“Haunted Blues”-Memphis Minnie (1936)

Known as “The Queen of the Country Blues,” Memphis Minnie’s expansive catalogue is saturated with tunes about voodoo, ghosts, murder, and other macabre subjects. Given this wealth of options, it was a bit tough to hone in on just one tune, but her 1936 classic “Haunted Blues” about the struggles of living with the ghost of a departed lover is hard to deny.

“I’m Gonna Murder My Baby”-Pat Hare (1954)

While not a household name, Pat Hare was one of the meanest and raunchiest guitarists of his generation, laying down absolutely nasty proto-metal riffs on several tracks for Sun Records. Although he largely acted as a sideman, his 1954 solo effort “I’m Gonna Murder My Baby” showcases his power as a singer as well, and is haunting in both its subject matter and delivery. To make things even more unsettling, Hare would go on to be arrested for actually murdering his wife a few decades later.

“Tarantula” by the Tarantulas (1961)

Not a ton is known about the band responsible for this creepy little slice of instrumental surf rock other than they were originally called the Spiders, but the band apparently like it enough to name it after themselves! Recorded at Memphis’ Fernwood Records–a tiny home studio once ran by Ronald “Slim” Wallace and Jack Clement. Despite the group’s anonymity, this is a timeless track that will have party goers asking you “whose this?!?”

“Li’l Red Riding Hood”-Sam the Sham & the Pharaohs (1966)

Best known for their smash novelty hit “Wooly Bully” about a monster with “two big horns and a wooly jaw,” Sam the Sham & the Pharaohs has several other silly and spooky tunes that fit the season perfectly. Our personal favorite is “Li’l Red Riding Hood,” a retelling of the classic fairy tale told from the perspective of the Big Bad Wolf. In the years since its release, everyone from Bowling for Soup to The Smashing Pumpkins have covered the holiday favorite.

“Trick or Treat”-Otis Redding (1966)

Although it was recorded by the “King of Soul” in 1966, Otis Redding’s Halloween-themed “Trick or Treat” wasn’t released until 1992, a full 25 years after the legendary singer’s death. The song–which was written by the powerhouse Stax duo of Isaac Hayes and David Porter–finds Otis doing what he did best: pleading to his lover to treat him right. “I can’t wait ’til Halloween to find out if it’s trick or treat,” he sings.

“Insane Asylum”- Koko Taylor & Willie Dixon (1968)

If we wanted to (and believe us, we were tempted), this entire playlist could have been solely dedicated to the women of Memphis blues, who had an uncanny knack for channeling the darker side of life. Memphian Koko Taylor certainly delivers the goods on this track from her solo debut, which features fellow blues great Willie Dixon. The duet speaks about having a loved one institutionalized in an insane asylum, and the pain is visceral.

“Frankenstein’s Walk”-Gene “Bowlegs” Miller (1969)

During his long and illustrious career,Memphis trumpeter Gene “Bowlegs” Miller worked alongside some of the greatest talents this city has ever produced, including Aretha Franklin, B.B. King, Al Green, and Isaac Hayes. Needless to say, his 1969 novelty track “Frankenstein’s Walk” probably doesn’t rank among his finest musical moments, but sometimes you just have to let loose and have some fun. The song features Miller as Frankenstein’s monster, who understandably isn’t the most skilled dancer. Unsurprisingly, the song comes with its own unique dance moves, making it a necessity for any Halloween dance party.

“Haunter of the Darkness”-Zuider Zee (1975)

If I were to ask you which 1970s Memphis power pop band unfairly floundered in obscurity despite coming out with undeniably excellent music, you’d probably respond with “Big Star,” which is certainly true. But Zuider Zee also fits the bill perfectly, as is evident from their darkly infectious track “Haunter of the Darkness.” If you don’t know now you know.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Zcy4g2e4yc&feature=emb_imp_woyt

“Monster”-The Bar-Kays (1978)

Driven by tight basslines, sharp horns, and eerie synthesizer flourishes, the track blends the band’s classic Memphis funk sound with a spooky, cinematic edge. Without a single lyric, “Monster” conjures its mood entirely through rhythm and atmosphere, making it a standout Halloween anthem for funk lovers. At nearly 7 minutes long, it’s guaranteed to get feet moving and the party started.

