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Halloween 2024 in Boston: Feasts, dance parties, drag shows, more
Events
Boston’s no Salem, but there’s plenty of feasting and partying to do this spooky season.
Boston may not go all out on Halloween like it’s hour-north witchy neighbor, Salem, but there’s plenty to do in town for those spooky season revelers out there — especially when it comes to feasts.
The range of events in and around Boston offers options to see a drag show, walk through a haunted house, or witness the cutest costume contest featuring pooch participants. But the one thing these events have in common is that there will be food and drink, in some capacity.
So get your costume together — and bring your appetite along — for these Halloween-themed food events.
Spooky season is here, and this first-time event promises a scary good time for more than a month this fall. The Wicked Haunt Fest debuts this year at Charlestown’s Hood Park, with three immersive haunted experiences that are described as “Hollywood caliber.” If being scared isn’t your thing, there will also be a beer garden, pumpkin painting, mock trick-or-treating, and plenty of food and drink vendors. 10 Stack St., Charlestown
This one’s for House Gryffindor, Ravenclaw, Hufflepuff, and fine, even Slytherin. The Cambridge restaurant Glass House is crafting cocktails around the world of Harry Potter and Hogwarts, with an adult version of Butter Beer, a Death Eater Negroni, and a Half Blood Prince (their take on a New York sour). 450 Kendall St., Cambridge
Descend into the depths of Shore Leave, which transforms into Scare Leave starting Oct. 1 through Nov. 3. Back for another year, the theme this year is “Haunted Dolls,” and the tropical bar is kicking events off with a goth-themed drag show. Their other big event is the Halloween Party on Oct. 31, complete with a DJ, costume contest, and more drag. Keep an eye out for drink specials on the bar’s Instagram page, and reservations are already available for dates 30 days in advance. 11 William E. Mullins Way, South End
Time Out Market’s drag bingo and brunch is back, with Big Atlas leading the Halloween-themed bingo on Saturday, Oct. 12. From 1 to 2:30 p.m., play along (and possibly win prizes), eat food, drink cocktails, and come for the free show. On Oct. 20, get any last-minute Halloween-themed goods from the “Spooky Market.” 401 Park Drive, Fenway-Kenmore
An animated pre-Halloween event returns to the Inman Square area on Saturday, Oct. 19. The fifth annual Camberville Zombie Pub Crawl unleashes a swarm of revelers in their most undead attire across eight bars: Look alive and meet fellow inspirited characters at Portico Brewing between 5 and 6:30 p.m. Then follow the living dead onto Remnant Brewing Satellite, across-the-street neighbors New Republik and An Sibin, the Turing Tavern, Trina’s Starlite Lounge and its adjacent sibling Parlor Sports, and finally, the Druid. This is a come-as-you-are, go-as-you-please event, and stops will be about 90 minutes each. There will be food specials at every bar except the Druid and drink specials from sponsors. Families are invited to attend the first bar of the crawl, but after that, the event becomes an adults-only outing. Meet at 101 South St., Somerville
Not every Halloween party needs to lean into the scary. Leave the fake blood at home and instead get your neon spandex on for when this downtown nightclub transforms into a 1980s dance floor. General admission is $33, or guests can splurge on a VIP table with up to 15 guests. 1 Center Plaza, Downtown Boston
A Halloween bar crawl in Fenway returns on Saturday, Oct. 26. The festivities include stops at Game On, Bleacher Bar, Bill’s Bar, Loretta’s Last Call, Alibi, and Lansdowne Pub. Tickets are $9.99 and include access to all participating bars, half-off drink specials, entertainment, and several opportunities to win prizes and leave with swag. Various locations
Does your dog have a great costume this year? Dress them up and bring them to Park-9, the area’s dog park bar, for a Haunted Halloween Party and Costume Contest. From 5 to 10 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 26, Everett’s indoor doggo play place becomes a decorated Haunted Dog Mansion (also Beetlejuice-themed) with cocktail specials, treats, spooky decor, and several categories to enter into the costume contest. 48 Waters Ave., Everett
