The West Hollywood Halloween Carnaval will commence in full revelry for the first time since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The celebration has been a cornerstone holiday event for West Hollywood since 1987. Over the decades, Carnaval has evolved into a renowned community gathering of impressive costumes and entertainment. So much so that thousands flock to the party and some even come from around the world.
As usual, Carnaval will take place on Oct. 31. The 2023 edition will unfold from 6 to 11 p.m. on Santa Monica Boulevard between North Doheny Drive and North La Cienega Boulevard. Closed off from traffic for the night, the one-mile stretch is dedicated to dancing, showing off costumes and more.
The life of the party will be at the intersection of Santa Monica and North San Vicente Boulevards right near Rocco’s and Gym Sports and Grill. At this epicenter, you’ll find a live DJ and food trucks that you can stop by before or between stops at other bars and restaurants like Stache, The Abbey and Hi Tops.
The West Hollywood Carnaval is always a major highlight of the year, but its return following a three-year hiatus makes the 2023 celebration all the more special.
West Hollywood Travel + Tourism Board, which promotes the event, captured the sentiment: “First launched in 1987, West Hollywood’s celebration of Halloween is rooted in the city’s diverse culture and community… Returning for the first time since 2019, this year’s Halloween Carnaval signifies West Hollywood’s triumphant post-pandemic recovery with all new hotels, restaurants, and bars to experience, as well as those that have stood the test of time.”