“I Was a Teenage Werewolf”-the Cramps (1980)

Although they hailed from California, the seminal psychobilly punks the Cramps recorded their iconic debut album Songs the Lord Taught Us at Memphis’ Phillips Recording with Big Star’s Alex Chilton serving as producer. While you could easily just push play on the album and let it serve as your Halloween soundtrack, if you could only choose one track, we’d go with “I Was a Teenage Werewolf,” one of the group’s best-known and most-loved tracks.

“Warlords”-Medieval Steel (1984)

Memphis metal heroes Medieval Steel unleashed pure epic energy with their 1984 track “Warlords,” one of the many stand-out singles from their cult classic debut. With galloping riffs, soaring vocals, and battle-ready lyrics, the song channels fantasy warfare and dark power—perfectly suited for a Halloween soundtrack.

“She’s My Witch”-Tav Falco & Panther Burns (1987)

Much like their contemporaries The Cramps, Tav Falco & Panther Burns excelled in creating a creepy throwback sound that hearkened back to 1950s rockabilly with a dash or two of punk and goth thrown in for good measure. The group’s 1987 track “She’s My Witch” is an excellent example of their signature sound and a perfect tune to play for the special witch in your life.

“Potato Heads from Hell”- Wally Ford (1994)

Like a classic B movie rendered in song form, Wally Ford’s “Potato Heads from Hell” tells the story of an unfortunate man who is attacked by an army of blood-thirsty spuds from the underworld. Believe me, it only gets weirder (and more delightful) from there. I discovered the song several years ago from Mr. Ford himself, who played it to me while we sat next to each other at a bar. Needless to say, I haven’t been able to shake it ever since.

“Experiment in Terror/Stalkin’”-Impala (1994)

Yet another instrumental banger? You’re damn right! Memphis surf-rockers Impala put their own spin on “Experiment in Terror/Stalkin’,” blending Henry Mancini’s 1962 film theme with Duane Eddy’s 1958 twangy instrumental. The result is a shadowy, reverb-soaked medley that fuses noir suspense with rock ’n’ roll swagger.

Graveyard Productions – “Horror Stang” (1995)

Memphis underground outfit Graveyard Productions conjure pure terror with their 1994 track “Horror Stang.” A brief but unforgettable sound collage, it mixes eerie synths, distorted bass, and snippets of horror-movie dialogue into a chilling, lo-fi atmosphere. Emerging from the city’s early horrorcore rap scene, the track feels like a nightmare transmitted straight from a haunted cassette deck.

“Covered with Flies”-The Grifters (1996)

The title of this one alone would probably make it Halloween soundtrack worthy, but its the jagged guitars, chaotic arrangement, and restless mood that really sells it. Throughout the song, Memphis indie rockers the Grifters channel unease and exhaustion into something hypnotic and raw. It’s not a horror song in theme, but its atmosphere feels haunted all the same.

“Anyone Out There?”-Three 6 Mafia (1997)

No Halloween mixtape is complete without a track or two from the kings of horrorcore and this 1997 track finds the group at their bone-chilling best. Featuring a sample from the horror film “Man’s Best Friend,” the song serves as a solo track for Three 6 member Lord Infamous who weaves a horrifying narrative worthy of Edgar Allan Poe. “A family slaughtered by a loved one, forgive scarecrow/I turned against God and everything that I cared for most/Police arrived, candle light, butcher knives, bloody bedposts…” he raps, and that’s just the opening bars.

“Breathing Machine”-Lost Sound (2002)

Lost Sounds–the influential  dark wave group featuring Jay Reatard and Alicja Trout–were experts at fusing punk aggression with eerie electronic textures, which were oftentimes complimented with apocalyptic lyricism. “Breathing Machine,” a menacing yet groovy track about the Book of Revelation, is a fan favorite and a great introduction to those first arriving at the group.

“Disco Werewolf”-Clay Otis & the Dream Sheiks (2013)

Prior to his untimely passing, Clay Otis (nee Clay Hardee) released some of the most adventurous and captivating music to come out of Memphis in years. Amongst his best tracks is 2013’s “Disco Werewolf,” an absolute banger that sounds like the sequel to “Thriller” we never got. The song, released on Halloween night of 2013, features some of Memphis’ finest current musicians and promises to be a local Halloween favorite for years to come.