No need to say his name three times. Beetlejuice will appear regardless at this year’s Liberty Hotel Halloween party. The jail-turned-hotel known for hosting over-the-top affairs is taking inspo from the movie of the year on Saturday, Oct. 26, with eerie Beetlejuice decor, a photo booth to capture your supernatural costumes, and live sets from DJ Joshua Carl and DJ Skoolyahd. Tickets start at $95 for access to the party in the lobby and ballroom, or you can get up to eight friends together to splurge on an all-inclusive VIP table on the catwalk ($1,500) or 10 friends in the lobby ($1,850). 215 Charles St., West End
Following a special edition of Drag Bingo earlier in the month, Time Out Market continues the festivities with a wickedly fun Halloween party on Saturday, Oct. 26. From 9 p.m. to midnight, a tarot card reader, a live DJ, and Time Out’s resident drag queen Big Atlas will entertain (with the possibility of a Sanderson Sisters appearance). There will also be food specials, an airbrush tattoo artist, and a costume contest with prizes. Oh, and entry is free. 401 Park Drive, Fenway-Kenmore
With dishes like blood sausage, black silkie chicken, and pigeon pie, Harvest’s All Hallow’s Eve dinner takes inspiration from The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. This eerie menu features the unexpected — including one mystery cocktail hour bite dubbed the “Withered Corpse Game” — from executive chef Nick Deutmeyer, with canapes, four courses, and cocktails. Reserve, if you dare, for Sunday dinner on Oct. 27. 44 Brattle St., Cambridge
Expect a vibe that’s “Paul Revere’s midnight ride meets the Sanderson Sisters” during this prix fixe menu and drag show at the Revere Hotel’s restaurant, Rebel’s Guild. The menu features pub fare, and during the drag performance, stay seated for bewitching performances and spellbinding costumes starting at 6:30 p.m. on Halloween evening. 200 Stuart St., Bay Village
The Halloween partying doesn’t stop on Oct. 31 because on Friday, Nov. 1, there’s Día de los Muertos to celebrate. Nautilus Pier 4 is hosting its annual Halloween party on the Day of the Dead this year and is encouraging revelers to come dressed for the theme. Besides festive decor and face painting, there will be dinner service, a first-come, first-serve bar with specialty cocktails, and a DJ. The event is not ticketed, but those seeking out dinner at the Seaport spot are urged to make reservations. 300 Pier 4 Boulevard, Seaport
Best Stationery, Gus & Ruby / Photo by Lindsay Hackney
Stationery
GUS & RUBY
At Gus & Ruby, stationery isn’t just paper—it’s personality, pressed and printed to perfection. Beloved for their inventive designs, hand-rendered illustrations, and luxurious letterpress, this New England favorite crafts suites that tell your story from the very first envelope. Founders and longtime friends Samantha Finigan and Whitney Swaffield lead their team to infuse every project with warmth, wit, and impeccable taste, making each invitation a true keepsake. gusandruby.com.
Photographer
CITYLUX STUDIOS
CityLux Studios captures weddings with the cinematic flair of a Vogue spread and the heart of a love story. Known for luminous tones, modern composition, and effortlessly emotive moments, this Boston-based team turns real life into high art. Married couple and founders Sarah and Peter blend editorial precision with genuine connection to create luminous imagery that feels as timeless as the love it celebrates. citylux.studio.
Videographer
STOPGOLOVE
Founded by filmmakers Jared Haskell and Jason McCutchen, StopGoLove turns real moments into modern, cinematic stories. Their style is clean, intentional, and emotionally honest—beautiful composition, smart pacing, and an instinct for the in-between beats that make a film feel alive. The result is wedding cinema with editorial polish and zero pretense: story first, style built in. stopgolove.com.
Floral Studio
ORLY KHON
Orly Khon doesn’t just arrange flowers; she composes living art. Known for her moody, romantic designs that balance wildness with refinement, Khon approaches each event like a painter at her canvas, blending texture, color, and movement into unforgettable floral moments. Whether it’s a delicate tablescape or a lush, architectural ceremony design, her work feels both timeless and a touch rebellious—much like the modern couples she designs for. orlykhon.com.
