time treats. Here’s 10 of my favorites:
Have your inner Snow White come out while sipping from a Poison Apple Stein. It’s spooky cute and can be filled with a beverage and fruit.
2. Head over to New Orleans Square they are selling Mint Juleps with Dreamsicle Beignets. Order a three or six pack of piping hot beignets sprinkled in sugar. You can also purchase a Halloween Time Travel Mug to fill with your choice of beverage.
3. Nearby is Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas at the Haunted Mansion, helping guests believe Halloween truly last forever. There are 999 ethereal inhabitants that have taken over the abandoned residence in the center of New Orleans Square since August 9, 1969. Get an Oogie Boogie light green creepy, skin-crawl-y beverage holder until October 31.
4. Sip a Dole Whip Float or spoon in some of the pineapple soft serve sold at the Enchanted Tiki Room. While there go inside to see robotic birds and flowers sing and swoon for 15 minutes in a kitschy ’60s show.
After exploring Disneyland, head over to Disney California Adventure Park with your Park Hopper pass and walk under the bombastic boogeyman as he casts a shadowy eye on passersby from atop his ominous, main-gate marquee. Along Buena Vista Street, swarms of black bats are hanging around the Carthay Circle Theatre’s bell tower.
Across the way is the Headless Horseman statue.
5. Visit the Elysian Arcade inside California Adventure for a spooky fun Disney character inspired cake pop, dipped apple, crispy treat or cupcake.
Cars Land Radiator Springs turns into Radiator Screams? Take your photo at the Happy Haul-o-ween billboard before cruising down Route 66 to Fillmore’s yard filled with ghostly folk art and decorated oil cans with spooky faces and distributor cap spiders.
6. Head over to the Cozy Cone Motel food window inside a gigantic parking cone to purchase a Spoke-Y Cone Macaron filled with marshmallow buttercream and candy corn. It’s orange with a spooky face and yellow, orange and white candy corns peeking out.
7. At the Churro window, they offer pumpkin spice churros. Each food window also sells Traffic Cone Sippers to hold your favorite fountain beverage. They come in a 16 oz. and 32 oz. bright orange plastic cone sipper with a straw.
8. Popcorn has been elevated with a Halloween Time Junkyard JamBOOree mix. Guests have a choice of ordering Butter popcorn; Buffalo Ranch, Garlic, Parmesan, Sriracha, Pizza, Dill Pickle or White Cheddar. Then they can choose a selection of add-ons that include green M & M’s, Candy Corn, Chocolate covered pretzels, Boston Baked Beans and Ghost Quins (sprinkles). Speaking of popcorn, annual Passholders (AP) benefits during the the month of September include receiving unlimited popcorn bucket refills until October 31, 2017 if they obtain an AP refillable popcorn bucket between 9/1 to 9/30.
9. Walk into Ghirardelli in the Pacific Wharf area and received a complimentary Ghirardelli chocolate square made with milk chocolate pumpkin spice caramel. It’s delicious.
10. At Paradise Pier Ice Cream Company they are offering Orange and Vanilla Swirl Soft Serve in regular and large sizes. Even though the Mickey Mouse pretzel is not decorated for Halloween, it’s a fun treat while exploring Hollywood Land or before seeing the new musical Frozen-Live at the Hyperion.
Mickey’s Halloween Party. Each year it normally begins the last weekend in September, with a select number of nights designated. This is a separate ticketed event that includes nighttime admission to Disneyland Park with access to the rides, exclusive entertainment and trick-or-treating. If you have a Park Hopper, you can head over to Disney California Adventure Park which has longer hours on party nights.
Once Halloween Time is over, get ready to enjoy the magic of Christmastime at Disneyland and California Adventure. Historically, the official holiday season begins in mid-November and continues through the first week in January of the next year. Take a family photo next to the enormous Christmas trees, revel in the holiday decorations, do some holiday shopping, listen to the festive holiday entertainment and indulge in some of the seasonal treats.