“Mala Luna”-Los Psychosis (2021)

Very much in the tradition of the aforementioned band the Cramps, Los Psychosis is a psychobilly band steeped in primordial rock ‘n’ roll. However, the group’s Latinx heritage gives their sound a unique flavor that sets them apart from the pack. Their excellent debut album Rock and Roll Dreams is filled with worthy candidates for this list, but we’re rolling with “Mama Luna,” a Spanish-language banger whose menace is easy to pick up on no matter what language you speak.

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Grave Rave at Meddlesome Brewing Co.

(Saturday, Oct. 26 at 8PM)

We’re guilty of oftentimes ignoring events happening outside of the city limits, but every once in a while, the ‘burbs grab our attention. Such is the case with Cordova-based Meddlesome Brewing’s upcoming Grave Rave, a DJ-filled evening of costumes, drink specials, and of course, plenty of dancing.

Halloween Bash ft. Supreme La Rock at Eight & Sand

(Saturday, Oct. 26 at 9PM)

There are few places better in Memphis to people-watch than Eight & Sand, the swanky vinyl lounge located in Central Station. This promises to be doubly true during this year’s costume party, which will feature a live set from the legendary Seattle DJ Supreme La Rock. With a vast myriad of musical tastes and a distinct style, Supreme La Rock is an internationally renown DJ who will have the party rocking late into the evening.

Daikaiju at Growlers

(Wednesday, Oct. 30 at 9PM)

As you probably know, the night before Halloween is commonly referred to as “Devil’s Night,” an informal holiday on which people regularly engage in jokes, pranks, vandalism, or parties. We mention this because there is probably no better band to celebrate this debaucherous occasion with than Daikaiju, the masked surf-rock heathens known for their absolutely unhinged live performances that regularly include smashed instruments, fire, and much much more.

TONE’s Terror at the Tower Party at Orange Mound Tower

(Thursday, Oct. 31 at 9PM)

TONE, the Orange Mound-based Black arts organization known for their huge annual Juneteenth event, has also started to get into the Halloween game with their ongoing Black October event. This year, they’ll be returning to Orange Mound Tower for a night of costumes, drinks, DJ’s, and more! Trust us when we say that nobody in town is throwing down quite like the good folks at TONE.

Bailey Bigger at the Green Room

(Thursday, Oct. 31 at 7:30PM)

If you’re looking for something a bit more low-key for Halloween, or perhaps something evocative of Stevie Nicks-esque witchery, then Bailey Bigger’s upcoming album release show on Halloween night likely fits the bill. The Americana artist will be returning home for a special show celebrating the release of her new album Resurrection Fern. If the lead-off single “Witches and Warlocks” is any indication, this should be a memorable evening of haunting music from one of the city’s finest singer-songwriters.

Halloween Party w/ Louise Page, Joybomb,

Dr. Ew, Alicja Trout at Bar DKDC 

(Thursday, Oct. 31 at 9PM)

If rock n’ roll is indeed dead as many pundits have claimed, then its reanimated corpse will be making an appearance on Halloween night at Bar DKDC (along with a bit of pop, for good measure). A who’s-who of Memphis rock’s finest will be waking the spirits all night long in Midtown’s most fun (and coziest) venue. Costumes are, of course, highly encouraged.

Rock-n-Romp’s Halloween Spooktacular at Mud Island

(Saturday, Nov. 2 at 1PM)

Rock-n-Romp is back with a Halloween-themed family friendly concert at Mud Island, right outside of the Baron Von Opperbean lounge, the new immersive-experience being built inside the former site of Mud Island’s river museum. Music will be provided by Hope Clayburn’s Soul Scrimmage and a host of DJs. Great live music AND a sneak peek of the BOV lounge? Count us in.

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All Hallows Grieve at Hi Tone
October 14

Sure, zombies, werewolves, and vampires are always good for a scare, but what’s more horrifying than facing one’s own feelings and emotions? Hi Tone’s recurring emo night is back with a special Halloween edition of the popular dance party, so dust off your skinny jeans, straighten those bangs, and head down for a night of fright and tears.

Ghoultown at Growlers
October 26

What would happen if you somehow had the ability to take a classic horror film and somehow transform it into a band? Texas band Ghoultown seems as close to an answer as we’re likely to get, expertly channeling films like From Dusk till Dawn and Curse of the Undead into an exhilarating live show. With a devilish mix of punk twang, horror rock, and spaghetti-western flair, Ghoultown is the perfect band for a hellacious good time.