Best Catering, Max Ultimate Food / Photo by Person Killian Photography
Catering
MAX ULTIMATE FOOD
Turning culinary imagination into edible art, this Boston-based team delivers restaurant-level dining with the precision of a luxury event planner. Creative tasting menus, impeccable service, and presentation that’s anything but predictable make every celebration unforgettable. From passed hors d’oeuvres to late-night bites, every detail is, well, ultimate. maxultimatefood.com.
Best Cakes, Lizzie’s Bakery / Photo by Lushi Song
Cakes
LIZZIE’S BAKERY
Whimsical yet sophisticated, these confections are as delicious as they are striking—think handpainted details, sculptural sugar florals, and modern, clean-lined tiers. Behind the magic is Lizzie Johnson, a Food Network alum with a fine-art eye and a love of bold flavor, crafting designs that feel personal, polished, and picture perfect. Sweet beauty, inside and out. lizziesbakery.com.
Best Band, Hot Mess / Photo by Shannon Bialy Photography
Band
HOT MESS
No cookie-cutter wedding playlists here. This Boston-based band is known for turning every crowd into a dance-floor frenzy, thanks to powerhouse vocals, magnetic stage presence, and an uncanny ability to read the room. Whether it’s a soulful slow jam or a pop anthem that gets Grandma on her feet, they bring the perfect blend of polish and pure fun. Simply put: They don’t just play the party, they are the party. hotmessrocks.com.
DJ
C-ZONE ENTERTAINMENT
For couples who want a packed dance floor and a soundtrack that feels uniquely theirs, this Boston-based team delivers. With decades of experience, seamless mixing, and an intuitive sense for what the crowd craves, these DJs curate moments that move effortlessly from first dance to final encore. Sophisticated, high-energy, and always in tune with the couple’s style—this is music done right. czonemusic.com.
Photo Booth
ENTERTAINMENT SPECIALISTS
A photo booth should be as stylish as the celebration itself, and this team delivers just that. With sleek setups, creative backdrops, and instant share options, they turn snapshots into unforgettable keepsakes. Whether it’s a glam booth worthy of the red carpet or a playful setup packed with props, they make every moment memorable and a whole lot of fun. entertainmentspecialists.com.
Best Wedding Planner, Baciare Events / Photo by Constance Schiano
Wedding Planner
BACIARE EVENTS
Founders Ashley Saffer and Renée Sabo are masters of turning dream days into beautifully lived experiences. With a blend of creativity, calm precision, and genuine care, they craft weddings that feel effortless, elegant, and deeply personal. Whether it’s an intimate coastal gathering, a grand ballroom affair, or a celebration halfway across the world, their team ensures every detail is seamless. baciareevents.com.
Event Designer
TYGER EVENT DESIGN & PRODUCTION
Founded by principal Ty Kuppig, this design and production studio brings a couture sensibility to every celebration. With an architect’s eye and a storyteller’s instinct, Kuppig transforms venues into cinematic settings layered with texture, light, and mood. From sculptural floral moments to bold, modern palettes, each event feels elevated, expressive, and entirely one of a kind. tygerproductions.com.
Hairstylist
MONIKA RAMIZI, SALON MARIO RUSSO
Known for her “try-anything” attitude and calming presence, Monika Ramizi approaches bridal beauty with both artistry and ease. Whether it’s soft, romantic waves, a sleek modern updo, or something entirely unexpected, she tailors each look to the bride’s personality and vision. The result is hair that feels fresh, confident, and camera-ready from the first look to the final dance. mariorusso.com.
Makeup Artist
BEAUTY BY NELSE
For Nelse Karini, makeup is more than artistry; it’s empowerment. A self-taught talent with a passion for helping women look and feel their best, she’s known for her luminous, skin-first approach and ability to create a flawless finish that still feels like you. Brides love her mix of precision and personality—equal parts perfectionist and hype woman—and the confidence that comes with her chair-side magic. beautybynelse.com.
