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Ready to don a lavish costume and head out to celebrate the fall season’s spookiest holiday, also sometimes called Gay Christmas? Though you never need an excuse to get dressed to the nines, Halloween brings the urge to get in touch with your dark, over-the-top side. With the following gay-friendly Halloween events taking place in major U.S. cities, you won’t have to hold back at all. Drink, dance, and be scary with other gay travelers and bon vivants.
West Hollywood Halloween Carnaval, Los Angeles—Oct. 31, 2019
Photo: VisitWestHollywood.com
A crowd favorite in the City of Angels, the West Hollywood Carnaval is an annual costume parade on Santa Monica Boulevard between Doheny Drive and La Cienega Boulevard. Free of charge and open to the general public, you’ll find excellent people watching, live DJ sets, and many of LA’s best food trucks. Nearby bars will be serving drink specials all night long to keep the party going through the evening.
Where to Stay
- Andaz West Hollywood, chic former hangout of legendary rockers in the 1960s
- Elan Hotel, a trendy property between Beverly Hills and West Hollywood
- The Orlando Hotel, a stylish boutique hotel in West Hollywood
- The Langham, an iconic landmark located in charming Pasadena
Boulet Brothers Halloween Spooktacular starring Trixie and Katya, Boston—Oct. 31, 2019
Photo: Royale Boston
You could make a whole day of exploring Salem (aka Witch City) in search of all things spine-tingling, thanks to its many historic landmarks and themed tours drawing upon the town’s famous witch trials and overall spooky vibe. But make sure to be back to Boston by nightfall for the Dragathon hosted by Gay Mafia Boston. Come dressed to impress — there’s a costume contest with a $1000 reward!
Where to Stay
- XV Beacon, a top-ranked hotel in the historic Beacon Hill neighborhood
- Boston Harbor Hotel at Rowes Wharf, the city’s only Forbes 5-star waterfront hotel
Fantasy Fest: Key West—Oct. 18-27, 2019
Photo: Fantasy Fest
First started as a small parade for Key West business owners to liven up October on the island, Fantasy Fest has grown into a spectacle of costume parties and other events spanning 10 days. Come to attend one of more than 60 parties, or see costumed marches, street fairs, and glamorous balls, not to mention the parade.
Where to Stay
- The Perry Hotel Key West, a boutique hotel just steps from a bustling marina village
Halloween New Orleans: New Orleans—Oct. 25-27, 2019
Photo: Instagram/Halloween Nola
Where to Stay
- The Old No. 77 Hotel & Chandlery, a boutique hotel inspired by artistic vision
Over the course of three days, the French Quarter’s LGBTQ community will deck itself out in classic costumed New Orleans style. Don’t even think about not dressing up — costumes are required! Proceeds from admission costs will go to Project Lazarus, a health care and support services home in New Orleans for people living with HIV/AIDS.
Neverland Halloween: Chicago—Oct. 26, 2019
Chicago’s most popular Halloween dance party returns again to Fantasy Night Club in Boystown. With music by DJ Isaac Escalante from Mexico City, the dancing is sure to last all night long. Go wild with this year’s theme, “Nightmare in Magic Kingdom.”