Halloween is my favorite time to dress up in a whimsical costume and join friends at a fun restaurant and pub-crawl to people watch, sip some frothy brew, and nibble on spooky treats. Here are my favorite spots in So Cal in 2016 –
Pre-Halloween Beer Tasting Event- Paper or Plastik Café is hosting The Craft of Beer on Sunday, Oct. 30 at 6 p.m. The café offers some of their finest hand-selected California beers from their in-house beer and wine curator, Mikey Mikell. Sitting is limited and tickets can be purchased for $15 at the door. Imbibers receive a selection of 10 two oz. pours of various California craft beers and 10% off dinner in the café afterwards.5772 W. Pico Blvd.
Hyperion Public’s Halloween – The Ouija boards are coming out and spirits will invade Hyperion Public in Silver Lake and Studio City on Monday, Oct. 31 at 9 p.m. The adults-only event begins with chilling tunes by DJs and a “Headstone Happy Hour” all night with $6 drink specials. Try the Necronomicon, Not Dead Just Old Fashioned or Rabid Moscow Mule. Tecate and PBR are $3, and Bud Light and Corona are $4. Sip house wines and well cocktails while sinking your fangs into spiced nuts, marinated olives, fries and grilled cheese sandwiches for $6 or less. Heartier fare includes crispy shrimp tacos, Hyperion buffalo wings, spicy blueberry wings, sliders and Asian steak lettuce cups. Wear a costume for a chance to win Hyperion Public gift cards. The fun continues until 2 a.m. 2538 Hyperion Ave., (323)761-6440; 12969 Ventura Blvd., (818)464-3750.
Santa Monica Zombie Crawl – On Saturday, Oct. 29, makeup artists will help participants transform into authentic-looking zombies at the Santa Monica pier before the Santa Monica zombie crawl. Pre-order a wristband for $12 or buy one at the door at Rusty’s Surf Ranch for $15. Participating zombies will walk through the city beginning at 6 p.m. and enjoy spooky food and drink specials at the Santa Monica pier, along Ocean Avenue, at the Third Street Promenade and along Fourth Street. Rusty’s Surf Ranch, Big Dean’s Oceanfront Cafe, Del Frisco’s Grille, Ye Olde King’s Head, Cabo Cantina, Barney’s Beanery and West 4th/Jane will offer food and drink specials. An official zombie after party is at 1212 Santa Monica on the Third Street Promenade. 256 Santa Monica Pier. http://www.zombiecrawlsm2016.eventbrite.com.
Halloween Skybar at the Mondrian LA – Enter a special “Labyrinth Ball” on Saturday, Oct. 29 at Skybar at the Mondrian LA with music by Diallo & Audiomoe. On Sunday, Oct. 30, the Skybar hosts a special performance by the David Bowie cover band, The Band Who Fell To Earth. The Skybar will be transformed with lace, pearls and dripping wax candelabras. Get lost in a playground of masked fairies and goblins while dancing the night away. On Halloween, Monday, Oct. 31, enjoy an exclusive screening of “Labyrinth” at 7:30 p.m. followed by a DJ set from 9 p.m. to closing. 8440 Sunset Blvd., (323)848-6025.
A Night of 100 ‘Pee-Wees’ at MiniBar – Minibar is holding a Halloween party on Monday, Oct. 31, and everyone must come dressed as Pee-Wee Herman. The fun starts with happy hour at 5 p.m. followed by the party at 8 p.m. Themed drinks include The Large Marge, The Big Adventure, The Au Revoir Simone and more. Tickets are $10 and can be reserved by emailing minibarhollywood@gmail.com. 6141 Franklin Ave., (323)798-4939.