Bridal Boutique
L’ÉLITE BRIDAL
A destination for the fashion-forward bride, this Newbury Street institution curates an elite roster of global designers—from Oscar de la Renta and Monique Lhuillier to Berta and Ines Di Santo. With more than three decades of experience, the boutique’s expert stylists and in-house tailoring team deliver a couture-level experience that feels as personal as it is polished. Every gown is chosen for its artistry, craftsmanship, and that unforgettable moment when a bride sees herself and knows: This is the one. lelite.com.
Best Wedding Dress Designer, Candice Wu Couture / Photo by Reinhardt Kenneth
Wedding Dress Designer
CANDICE WU COUTURE
With a couture sensibility and a flair for the unexpected, Candice Wu redefines modern bridal style. Her gowns balance romance and edge, featuring exquisite craftsmanship, sculptural silhouettes, and intricate detailing that make every look unforgettable. Whether ethereal and whimsical or sleek and daring, each design embodies her signature blend of elegance, confidence, and artistry. candicewucouture.com.
Best Engagement Rings, Boston Diamond Company / Photo courtesy of Boston Diamond Company
Engagement Rings
BOSTON DIAMOND COMPANY
Discerning brides and grooms turn to this Newbury Street jeweler for more than sparkle—they come for expertise. Owner Stephanie Binder and her team of certified gemologists offer a refreshingly educated approach to fine jewelry, guiding clients through every facet of diamond selection with honesty, precision, and an impeccable eye for design. Whether sourcing an exceptional natural stone or creating something from the boutique’s Pure Luxe Lab collection of lab-grown diamonds, each piece reflects the brand’s unwavering commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Because true luxury isn’t loud; it’s brilliantly, quietly flawless. bostondiamond.com.
Wedding Bands
LONG’S JEWELERS
For more than a century, Long’s Jewelers has been synonymous with craftsmanship, integrity, and enduring style. This fifthgeneration, family-owned jeweler bridges heritage and modernity with a collection of wedding bands that balance artistry and intention. Each piece is designed to feel as effortless as it is enduring—refined in form, rich in meaning, and unmistakably elevated. A modern icon of lasting love and impeccable taste. longsjewelers.com.
Rentals
DEZ COLLECTIVE
At Dez Collective, design lives in the details. This Boston-based studio curates a thoughtful collection of furniture, tabletop, and décor that elevates weddings from stylish to unforgettable. With a deeply honed instinct for atmosphere, the team creates layered environments that feel intentional, artful, and entirely now: the kind of spaces that photograph as beautifully as they feel. dezcollective.com.
Urban Venue
BOSTON PUBLIC LIBRARY
A landmark of art and architecture, the Boston Public Library offers one of the city’s most breathtaking backdrops for a wedding. Beneath vaulted ceilings and along marble corridors, history and grandeur converge in a way that feels both timeless and distinctly Boston. Partnering exclusively with the Catered Affair, the venue hosts some of the city’s most luxurious celebrations, yet it’s also possible to exchange vows here in a one-hour ceremony that costs little more than a library card. Either way, the setting is unforgettable. bpl.org.
Historic Venue
THE GREAT HOUSE AT THE CRANE ESTATE
High above the Ipswich coast, the Great House at the Crane Estate feels like stepping into another era. Designed in 1928 by architect David Adler for industrialist Richard T. Crane Jr., the 59-room Stuart-style mansion crowns a 165-acre National Historic Landmark surrounded by salt marshes, barrier beaches, and sweeping ocean views. The property’s showstopper, the Grand Allée, a 2,060-foot lawn that stretches from the mansion to the water’s edge, offers a photo backdrop worthy of royalty. craneestateevents.com.
Best Coastal Venue, Wychmere Beach Club / Photo by Alex Paul
Coastal Venue
WYCHMERE BEACH CLUB
If it’s possible to have glamour on the beach, this is where it lives. In Harwich, Wychmere Beach Club merges Cape Cod’s oceanfront ease with a distinctly polished edge. Expansive water views, clean architectural lines, and light-filled spaces create a setting that feels both elevated and elemental: seaside sophistication, perfected. wychmerebeachclub.com.
