The Best Ways to Celebrate Halloween in New York City
Courtesy of Bucketlisters & Nevermore
The leaves are changing, and temperatures are dropping, it’s officially Halloween season. Get in the spirit with New York City events that promise frights and thrills, humans and pups adorning costumes, and ghoulish theatrical extravaganzas.
Dreams of Dracula:
New York is a city filled with world-class immersive theater. The newest is Dreams of Dracula: An Immersive Masquerade Experience which brings to life a Vampire Masquerade. Presented by Bucketlisters and Never More Immersive, step into the seductive tale of Dracula as you’ve never experienced before.
An immersive theatrical event, you’ll saunter through the darkness of Castle Dracula and enter a choose-your-own adventure journey that details Bram Stoker’s original classic vampire novel. You’ll find yourself mingling with Dark Romantics, Lord Byron, John William Polidori, and Mary Shelley as you all step into the dreamtime – the shadow world between sleep, nightmares, and ecstasy.
Join a secret society of the dark arts and explore a world beyond the borders of your conscious reality and knock around the limits of your hypnotic dreams. Rendezvous in the salon with the intoxicating Oscar Wilde or slip into the Alchemical Study of Sigmund Freud. Just be warned! Hypnosis, tarot readings, scary tales, darkness, flashing lights, thunder, and lightning will all be a part of this experience.
Written and directed by Jonathan Albert and Nicole Coady. Choreography by Arianne Meneses. Music composed by Dian Shuai. The experience takes place on two floors and within four rooms that spans 25,000 square feet.
Friday and Saturday evenings are for the most elegant guests with black-tie attire as a requirement for admittance. For all other immersions into this dreamscape, basic black will get you past the velvet ropes and you’ll be provided with masks. Be sure to come thirsty and indulge in specialty cocktails. *opening photo curtesy of Bucketlisters
Photo Curtesy of Bucketlisters & Nevermore
Bucketlisters presents Cityside Pumpkin Patch
Pretend you are Upstate in a field of pumpkins with the Cityside Pumpkin Patch. New York City's most expansive Halloween extravaganza has been created at The Summer Club rooftop with sweeping views of Manhattan. The rooftop has undergone a complete metamorphosis into a family-friendly, Halloween-themed experience, where the boundary between reality and Halloween magic dissolves
Grab your camera and feel the enchantment of this fully operational patch. All of the pumpkins on are up for grabs and included in most ticket packages or available for purchase. Besides a bevy of pumpkins that come in all sizes, there is a frenzy of fall activities.
The Smash-o-Lantern Zone is space for releasing stress as you smash a pumpkin to smithereens. Test your aim at Scarecrow archery, see what your future holds with Tarot Reading and get your face painted. Fall photo opportunities are around every corner at the Midnight Mausoleum, the Sleepy Hollow Graveyard, Dexter’s Deadly Display, the Ringmaster’s Circus and a Pool of Pumpkins.
Special treats and potions are also available so come hungry. Nosh on Pumpkin seeds, Carmel Dipped Apples, NY Style Pretzel, Sweet Potato Pretzels, Thanksgiving Sandwich and more. Sips include beers from Sam Adams and specialty cocktails like Frankin-Rita, Gravedigger, Black Magic Mulled Wine and Triple Hot Chocolate. The Beer Fest, Fear Fest presented by Sam Adams challenges you to face your biggest fear - Cenosillicaphobia (the fear of having an empty glass when drinking.)
BloodManor Celebrating 20 Years of Terror
BloodManor is celebrating 20 years as New York City’s premier haunted attraction with three new themed rooms and all new costumes created by NYC's ultimate Halloween store, Abracadabra NYC. The last two decades BloodManor has been oozing spine-chilling scares and thrilling entertainment, becoming a staple in NYC for the Halloween season.
