I’ve learned that, bizarrely, some members of the City Cast DC team need convincing that October is one of D.C.’s best months. As a joy that’s only available to experience right now, Halloween pop-ups are an excellent way to sell the month. Share this list with the skeptic in your life.
Tap 99 (Navy Yard)
A bar after my own heart, Tap 99 has gone full Harry Potter. All month, they’ve got elaborate decor and great specialty cocktails, including their take on butterbeer. They’re also showing Harry Potter movies every Wednesday this month starting Oct. 9, and will host Harry Potter-themed trivia, bingo, and a costume contest on Halloween.
Nightmare Before Bar (Penn Quarter)
The second floor of the National Union Building has been transformed into an homage to director Tim Burton. Brush up on “Edward Scissorhands,” “Beetlejuice,” and other Burton classics to excel in trivia and the scavenger hunt, and dress up to win the costume contest. Reserve tickets to visit the pop-up any Wednesday through Sunday this month. $14 to enter; drinks and food available to purchase.
A spicy, eerie cocktail at Nightmare Before Bar. (Priyanka Tilve/City Cast DC)
Trouble Bird (Navy Yard)
The Black Lagoon pop-up has turned this fun, disco bar into an immersive, “creepy-as-hell” experience (their words, not ours). Created by bar industry legends and featured in 35 bars nationally this year, Black Lagoon’s team knows what it’s doing. Come try some creative cocktails and get thoroughly creeped out. Opens Friday.
McClellan’s Retreat (Dupont Circle)
Announced with a cute Halloween poem, this beloved Dupont dive is serving a Monster Mash cocktail menu all October. Perhaps you’re into the Frankenstein’s Monster, with Dogfish Head Punkin Ale, amaro and crème de cacao? Or maybe the Coffin Banger is more your speed, with apple brandy, carrot cumin syrup, lemon, and bitters. With seven new mixes, there’s lots to try.
MI VIDA (Various locations)
Don’t forget, it’s also Day of the Dead season. MI VIDA is honoring the holiday at all of its locations, with vibrant ofrendas, a festive special menu, mariachi performances, and exciting activities for all ages. Specials available Oct. 31 to Nov. 3.
Little Blackbird (Cleveland Park)
Who says adults can’t trick or treat? This wine bar on Connecticut Avenue NW is offering candy alongside its wine and cocktail pairings on Halloween weekend. Available from Oct. 31 to Nov. 2.
Dirty Habit (Penn Quarter)
Attend a “Haunted House Soiree” ahead of Halloween this year. On Oct. 26, this hotel bar is going all out with a DJ and highly competitive costume contest. First prize wins $300! Tickets cost $30 and include a welcome drink.