Rustic Venue
THE BARN AT GIBBET HILL
If “rustic” makes you think of mason jars, think again. The Barn at Gibbet Hill redefines the genre with its soaring post-and-beam architecture, polished wood interiors, and panoramic views of rolling pastureland. Set on a working farm in Groton, the venue blends country character with refined hospitality: think firefly evenings, farm-to-table menus, and sunsets that wash the hills in gold. barnatgibbethill.com.
Best Ballroom Venue, Fairmont Copley Plaza / Courtesy photo
Ballroom Venue
FAIRMONT COPLEY PLAZA
In the heart of the Back Bay, the Fairmont Copley Plaza is Boston’s grande dame—all gilded ceilings, marble columns, and chandeliers that seem to glow from another century. A Beaux Arts masterpiece with unmistakable presence, it brings drama to the classic ballroom wedding. Yet behind the opulence is a pulse of modern sophistication: flawless service, effortless style, and a setting that never goes out of fashion. fairmont-copley-plaza.com.
Getting married? Start and end your wedding planning journey with Boston Weddings’ guide to the best wedding vendors in the city.
The good news for Marco Sturm and the Bruins is that the team could get defenseman Henri Jokiharju back in action Tuesday night in Seattle.
But the potential return of Jokiharju, who has been out of Boston’s lineup since sustaining an injury back on Nov. 28, does not give Sturm a healthy blue line. Instead, the Bruins are apparently dealing with yet another injury ahead of Jokiharju’s return to action, this time with Hampus Lindholm back on the shelf with an injury.
And one that certainly sounds concerning based on what Sturm said.
“It’s not going to be a day-to-day thing,” Sturm, whose team is on a three-game point streak, said following Monday’s practice when asked about Lindholm’s injury status. “Hopefully it’s not too long, but he’s definitely going to be out for a little bit. We’ll have to do more testing when we’re back in Boston so we can go from there.”
Sturm added that Lindholm has “been hurt,” though it’s unclear if he meant that Lindholm has been hurt in the last contest if he’s been playing hurt for the last little bit here. Lindholm did finish Saturday’s game without issue (at least one that was visible), and finished with an assist and logged a pair of overtime shifts in a 22:47 night.
Lindholm is also less than a week removed from what was one of his best games of the season, with a goal and an assist in Boston’s 6-2 win over the Oilers last Wednesday.
Lindholm has not traveled back to Boston ahead of schedule, though that admittedly means very little with just one more game on deck for the B’s on this road trip.
“We just had our first appointment [Sunday] and we’re going to wait until we get back because there’s nothing we can do right now,” Sturm said when discussing Lindholm’s injury. “And then we’ll let our doctors decide our next steps.”
Lindholm, who has three goals and 14 points through 34 games this year, has already missed eight games due to a lower-body injury earlier this season.
Sturm noted that Jokiharju looked “pretty good,” which is a positive development when it comes to his potential availability for Tuesday against the Kraken. If Jokiharju is unable to go, Vladislav Kolyachonok would slide back into the Boston lineup.
The Bruins come into Tuesday’s head-to-head with the Kraken with five of a possible eight points on this road trip banked away, but are a woeful 2-6-0 with Lindholm on the shelf this season.
Police are investigating a deadly shooting that occurred overnight in Boston’s Mattapan neighborhood.
Boston police said they responded to a report of a person shot in the area of 24 Stow Road in Mattapan around 12:12 a.m. on Monday.
When they arrived, officers found a vehicle parked in front of 24 Stow Road with a man inside suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Boston EMS transported the man to a local hospital, where he later died.
No arrests have been announced.
The shooting remains under investigation, and anyone with information is being asked to call homicide detectives at 617-343-4470. Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling 1-800-494-TIPS, texting the word “TIP” to 27463 or online.
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