(Photo by Kory Aversa)
Sure, everyone likes seeing kids in their cute costumes. But there’s also plenty of adult fun in Philly for Halloween, too! With only one more weekend before Halloween, the holiday-themed fun is really ramping up. Here’s a list of spots to check out for dancing, drinks, food, costume contests and more:
Boos and Brews with Philly Ghost Hunt at McGillin’s
When: Monday, October 21 from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Where: 1310 Drury Street, Philadelphia
Join Philly Ghost Hunt for a spirited night of Boos and Brews complete with pumpkin ale and ghost hunting. The evening will begin with a presentation and Q & A, followed by a real ghost hunt. Your $25 ticket includes paranormal presentation, dowsing demo, mini ghost hunt, hot roast beef & meatball sandwiches, penne pasta, salad and one drink ticket. Cash bar with discounted pumpkin martinis & pumpkin ale. Treats! Get tickets here.
Nightmare Before Tinsel (Photo by Krystal Spencer)
Halloween Pop-Up Bar Nightmare Before Tinsel
When: Now through October 31; hours Monday through Thursday from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. and Friday through Sunday from 12 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Where: 116 S. 12th Street, Philadelphia
The former home of Simpson’s Jewelry, and the home of Tinsel Christmas Bar for the last two years, has been converted from top to bottom with scenes, images and custom art that bring Philadelphia’s Nightmare to life. Exhibits, props, decorations and photo opportunities range from scary and gory, to ironic and funny, the retro and vintage. Bring your phones charged for selfies and snaps for everything from a haunted casket, skull wall, spiders web and zombie’s wall. At the bar, look for a custom giant bar top that celebrates the true ghosts of Halloween’s past, present and future – by artist Scott Johnston. Above the main bar, Nightmare trades in the grand Christmas Gift Chandelier for spooky spectres, ghastly ghosts and other things that go bump in the night. In the darkest and deepest corner and crevices of Nightmare, look for a truly eye-popping experience with the selfie room of 1,001 eyes in the haunted doll house.
East Passyunk Witch CRAFT Beer Crawl (Photo provided by Aversa PR)
East Passyunk Witch CRAFT Beer Crawl
Where: East Passyunk Avenue
The Franklin Institute’s Science After Hours: Wizard School
When: Thursday, October 24 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Where: 222 N. 20th Street, Philadelphia
Class is in session at The Franklin School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. From potions to fantastic beasts—the magic is real as The Franklin Institute transforms into a wonderland of science on this enchanted evening. This event is for ages 21+. Tickets are $25 for Non-Members and $20 for Members.
Morgan’s Pier (Photo by Jason Melcher)
Morgan’s Pier Halloween Party
When: Saturday, October 26 from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Where: 221 N Christopher Columbus Blvd.
This spooky spectacle features an all-night open bar bash, costume contest, free hot dogs, and festive decor set-up for attendees to help drink the bar inventory dry. Hosted by Brittany Lynn, “The Don” of Philly’s Drag Mafia, Morgan’s Pier Halloween Party features cash prizes. Entry is $55 in advance, $65 at the door. Last year’s Halloween sold out, so it’s recommended to purchase early. Purchase tickets here.
Haunted Ship Halloween Party on The Moshulu
When: Saturday, October 26 from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Where: 401 S. Columbus Blvd.
Celebrate Halloween at one of Philly’s most haunted attractions. The party will feature a live jazz band in the ballroom, a Hip-Hop room with DJ Jay-Ski and a DJ dance party on the heated enclosed main deck. VIP tickets are available and feature a 2-hour open bar. Costumes are strongly encouraged but not required. Tickets are $15 for general admission and $35 for VIP. This is a 21 and over event.
Nick’s (Photo provided by Aversa PR)
Nick’s Bar and Grille Old City Halloween Party
Where: 16 South Second Street, Philadelphia
Come out for a night of spooks and spirits at Nick’s Bar and Grille’s Annual Halloween Party in Old City! Enjoy a spirited line-up of menu additions, drink specials, costume contest, candy, giveaways, karaoke and more! Party and specials start at 9 p.m. and Karaoke with DJ Lars Peterson. Enter the costume contest to compete for the $100 cash prize at Midnight. Specials include “Monsterella” sticks served with a spicy fra diavolo sauce, “Gouhlash” eggrolls, and “Fun size” spicy shrimp burgers. From the bar, don’t miss Zombie shots (dark rum,brandy, pineapple, fruit juice), discounted Buckets of Beer and Pumpkin-tinis.
Concourse Dance Bar (Photo by Tim Blackwell)
Halloweekend at Concourse Dance Bar
When: Saturday, October 26 from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Where: 1635 Market St.
Kick off your Halloweekend with an awesome party at Concourse Dance Bar! Special guest Drag Queens will host and DJs will be headlining the evening. Don’t miss cash prizes for best costume and drink specials all night long, three bars, ball pit, and more this Halloweekend! Tickets will be available for $10 online before October 26th or $15 at the door.
Cry Baby Pasta Halloween Party
Scary-oake at McGillin’s Old Ale House
Where: 1310 Drury Street, Philadelphia
5th Annual Mischief at the Mütter
When: Thursday, October 31 from 6:30 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Where: Mütter Museum, 19 S. 22nd Street, Philadelphia
A precarious party full of marvel and fright is brewing at the Mütter for another night. Enjoy tasty drinks from the bar and view the collections, but watch out for the spirits or you may need some protection! Get ready to BoOoO-gie to some spooky sounds from DJ Paul T of DJSC. Don’t miss out on some spectacular performances throughout the evening including the Philadelphia School of Circus Arts Performers and Project Moshen Dance Company. Dare to look behind the veil? Sign up for a tarot reading! Costumes are strongly encouraged. There will be a Mütter Costume Contest with fabulous Mütter prizes! Every ticket includes two complimentary alcoholic beverages and free snacks (popcorn, pretzels, candy). Additional alcoholic beverages may be purchased. Purchase tickets here.
Boo-Bahn Halloween Party
Ghostbusters Themed Open Mic at McGillin’s Old Ale House
Where: 1310 Drury Street, Philadelphia
Come in costume for this Ghostbuster’s themed Open Mic Night and Halloween party. Open mic starts at 9 p.m. Contest with prizes at midnight. Drink specials include Slime Punch, Ghostbuster bombs and Stay Puft (spiked hot chocolate with jumbo marshmallows).
Get Spooked – Tradesman’s Halloween Party
When: Thursday, October 31 from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Where: 1322 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia
Open bar special from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. is $35 (in advance at this link, $45 at the door) and includes a small bites buffet. Music by DJ Tonka from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. Come in costume – there will be prizes!