This years’ experience leaves visitors more afraid with elevated horrifying attractions, mind-bending theatrics, and bone-chilling surprises. BloodManor's most hair-raising attractions have returned – revamped and amplified to intensify the fear factor. Visitors confront their deepest fears through dark, sinister corridors filled with twisted characters causing jump worthy scares at every turn. Every moment is elevated thanks to state-of-the-art special effects, bringing realism to the haunting experience and blurring the lines between reality and fiction. From cursed mansions to abandoned asylums, each attraction within the “house” is based on carefully crafted, original storylines. Visit now through November 4 and with October the 13th falling on a Friday, BloodManor will be hosting a night of fright party.
Photo curtesy of Union Square Advertising
More Spooky Fun:
Nightfall: Danse Macabre at Green-wood Cemetery | October 19 & 20
Tompkins Square Halloween Dog Parade| October 21
New York's Village Halloween Parade | Tuesday, October 31, 2023 at 7 pm
Monster: A Halloween Party at The McKittrick Hotel | October 27, 28 and 31
Pumpkin Nights at Bronx Zoo | Through October 29
Greg’s Great Pumpkin Patch | Through October 31
Immersive TerrorVision: Experience the Nightmare Live | Through November 5
Explore the HALLOWverse at INTERween |Through November 5
The Pumpkin Arch at Pier 17 |Through November 7
FALL-O-WEEN at New York Botanical Gardens | Through November 12
Catacombs by Candlelight at the Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral | Through end of 2023
Saw the Musical | Through January 1, 2024
Visit Sleepy Hollow in Upstate
Sushi by Bou Preview Party
On Tuesday, May 8th, a brand new dining experience in Chelsea opened its doors for an exclusive preview of its food and drinks menu.: Sushi by Bou. A Limelight patio located at the foot of Jue Lan Club, Sushi by Bou is the perfect spot for the ever-rushing New Yorkers as it offers a 30-minute speakeasy experience from sushi chefs David Bouhadana, Michael Sinensky, and Erika London.
Sushi by Bou invites New Yorkers and guests from around the world to embrace the Japanese practice of “Omakase,” which allows the meals to be selected by the chefs rather than the visitors. The outdoor dining experience serves 8 to 10 guests and offers drinks like sake, Japanese whisky, rose, and champagne. In addition, with summer approaching, Sushi by Bou also presents a new addition of slushie cocktails, including a refreshing mixture of rose sangria and sake.
The food menu certainly does not disappoint. With choices such as Hamachi, Albacore Tuna, Botan Shrimp, and Wagyuni (Wagyu with Uni on top), Sushi by Bou is bound to make one feel happy and full in less than an hour.
If you are looking for an unique dining experience for the summer, Sushi by Bou will open its doors for lunch and dinner on Monday, May 14. The reservations can be made via text at 917-870-1587, and the address is 49 W 20th St, New York, NY 10011.
Nello Petrucci: The Pompeii Collection
In Ancient Greek, “Καιρός,”(kairos) is defined as a critical moment in time. It therefore is the perfect name for the newest artistic project created by Italian artist, Nello Petrucci. Presented at the ArtExpo in New York City this past weekend, the “Pompeii” Collection pays homage to Petrucci’s origins and current residence: Pompeii, Italy. The collection also included elements of the ancient artwork that was originally located inside the ruins of the early Pompeii homes.
“Nello and I are from Pompeii,” said Giovanni Boccia, the CEO of Contemply Art Gallery, who also represents Nello Petrucci’s work. “Millions and millions of people come from around the world to visit Pompeii and see the ruins of the city which were caused by the volcano.” Pompeii, a city which was once considered one of the most technologically and culturally advanced cities in the world, was vaporized by Mount Vesuvius, a volcano near the Bay of Naples in 79 A.D. . The catastrophe resulted in the deaths of thousands , as well as loss and damage of artifacts. However, the millions of tons of volcanic ash acted as a marvelous preservative; underneath all that dust were artworks that were once displayed in the Roman city homes. The city of Pompeii and its rich history allow millions of current residents and visitors to witness the marvelous art first-hand. However, as the official records were erased, the names of the artist artists remain unknown.