Join a Fun ‘Crawloween’ – The Downtown Los Angeles-based ACME Hospitality Group is holding a walking pub crawl to four different venues on Monday, Oct. 31 from 7 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. Each establishment is a cover-free epicenter of paranormal activity with spiked cocktails, $5 punch and wicked themes. Sixth Street Tavern features a “Witches” gathering, while Beelman’s Pub will hold a 1990s “Smells Like Teen Spirit” event. Party through the rabbit hole at Library Bar’s “Alice in Wonderland” soiree, and chop it up with the walking dead at Spring St. Bar’s “Day of the Dead” uprising. Each bar is offering a signature sinister cocktail for $7 all Halloween weekend through Monday, Oct. 31. 600 S. Spring St., (213)622-1022; 630 W. Sixth St., Ste. 116-A, (213)614-0053; 630 W. Sixth St., (213)614-1900; 626 S. Spring St., Ste. B, (213)622-5859.
Westside’s largest Halloween party – WOK-ing Dead at Wokcano Santa Monica returns Friday, Oct. 28 at 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. It’s one of the largest parties with a costume contests, food and drink specials from 8 to 10 p.m., and zombie dance-off. Advance tickets are $20 for general, and $30 for VIP front of line access at http://wokcanohalloweensm2016.eventbrite.com. 1415 5th St. (310)458-3080.
Spooktacular Halloween Gathering – Michael’s On Naples features a rooftop Halloween costume party on Monday, Oct. 31 from 7 to 10 p.m. Enjoy a chef’s buffet, welcome glass of Veuve Cliquot Champagne, and a ladle of Belvedere Poltergeist punch, a spirited drink created by mixologist Christian Justice, plus dancing and a DJ for $50 per person. Guests must be 21 and older and dressed in a costume. 5620 E. Second St. (562)439-7080.
Fun Movie and Food Event – To celebrate the 10th anniversary of the twisted fairytale film “Pans Labyrinth,” Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas Westlake Village and Cinépolis Pico Rivera have partnered with SquaredCo events to present guests with a spirited moviegoing experience to celebrate on Oct. 20 at 7 p.m. Guests receive film-themed Snapchat filters; exclusive food and drink specials; film themed trivia and a chance to win prizes. The first 75 guests at each location will receive a spooky Pans Labyrinth mask. Tickets for the film screening are $22 for adults and $20 for seniors. 180 Promenade Way, Westlake Village and 8540 Whittier Blvd. Pico Rivera. http://www.cinepolisusa.com.
Stranger Things Weekend at E.P. & L.P. – Starting Friday, Oct. 28 at 5 p.m., West Hollywood’s modern Asian dining destination takes Halloween to new heights atop the expansive 5,500-square foot L.P. Rooftop. To set the mood for a spirited weekend, wear a Halloween costume or come as you are to participate in the festivities that include an E.P. Ouija board, flickering lights surrounding the rooftop, and 80’s synth driven classics from a ghetto blaster DJ booth. All weekend, the bar will be serving three, limited-run 80’s inspired neon Upside-Down cocktails created by Beverage Director Adam Nystrom. Sip a Winona Wallbanger made with vodka, Galliano, blood orange, clove, and cinnamon. The Hawkins is made with Indiana iced tea house spirit blend, citrus, soda, vanilla and boba. The third cocktail is the Upside Down house rum blend made with Citron Sauvage, passion fruit and pineapple. The event wraps up on Oct. 31. 603 N. La Cienega Blvd. (310)855-9955.
The Chapel at the Abbey – David Cooley, owner of The Abbey Food & Bar, West Hollywood’s most iconic gay bar, opens The Chapel at The Abbey for Halloween weekend. It’s a completely separate venue from The Abbey, yet flows together with a cohesive aesthetic. The Chapel’s church theme offers dark stained wood throughout, stained glass windows, gothic lighting features, religious-and medieval-themed statues, and a DJ booth inspired by a pulpit. Purchase a daily or weekend wristband on the website http://www.theabbeyweho.com/home. 692 N. Robertson Blvd. (310)289-8410.
Halloween Bash at the Shade Hotel – Manhattan Beach will transform to a hair-raising Halloween hotspot on Saturday, Oct. 29. The hotel is decorate with Halloween decorations, and features a DJ, handcrafted cocktails, and a costume contest starting at 8 p.m. Guests who come dressed in their best sinister styles might win a gift certificate to Zinc@Shade, the hotel’s craft kitchen and modern lounge. Bottle service is available for guests. 1221 N. Valley Drive. (310)546-4995.