Halloween Masquerade Ball at Black Lodge
October 28

Like a Spirit Halloween with liquor and live music, Black Lodge is truly your one-stop-shop for everything Halloween related. The video rental store/venue has always had a fondness for the macabre, but that seems to be ramped up even more this October with a slate of enticing events. Although we encourage you to check out their full list of events– especially the back-to-back Vampire and Witches Masquerade Ball on Friday, Oct. 20th followed the next evening by a Zombie Prom– the main event is the annual Masquerade Ball. Featuring a who’s who of Memphis rockers, this is likely to be the biggest party of the night.

Tone Presents “Black October”
October 28th

Tone, the city’s premiere Black Arts organization (or at the very least, its coolest) is back with another highly-anticipated Halloween event, this year at the Orange Mound Tower. This year’s theme is Vampires in Memphis, so dress accordingly and be ready to dance late into the evening. Oh, and based on last year, the costumes promise to be fierce, so bring your A-game!

Dia de los Muertos Celebration at Memphis Music Room
October 28

Dia de Muertos–the joyous Mexican holiday based on remembering and celebrating friends and family members who have died–has slowly integrated itself into American culture. In fact, there are a handful of Dia de Muertos events happening throughout Memphis this month, but the one we’re most excited for is the Don Ramon Band at the Memphis Music Room. Ramon is one of the city’s premiere Spanish-language acts and he is all but guaranteed to keep things rockin’ into the early morning.

Stevie Nicks at FedEx Forum

October 28

As Fleetwood Mac’s iconic singer Stevie Nicks has made clear many times over the years, she is not actually a witch or a practitioner of the dark arts, yet her mystical and fantastical personae continues to inspire would-be witches and warlocks worldwide. Aside from perhaps Ozzy Osbourne or Alice Cooper, it’s hard to think of a more appropriate classic rock icon to have in town during Halloween weekend. Nicks, of course, is a must-see event regardless of the season, but it’s hard to deny that a late October concert is particularly enticing.

**For even more Halloween-themed events and much more, check out our live music calendar here!**

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Christmas may be the most wonderful time of the year for many red-blooded Americans, but, for the rest of us, it’s Halloween that has us shivering in otherworldly joy. As the weather cools and the leaves tumble down, as skies go gray and the rich smell of burning fields begins to curl through our streets, we know that everything spectral and witchy will soon be upon us. So while you’re throwing together your creepiest costume and stocking up on candy corn, consider hitting up one of several fine musical events gracing Memphis venues around the spookiest day of the year.

ZARR Halloween w/ Jack Oblivion, Static Static, Off Peak Arson
10 p.m., Saturday October 30, B-SIDE Memphis
$10 at the door

It’s time for the annual ZARR Halloween celebration, and this year’s festivities offer up a bumper crop of frenetic sonic fury. Headliner Jack Oblivian is a local garage-punk legend who shows no signs of hitting the brakes on his careening musical momentum anytime soon, and his slyly anthemic hooks and ramshackle splendor are truly wondrous to behold in person. Joining this stacked bill are fellow Memphians Off Peak Arson and touring NOLA post-punkers Static Static. With their shout-along vocals and kinetic unpredictability, the thrilling Off Peak Arson calls to mind a scuzzier, sleazier White Lung (this is definitely a compliment). And somewhat of an outlier (but no less welcome for it), Static Static bring snarling, noise-damaged synth pop to the table. Come on over to B-SIDE, and don’t forget your costume for the contest, as well!

School Of Rock Halloween
2 p.m., Saturday October 30, Lafayette’s Music Room
Free

If you fancy an afternoon outing of the musical persuasion Saturday, you might want to look into Lafayette’s, where The Memphis School Of Rock is hosting what’s sure to be a stellar Samhain shindig. With the School’s hard-working house house band performing, you’ll surely be be captivated by the heights of youthful skill on display. Their exceedingly-talented instructors will also perform, and yes, there’s a costume policy in effect with said costumes ‘strongly encouraged’. Why not dress up a little and be outrageous for your Halloween midday? After all, the event page claims there’ll be prizes and SoR swag for the winners. Watching brilliant young players grow into their craft in real-time is blessing enough, but the early start and finish time leave more than

space for ensuing one’s grown-up evening plans. These performances will stay with you for days.

