Laini’s List of 9 Things to Do This Weekend — Halloween Edition
By laini Abraham and Katie Vogel
1. 2011 South Bethlehem Masquerade Ball
Friday, 8pm to Saturday, 2am, Comfort Suites, 120 West 3rd St, Bethlehem
Nothing says Halloween like a masquerade ball and at only $10 a ticket, the South Bethlehem Masquerade Ball & Eskandalo!’s 4-year anniversary party is a scary good deal. Come in costume and get down to music provided by DJ Hot Metal, DJ Tanner, (both of Eskandalo!) and a live performance by Eric Vain. There will also be a local artist silent auction to raise money for Unity House in Bethlehem. If you want to get started a little early, then stop by Molly’s Irish Pub at 8pm for the pre-party and show your masquerade ticket for discounted drinks.
2. Day of the Dead Fest
Sunday, 5pm to 9pm, 500 block of N. 7th Street, Allentown
If you’re looking for a different kind of Halloween experience, then when not check out the Day of the Dead Fest. No, it’s not about zombies or the George A. Romero movie, but rather the Mexican version of All Saints Day. Day of the Dead is a holiday celebrating the cycle of life, and a time to remember those that have passed. This festival will be a combination of Mexican traditions and The Seventh Street Development Committee’s own ideas. This is unique, fun, and cultural event that you would normally have to travel very far for to see is now right in your own neighborhood and shouldn’t be missed.
3. Haunted Illusions: The Magic of David Caserta
Saturday, 7pm, The State Theatre, 453 Northampon St., Easton
No Halloween is complete without illusions and a magic show. This Saturday the State Theatre in Easton will be hosting David Caserta and his haunted Illusions. Watch him make people disappear, reappear, and even levitate. Everyone loves a good illusionist act and by the end he will certainly have you saying, “Wait, how did he do that?” Tickets are $10.85 to $20 depending on seat location. Hurry up and get your tickets quickly though, because this show is sure to sell out!
4. Katie’s Pick – Dorney Park Halloween Haunt
Friday, 6pm to Midnight, and Saturday & Sunday, 12pm to Midnight, Dorney Park, Rt. 78 and Hamilton Blvd, Allentown
What’s better than a rollercoaster ride? How about a haunted rollercoaster ride?! Dorney Park’s Annual Halloween Haunt is the perfect combination of amusement park fun and Halloween mischief. The park goes from happy summer time fun to dark and creepy to fit the season. You’re sure to get a thrill or two at this park, and this will be the last weekend it will be up, so make sure you check it out if you haven’t already.
5. The Halloween Parades
Throughout the Lehigh Valley
Parades are always a fun time for the whole family and there are plenty in the area to attend. Go ahead and take the kids out in their costumes and watch groups go by in their own fanciful attire. Kids will be able to collect more candy and even get another wear out their costume. Check the listing for times of the parade nearest to you.
6. Death and Dying Cemetery Tour
Friday & Saturday, 6pm, and Sunday, 3pm, 505 Main Street, Bethlehem
If you’re into creepier adventures for Halloween, the you should check out the Death and Dying Cemetery Tour in Historic Bethlehem. Starting at the visitor’s center, people will be taken through the oldest building in the city, the 1741 Gemeinhaus, and will learn about the early life of the Moravians, the medical practices, and way of life. After exploring the building, you’ll be led outdoors to hear the story of the Corpse House, learn about their funeral practices, and finish the tour in the oldest cemetery in Bethlehem. This is also the only tour that allows access to the Gemeinhaus, so if you have ever wanted to see what it’s like inside, then this is your chance.
7. Kula Heart Fall Festival
Sunday, 12pm, Franklin Hill Vineyards, 7833 Franklin Hill Rd, Bangor
Just because it’s Halloween weekend doesn’t mean you have to be stressed out from all the little kids coming by for candy. Relax and get back to nature at the rescheduled Kula Heart Fall Festival. This event will be featuring yoga, music, wine, and brunch. Feel free to come in costume too. Nothing says inner peace like doing warrior pose dressed as a pumpkin, drinking a glass of Franklin Hill wine.
8. Bethlehem Halloween 5K
Sunday, 1pm, Historic Bethlehem
If exercise is your thing and you love Halloween, then you should definitely participate in the Bethlehem Halloween 5k! This race follows the parade route of the same day through Historic Bethlehem and costumes are encouraged. This race is limited to only 400 runners so register soon before it fills up. Of course, if you don’t want to run, just come out to cheer on the runners and stay for the parade afterwards.
9. 23rd Annual Halloween Bash at Porters’ Pub (On Halloween!)
Monday, 8pm to 11 pm, 700 Northampton St., Easton
Sometimes the best Halloween parties are right in your backyard. This year marks the 23rd Annual Halloween Bash at Porter’s Pub. Come in costume for a pumpkin carving contest, bobbing for apples (and shots!), as well as delicious pumpkin and Oktoberfest beers. Live music will also be provided making this one heck of a Halloween party.
What will you be doing for Halloween?