The mystery of who is the mastermind behind the most fascinating pieces created in humanity’s time served as the point of origin for Petrucci’s project. “In Greece, for example, you know about this culture and you know who made it; we know the names of the artists. But in the ancient times, such as during Pompeii, there is no artist. We do not know who the artist was. There were no names behind these paintings,” said Petrucci. “I wanted to know who the artist was and that was the start of my project. I had a very big task of taking the work from the past and incorporating it into my work with my technique, with my style, and with my identity.” Therefore, the Pompeii project was born.
During his research, Petrucci noticed one gripping detail: the faces, bodies, and lifestyle depicted in the works of Pompeii’s artists have not changed from 2,000 years ago. “If you study [the paintings], you will see that they're completely modern,” said Petrucci. “We brought everything from the ancient times. Nothing has really changed. The technology changed, but nothing else has. The concepts remain the same. Pompeii gives you expression and style of life. In the modern world, you can send a text, but back then it was graffiti. I want to know about the past. Because life is the same. It's just a different time. But life has remained the same as 2,000 years ago.”
With the idea of ancient, yet, contemporary, as well with the aim to preserve the historical elements and add the “Petrucci touch,” it took Nello Petrucci two years to complete the Pompeii collection. The main challenge faced by Petrucci was how to bring the unknown attributes of Pompeii and its artists onto the world stage, while incorporating his own philosophy into the work. “Nello wanted to do something for these artists. He wanted to attribute them by bringing the artworks from the inside of Pompeii to the rest of the world,” said Boccia. “It is strange because the connection is very beautiful, these paintings come back, but they come back with the name of Nello Petrucci. All people in the world can now share how amazing and how beautiful these artworks are. But now they have a name on them: Nello Petrucci.”
The Pompeii Collection is indeed a rare piece of art magic. Prior to fully devoting his time to art, Petrucci also attended a film school, and worked as a set designer, actor, and cameraman. The artist starred in the film, The Fallen, while also working with Martin Scorsese on the New York classic-The Gangs of New York. The mixture of creative directions resulted in Petrucci using movie posters as a base for all of his paintings. He purchases original movie posters, tears them down, and begins to work with layers by adding two additional posters or images, followed by marvelous strokes of paint. To finalize his artwork, Petrucci adds photos of the Pompeii paintings on the surface, fusing them with the rest of the piece.
Petrucci’s work is truly remarkable and unique. “I met Nello and I thought to myself, ‘I need to take you into my team. I am crazy about your artwork.’ He's a true artist,” said Boccia. “Sometimes you see some artists who do something because they think, ‘Well I just want to make a painting that will sell my work. I know that if I make something really important then I will become famous.’ Nello is totally crazy for the art itself. Just look at his work.”
Indeed, Petrucci’s art captivates. It certainly speaks to the name of “Καιρός,” because Petrucci takes the past and the present and blends it to create the right moment in time. The subjects in his paintings are all drastically different and yet somehow, Petrucci draws a comparison between the women of Pompeii and the actresses on the poster layered underneath. It reaches an extent when any individual looking at Petrucci’s work begins to question if they might look like the subjects depicted. “Change the photography, change the makeup, change the outfit,” said Petrucci. “You will realize: it is all the same.”
If you are interested in purchasing artworks from Nello Petrucci’s collections, including the “Pompeii” Collection, visit http://www.nellopetrucci.com/home_en.php and https://www.contemply.com for more information.
Rock'n'Roll at SUSHI ROXX
If you’re looking for a restaurant experience unlike any other, turn to Sushi Roxx. Located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, this Japanese restaurant offers both delicious food and a live dance show, performed by none other than the waiters and waitresses, who are also talented singers and dancers. But this isn't the Stardust Diner. Sushi Roxx is a little more selective with their musical choices: their show “We Will Roxx You” only features music from world famous rock artists such as Aerosmith, AC/DC, Lenny Kravitz, and Journey.