With Disneyland Resort’s Diamond Celebration the Halloween season runs through Nov. 1, 2015 with festive Fall decorations throughout the park, plus spooky transformations of Haunted Mansion and Space Mountain. Stay late to see the parades, fireworks or buy a ticket to trick-or-treat.
Here are 10 must see and do experiences during October at Disneyland:
Main Street Disneyland has been transformed with more than 300 pumpkins and a 16-foot-tall Mickey Jack-o’-lantern.
Ride the Haunted Mansion in New Orleans Square to experience a collision between Halloween and Christmas with Jack Skellington from the Walt Disney Pictures classic “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas.” See the recently rejoined Hatbox Ghost.
(Photo by Jill Weinlein)
Ride Space Mountain’s Ghost Galaxy in Tomorrowland. Space Mountain vehicles speed into a ghostly galaxy among eerie screams, sound effects and music. Spooky spirits pop out of the darkness, appearing to reach out and scare space travelers.
Dia de los Muertos in Frontierland is a traditional Mexican celebration with a skeleton display near Rancho del Zocalo restaurant.
(Photo courtesy of Disneyland Resort)
Attend the “Paint the Night” parade – A river of color down Main Street, U.S.A., with spectacular special effects, floats, energetic performances and toe-tapping music.
Some of the Halloween treats sold around the park include Mickey Mouse cookies, candy corn colored cotton candy and flavored popcorn.
(Photo by Jill Weinlein)
Buy a separate-ticket to attend Mickey’s Halloween Party. Come in costume and trick-or-treat throughout Disneyland Park on selected nights. Enjoy the exclusive “Monsters U Dance Party” at the Tomorrowland Terrace. Tickets for Mickey’s Halloween Party* may be purchased online and on mobile devices at Disneyland.com/party, as well as at the Disneyland Resort main gate and by phone at 714-781-4400. Guests may check online for availability for the following nights: Wednesday, Oct. 7; Friday, Oct. 9; Monday, Oct. 12: Wednesday, Oct. 14; Friday, Oct. 16; Monday, Oct. 19; Thursday, Oct. 22; Friday, Oct. 23; Sunday, Oct. 25; Tuesday, Oct. 27; and Thursday, Oct. 29. Online and mobile purchases are not available the day of the event. ickets purchased on the day of the event are $77 each. All tickets to Mickey’s Halloween Party on Thursday, Oct. 29, are $84 each.
Be sure to notice the sparkling enhancements on Sleeping Beauty Castle in Disneyland and take an interactive tour of Sleeping Beauty’s story.
(Photo courtesy of Disneyland Resort)
In Disney California Adventure, stay after dark for the Diamond Celebration water show that comes alive in “World of Color – Celebrate! The Wonderful World of Walt Disney.” It’s filled with film, lasers, music and special effects honoring the man who created Disneyland and so many beloved characters.
Mingle with the ghosts in The Twilight Zone™ Tower of Terror and dance the night away in the after-dark Diamond Mad T Party.
Entering Disneyland first, Main Street U.S.A spot the giant Mickey jack-o’-lantern and pumpkin festival for your first photo opportunity. Both theme parks are decorated with cheery autumn décor, Disney characters in their costumes, seasonal Halloween overlays on select attractions, seasonal treats and more. Halloween Time officially begins in mid-September and continues through October 31. If you’re looking to beat crowds, weekdays are a great time to experience Halloween Time with yellow and orange banners hanging from the eves and lamp posts. Thousands of lovely pumpkin decorations are displayed in windows.
After exploring Disneyland, head over to Disney California Adventure Park with your Park Hopper pass and walk under the bombastic boogeyman as he casts a shadowy eye on passersby from atop his ominous, main-gate marquee. Along Buena Vista Street, swarms of black bats are hanging around the Carthay Circle Theatre’s bell tower.
Across the way is the Headless Horseman statue.
Dine, Travel & Entertainment 