Tommy Wright III, Gangsta Boo, Lukah, Lavendear, Terminal Nation
9 p.m., Saturday October 30, Black Lodge
$25 TICKETS

Call it Mischief Night, Devil’s Night, or (as I heard growing up in New England) Cabbage Night, the fact remains that October 30th is all about decadent trickery and dark, secretive pleasures. Presented by Bad Timing, Black Lodge celebrates Devil’s Night 2021 with an all-star trio that features two Memphis hip-hop/horrorcore pioneers, and preceded earlier in the evening by the ragged-glory, post-hardcore speed run of Lavendear and the soul-erasing death metal/hardcore juggernaut of Little Rock’s Terminal Nation. When else would underground Memphis rap monoliths like our headliners materialize than on All Hallows Eve? Tommy Wright III is a towering influence and a walking history of underground Memphis hip-hop, while Gangsta Boo stomped down barriers as the first female member of Three 6 Mafia. Skilled South African upstart Lurah is on-hand to represent where hip-hop might go next, while also symbolically nodding to where its been. All these atmospheric, eerie beats and this vivid, intricate wordplay are ideal chasers to a night that sets sail with the unholy terror and rage of Terminal Nation, with Lavendear providing game an essential mid-bill come down before the rampaging main event.. Don’t miss this one.

Mudhole, Burn The Witch, Cult Of The Flag, Defy
7 p.m., Saturday October 30, Growler’s
$10 TICKETS

Every Halloween show season needs a metal show, right? That’s just good horse sense. And thankfully, there’s one metal show to rule them all this Saturday at Growler’s, kicking the holiday off nicely with the southern-fried Memphis groove metal of Mudhole. Fellow Memphians Cult Of The Flag offer their own requisite, brutal boneshaking, and possibly some larynx shredding, while the third Memphis band on the bill, Defy, fold in haunting, spectral sound pieces and field recordings to collage a genuine unease coursing beneath their doomy thunderheads, all tension and dread-soaked tumult. Last but definitely not least, Burn The Witch (from, you guessed it, Memphis) aim mightily for sludge-metal gold, all feral catharsis and riff-oozing guitars. Four awesome local bands for just ten bucks? Yes, please. And once again, there’s a costume party being held for this gathering as well, so do prepare accordingly!

You might also be interested in Memphis Music: Famous Memphis Musicians & Memphis Singers

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Beginning in the early 1990s, Memphis has been at the epicenter of a subgenre now commonly known as “horrorcore,” a downright terrifying brand of hip-hop that is marked by its lo-fi sound, wickedly profane lyrics, triple time flows, and samples pulled directly from horror movie scores. From that crop of early horrorcore pioneers, few were as masterful and influential as Tommy Wright III and Gangsta Boo, both of whom will be performing on Saturday night at Black Lodge’s “Devil Night” alongside rising rap star Lukah, death metal band Terminal Nation, and raucous rockers Lavendear.

“The Trap Godfather” Tommy Wright III took some time out to speak with us about Saturday’s show, the enduring legacy of Memphis horrorcore, and what he’s got planned next.

“First off, let me introduce myself to folks who may not know me. I’ve been called a major contributor to crunk music, an innovator of trap music, and a pioneer of the Memphis sound. I’m somebody that did a whole lot with nothing, and eventually took it from the streets of Memphis to all over the world. Along with a lot of other people, I helped to create a sound that is really influencing some of the most popular music going today. People may not know this, but a lot of the big artists today are reaching out to us O.G.s and asking us to contribute verses, production, or samples. It’s crazy.

I’ll be honest…I still kinda feel like I’m on this pandemic vacation, but I’m looking at this Halloween show coming up at Black Lodge like a bootcamp to help me get back in the swing of things. The last show I played was in February of 2020 in Baltimore. It really looked like that was going to be an action packed year for me- I had plans to tour with Post Malone, there was a show booked in Barcelona, and then boom. You know the rest.

That said, I’m looking forward to getting things going again starting with Saturday night. I see this show as a continuation of a Halloween tradition that me and the guys at Black Lodge started a couple of years ago when I played one of their first shows at the new location on Halloween night. The difference between then and this year is that we’ve added some more fire power by bringing in another Memphis legend in Gangsta Boo. We’ll also be rocking with one of the hottest new lyricists on the scene, Big Lukah, along with a couple of hot new bands in Terminal Nation and Lavendear. I really think this could kick off something special that we can run back every year.

