Venice
Sep 13, 2024
Photos provided courtesy of the City of West Hollywood. Some rights reserved. Photo credits: Jon Viscott
Thursday, October 31, 2024
The West Hollywood Halloween Carnaval, held annually from 6 pm to 11 pm along Santa Monica Boulevard, transforms the lively neighborhood into a dazzling spectacle of creativity and revelry. This iconic event boasts multiple stages with live entertainment, enticing food vendors, and photo stations, while bars along the boulevard join in with drink specials and patio parties. Thousands of visitors decked out in elaborate costumes flood the streets, creating a vibrant and competitive atmosphere that encourages everyone to dress to impress. From life-size Stay Puft Marshmallow Men to leather-clad cowboys, the diversity of costumes reflects the city's penchant for fantasy and theatricality. Located in the heart of the LGBTQ community, Santa Monica Boulevard comes alive with a stage featuring a live DJ set, food trucks, and a sea of Halloween enthusiasts, making the Carnaval a truly unique experience. The festivities extend beyond the event, with Boystown's bars and clubs, excellent restaurants, and trendy shopping providing an inviting backdrop for post-carnival exploration, complete with special after parties and Halloween-themed events.
The West Hollywood Halloween Carnaval is one of the most iconic and vibrant Halloween celebrations in the world, drawing thousands of attendees for a night of extravagant costumes, live entertainment, and community spirit. Held on a one-mile stretch of Santa Monica Boulevard, this free event transforms the heart of West Hollywood into a festive gathering where creativity and self-expression are on full display. From a live DJ set and food trucks to celebrations at local bars, restaurants, and venues, the Halloween Carnaval offers a one-of-a-kind experience that attracts revelers from around the globe, making it an unforgettable night of fun and revelry.
The West Hollywood Halloween Carnaval first began in 1987 as a small community celebration, rooted in the city’s vibrant culture and inclusive spirit. Over the years, it has grown into one of the largest and most unique Halloween gatherings in the world, attracting hundreds of thousands of people from around the globe. Known for its spectacular costumes, entertainment, and sense of self-expression, the Carnaval celebrates West Hollywood's commitment to creativity and diversity. Though paused during the COVID-19 pandemic, the event has made a triumphant return, continuing its legacy as an iconic celebration of Halloween and the LGBTQ+ community, embodying the spirit of openness and artistic freedom that defines the city.
As the countdown to Halloween begins, West Hollywood is gearing up to welcome revelers for a night of thrills, chills, and unforgettable memories at the Halloween Carnaval. Whether you're donning a costume or simply soaking in the sights and sounds, get ready to experience Halloween like never before in the heart of West Hollywood.
The West Hollywood Halloween Carnaval is an annual celebration featuring extravagant costumes, entertainment, and community spirit. It takes place on a one-mile stretch of Santa Monica Boulevard, attracting thousands of attendees.
The event will take place on Thursday, October 31, 2024, from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m.
The Carnaval spans Santa Monica Boulevard between N. Doheny Drive and N. La Cienega Boulevard in West Hollywood.
Yes, the event is free for everyone.
Expect live DJ performances, food trucks, and thousands of people in creative costumes. Many local businesses, bars, and restaurants will also host Halloween-themed celebrations.
Yes, The PickUp and Cityline will offer extended services from 5 p.m. to 3 a.m., and Metro bus lines will operate with connections to the event.
Parking is limited, so public transportation or ridesharing services are highly recommended. Some local lots may offer parking, but expect high demand.
Yes, food trucks will be available on-site, and many nearby bars and restaurants will be open.
Portable restrooms will be available along the Carnaval route.
Yes, attendees are encouraged to share their experiences on social media using the hashtag #wehohalloween.
For official updates, you can visit the City of West Hollywood’s website or follow @wehocity on social media.
Have fun.