Halloween is a fun holiday, but not everyone likes to be scared. So KSM found our favorite five ways to enjoy local events and get in the spirit of the season this Halloween, approved especially for those who can’t handle haunted forests or ghosts, goblins, and ghouls. Scared-y cats (and dogs!), you’re welcome!
Get Artsy
Ballston’s ART WHINO is introducing a new group art show, ALL HALLOWS, that features local, national, and international artists creating works on the traditions of the “darker half” of the year. This spirited exhibit — and art sale — launches with a complimentary reception on Thursday, October 21 from 7-11 pm, featuring many of the creatives in attendance, though it continues through November 10, 2021.
Get Beasty
Hillwood invites area pups to trick-or-treat at its October Yappy Hour with a costume competition for all furry friends on Saturday, October 23rd from 3-5 pm. ($13)
The Fairmont Washington, DC is also holding its 10th annual Howl-o-Ween, a veritable pooch party and costume parade for humans and their four-legged friends in the West End hotel’s new courtyard bar on Thursday, October 28th from 6 – 7:30 pm. KSM will be in attendance to judge the costume contest, which will recognize winners with coveted awards like overnight stays, dinners, and other spectacularly (non)spooky prizes. (Free)
Get Foodie
Fall menus at local restaurants and watering holes abound, so be sure to check out any of your local favorites for spirits and spirited menus. One we especially like is TTT Clarendon’s Tequila Sunrise Halloween party on Saturday, October 30th, and Bloody Mary Brunch on Sunday, October 31st. These foodie fests have scrumptiousness — but also drink specials, eerie decor, costume contests, and DJ entertainment. ($30 pp in advance)
Get Showy
Cult-favorite, The Rocky Horror Picture Show lands in town at the Entertainment & Sports Arena on Halloween night, October 31st, this year for a special limited-engagement tour, hosted by the original cast of ‘Brad Majors’ Barry Bostwick. The screening of the original unedited movie will include a live shadow cast and, of course, full audience participation. Costumes are encouraged for the extra special costume contest during the event. ($25-45)
Synetic Theatre also has plans for a “killer” night starting with a performance of its spooktacular show, The Madness of Poe followed by an indoor/outdoor dance party with all the food, drinks, tricks, and treats that a ghoul could ask for. The Vampire Ball also boasts aerialists and full-sized candy bars. ($95-125)
Get Sporty
If it’s more your style to treat than trick, the seasonal charity event to experience is Mandarin Oriental’s Tenth Annual FANtastic 5K and Silent Auction which benefits Serve Your City / Ward 6 Mutual Aid. On Saturday, October 30, lace up your running shoes and support advancing Southwest DC youth education and development efforts. ($35)
Happy Halloween!