This will actually be Tommy and Gangsta Boo part two. We got paired up for a Pabst Blue Ribbon party in Atlanta several years ago, which was huge. It gave us a chance to really connect, because before that we had really only kicked it once or twice. Our histories obviously overlap a lot and I think we both were pioneers in the Memphis rap game, so I can’t wait to rock with her again. I think we make a good combination and we’ve discussed touring and working together more after this show, so fingers crossed.

In terms of what’s next, I just made a booking for L.A. for a project with Adidas. Adidas is basically about to start a new campaign focused on the Memphis influence we’ve been talking about. They’ve got gangster walkers, DJ Spanish Fly, and several others on board. I think that shows how heavy that influence still is. Our sound just stands the test of time.”

“Bad Timing Presents: Devil’s Night at Black Lodge” kicks off at 8 PM on Saturday October 30th.

You may also be interested in: David Parks: Five Questions With David Parks

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From family-friendly fun to more adult-oriented activities, this October has something for everyone looking to partake in some spooky season shenanigans. In fact, there are so many great options in the Bluff City over the next few weeks that we had to whittle our list down to just 10 of the most essential events. So put your costume together (You went with Squid Game? How original!) and start circling dates on your calendar now, because Halloween is officially back baby!

The Mid-South Maze at the Agricenter
Ongoing until Oct. 31

Few annual events are as beloved as the Mid South Maze, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. The 10-acre corn maze, which features a Memphis skyline design, is wholesome family fun for the most part, but during Friday and Saturday’s after 7PM things get a bit creepier with their popular haunted maze nights.

Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital Zoo Boo
Oct. 15-17, 22-24, 28-31

Every year around this time, the Memphis Zoo transforms into an impressive homage to everything Halloween, with an abundance of special programming appropriate for kids of all ages. From various trick-or-treat stations to the jack-o-lantern jamboree to free rides for kids, this is truly one of the city’s premier holiday events, especially for families with children.

Creepville Market at the Lamplighter Lounge
October 16

While this year’s Monster Market will be held completely online this year, folks who prefer to shop for their spooky wares in person should check out the Creepville Market between 1-6PM at the Lamplighter Lounge. The market will include a wide selection of goods from local makers, including art, clothing, and more. You can check out a complete list of vendors on their Instagram at @creepvillemarket

Day of the Dead at Crosstown Concourse
October 16

As you probably know, Día de Muertos is a Mexican holiday held on November 1st and 2nd when families gather to honor the memory of deceased loved ones. Crosstown Concourse, in partnership with Cazateatro, will be celebrating the holiday a couple of weeks early in the central atrium with a free event featuring music, folklore, dancers, altars, and crafts. In addition, a free screening of the Pixar film “Coco” will be showing in the Crosstown Theater at 2PM.

Shoktoberfest at Black Lodge
October 24

If one Memphis institution truly understands the unique allure of Halloween, the it would have to be Black Lodge, the unique Crosstown business that combines an old school video rental store with a live venue space. Black Lodge will be hosting events throughout the month, but we’re especially excited about Shoktoberfest, their “queer music and variety show” that is being put together in conjunction with Barbie Wyre. The event will feature a costume contest, live music, drag performances, film screenings, and much more.

Fright Night at the Brewery at Memphis Made
October 28

Boos meet brews at this year’s Fright Night at Memphis Made Brewing Co., a Halloween-themed fundraiser for United Housing Inc. In addition to helping a good cause, you’ll also be able to participate in a costume contest while drinking some of the finest beer in the 901. Tickets begin at $25 and include one drink, (beer or wine) and one meal from the food truck.

Blast Habit Halloween at Bar DKDC
October 29

On the Friday before Halloween, Blast Habit Records will be taking over Bar DKDC for an evening of scary good music and burlesque. The power trio So Gung Ho will be performing alongside Alicja Trout and dancer Velvetina Taylor for a rocking night that promises to roll deep into the dark night. Costumes are, of course, highly encouraged.

