As the leaves begin to turn and a crisp chill permeates the air, Washington, DC, transforms into a hub of Halloween revelry. From the historic haunts of Georgetown to the bustling streets of U Street and beyond, the capital city unveils a tapestry of events that blend the macabre with the magnificent. Whether seeking a spine-tingling scare, an elegant masquerade, culinary delights, or simply a chance to dance the ghoulish night away, DC offers something for every specter and spirit. With such a vibrant array of festivities, one thing’s for sure: in Washington, Halloween is nothing short of spellbinding.

The Halloween spirit starts on October 18 with a unique Bloody Wines Tasting at Lulu’s Winegarden (U Street). Expert sommelier Daniel Runnerstrom offers a unique spin on wines with a confident twist, paired brilliantly with complementary snacks.

The following weekend, Tysons Corner Center delights with a family-friendly Fall Festival on October 21, from noon to 6 pm. Highlights include Candytopia, live music acts like Scott Kurt and Memphis 59, and a captivating live pumpkin carving demonstration by the renowned Maniac Pumpkin Carvers from NYC. If crafting is more your style, a Pumpkin Carving and Painting event on the same day offers attendees a chance to sculpt and paint their masterpieces.

The week builds in spookiness with Whitlow’s (U Street) presenting their Halloween Singo Bingo on October 24, a musical twist on the classic game where winners walk away with their pumpkin.

As Thursday, October 26, rolls around, the choices abound. The Haunted Trail at the Fitness Center at Salander Middleburg beckons with scares for the brave and a milder version for the young or faint of heart. Meanwhile, Whitlow’s is back with their Halloween Karao. Dog lovers will want to attend (Free to attend, free to enter your fur baby) Fairmont Washington, DC, Georgetown’s 12th Annual Howl-O-Ween, where costumed canines can win everything from overnight stays to dinners. I’ll be there as a judge!

As the end of the month nears, the events become more decadent. Baja Tap (Adams Morgan) lures with its Wicked Jungle Halloween Party on October 27, promising tantalizing drink specials until the early hours.

On October 28, there’s the grand Halloween Masquerade at the Watergate Hotel (Kennedy Center), promising an opulent ball experience, and head back to Whitlow’s Halloween Party with live music, DJs, and unique drink specials. On Sunday October 29, head to the Halloween Party at Buena Vida (Clarendon) starting at 5:00PM.

The pinnacle of Halloween celebrations hits on October 31. Head back to Lulu’s for Bravoween with its Bravo TV-themed bash and trivia night, while Salazar (14th Street) establishes itself as the Halloween Headquarters, complete with DJs, food, and drink specials.

Throughout October, venues like Little Blackbird (Cleveland Park) and Baker’s Daughter (Ivy City) offer culinary delights ranging from wine and candy pairings to Halloween-themed cookies. The promise of unforgettable nights, delectable treats, and haunting memories is in the air. Dive into the myriad of events and let the enchantment of DC’s Halloween season capture your imagination.

Just Added!

On Sunday, October 15, Casta’s Rum Bar kicks off the festivities with their Halloween Drag Brunch. Morris American Bar hosts a Murder Mystery Party on Thursday, October 26, and offers a special tasting menu from October 17-31. HEIST is set for a Hallo-Weekend bash with a Glow Party on October 27 and 28. Echostage features CloZee on October 27 and Svdden Death on Halloween night. Lady Bird at the Kimpton Banneker Hotel invites guests to a rooftop event on Saturday, October 28. Westfield Wheaton Mall holds its Boo Bash for families on Sunday, October 29. Opaline Bar & Brasserie celebrates with Les Phantoms d’Opaline on Halloween. Prep for these events with a visit to nailsaloon at Logan Circle or Capitol Hill? Why not?! It’s Halloween!