Heady Halloween at 831 S. Cooper
October 30

We’ve already discussed Black Lodge’s many events this month, but something is also brewing at their newly renovated former home on Cooper St. Heady Halloween promises to be one of the grooviest events in town on Halloween weekend with a costume contest and late night jams from Shorty & the Grooves & Grape.

Time Warp Drive-In
October 30

Time Warp, the monthly curated series of classic, strange, and cult films at the Summer Ave. Drive In, is back this month with “American Nightmares: The Teen Horror Cinema of Wes Craven.” The Halloween-themed movie marathon will include screenings of “A Nightmare on Elm Street,” “Scream,” “The People Under the Stairs,” and “The Hills Have Eyes.”

After Hours Tour at Elmwood Cemetery
October 31

Elmwood is one of the state’s most storied and historically significant cemeteries, providing the final resting place for “mayors, governors, madams, blues singers, suffragists, martyrs, generals, civil rights leaders, holy men and women, outlaws and millionaires.” On Halloween night, they will be opening their gates to the public for an after hours tour that will walk you through the history of the grounds and highlight some of the most notable figures buried there. Scares AND a little history lesson? Sounds like a win-win to us.

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1. Play Clue (over zoom) dressed up as your favorite Character!

First up on our socially distant halloween to do list is a callback to generations passed. Bust out that old game of Clue and have at it! The classic board game comes stock with a slew of characters to choose from, from the affable Professor Plum, to the mysterious Miss Scarlet, all of which you can find cheap costume appointments to add to the hilariousness and terror! Best performance WINS HALLOWEEN!

2. Do a Tarot Card Reading

Tap into the world of magic and mystery, and have a whole lot of fun doing so. Ever fancy yourself a fortune teller? Have a go at it now, as you perform the role with panache and style! Grab a deck of tarot cards, throw on the spooky music and have your friends drop by for a reading! Call me now!

3. Host a Horror Themed watch Party!

We have the technology! We can share the scares today! Find yourself a few of the most deranged and terrifying horror films out there, and host a virtual watch party with your friends. Check out this article from wired.com for the best tricks and tips! 

4. Have a Pumpkin Carving Contest on Facebook groups

It’s time to celebrate the season with the time honored tradition of carving a Jack O’Lantern. This year, stay safe and socially distant by doing so with friends and family over facebook groups! Create a group and invite your friends to the party. Everyone plans to have their Jackolanterns prepared by the big day! Share photos, stories, and even spin a yarn on the origin of your toothless pal.

5. Mix a Spooky Cocktail

Halloween takes place on a Saturday this year, which gives you plenty of time to celebrate, and recover from the big day! Mix yourself a batch of Autumn Sangria or Pumpkin butter bourbon, and have at it. Share stories of Halloween past with friends from a safe distance, and make a drinking game out of it! “Remember When you dressed up like batman when you were 6? – That’s a story from your childhood, take a shot!”

Ideas to share with the whole family! 

1. Decorate your home with Spooky and silly Halloween Décor! 

There is nothing quite like a home adorned with the things that go bump in the night. Just because trick or treating this year will certainly look and feel very different from years past, doesn’t mean that you can’t break out the silly skulls and gruesome gravestones and create a horror scene all in your own front yard! Take many pictures and share them with friends and family to celebrate the season! 

2. Have your kids cosplay as their favorite cartoon or movie, while having a movie marathon! 

From the Avengers to Dora the Explorer, there is a limitless number of ideas for your kids to pick from for their Socially distant halloween this year. Take a survey, and find out who they want to be! Now, have them play out their favorite characters’ lives while enjoying the show (both on TV, and in front of your eyes!) Don’t forget the candy!

3. Face painting party with kids

Gather your family, its about to get artsy! Instead of buying masks this year, why don’t you take the time to get creative and have a face painting party with your children! Create a spooky ambience with music and decorations, and have your little one choose from a few options! Take liberties with the makeup and have a laugh and make a memory!

4. Throw a fall crafting party

This year, bring the family together by making your own halloween decorations! Carve the pumpkin, create a few ghosts and ghouls out of construction paper and crayons, and decorate everywhere! Your kids will love spending the time on their very own decorations, and have a story to bring back to their friends!

5. Play Halloween Video games!

There is no shortage of video games on all systems that share a good deal of frights and scares. Load up a frightening game (or download special halloween based content for a few dollars) and have your little ghosts gather around the game to take turns playing in a world of frights! 

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

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