Although the restaurant has been open for a few years, it has recently launched a series of new menu items in order to go along with the musical dining experience. The venue, which exudes romantic Asiatic influences, offers delicious specialty cocktails named after Marvel and DC superheroes, such as the Green Lantern (Jameson, blue curacao, peach, lemon), the Skywalker (Avion Silver, honeydew, agave, lime, jalapeno, basil), and the Black Panther (Aviation, Creme De Cassis, blackberry, lime), as well as additional food items, such as sushi pizzas and rolls with combinations varying from spicy tuna to lobster. There is something for everyone to enjoy while singing along to some of the most popular throwback songs of the 20th Century.
For those craving something sweet to finish off the night, fun desserts, such as Nutella S’mores (nutella, marshmallow, graham cracker), Berries and Creme (seasonal berries, lemon, schlag), and Death by Birthday Cake (chocolate cake, whipped cream, chocolate fudge, vanilla cream) are just a few choices of sweets available for anyone interested in getting a sugar rush after a gleeful night.
If you’re up for some old school music with a fun twist and delicious food, or would like to spice things up by visiting a new restaurant in the midst of New York City, make sure to reserve a table at Sushi Roxx by visiting http://sushiroxxnyc.com/, and check out the menu by clicking here.
Photos courtesy of SUSHI ROXX
Sneak Preview of Borrachito at The Garret East
On Wednesday night, one of New York City’s most reputable cocktail bars, The Garret, located in the Lower East Side, turned into a finger-licking taco concept. As guests walked in, they were welcomed to a drink of their choice at the bar, where they had a chance to strike up a conversation with a compelling stranger. And when the evening went well, invitees continued their night by walking further into a more romantic setup dubbed, “Borrachito.”
Borrachito, which is located in the back area, was once a speakeasy restaurant entitled, “Dinnertable,” turned itself into an intimate and date-appropriate bar and taco spot, filled with lots of delicious tacos to accompany a wide array of boozy cocktails and luscious wines.
Borrachito brings Mexican street food inspired by family recipes to the comfort of a New York City bar. Executive Chef Yuval Ochoa thrills the crowd with tacos filled with pork, steak, and fish, as well as delightfully unexpected fillings, such as burrata. Each taco is a masterpiece of its own: the “Pork Bomb” taco includes roasted pork belly, confit pork shoulder and deep fried pork skin, andpico de gallo and pickled onions; the “Baja Fish” taco is a refreshing creation comprised of fried seabass, grilled pineapple salsa, and guajillo majo. Not feeling tacos but still want a flavor of Mexico? Try “Del Every Dia” soup, or ceviche and guacamole appetizers. And for those with a sweet tooth, Borrachito does not disappoint. There is a choice of paletas (ice pops) with flavors such as pineapple mezcal and strawberry cilantro, and duros (sweet chips) covered in sugar, cinnamon, and served with a side of corn ice cream.
To accompany the flavorful feast, grab one of the delicious cocktails from The Garret’s bar. From “Detroit Dancehall” to “Cheap Furniture,” your night is guaranteed to be a blast. With mouthwatering food and equally delicious drinks, what else could one wish for? In the age of Instagram, it is an aesthetically-pleasing venue, which Borrachito and The Garret most definitely offer.
Looking to experience street style tacos but are on a date, or would just like to enjoy flavors of Mexico with a delicious drink in another hand? Borrachito is for you. It doesn’t have to be #TacoTuesday for you to visit this cozy and flavorful location this weekend by going to 206 Avenue A, NY, NY 10009, located in the back of The Garret East.
Photo credit @fohnyc
Flamenco Night at Dizzy's Club Coca-Cola
If you are looking for a place to relax to smooth sounds of jazz in the midst of a busy city, you might want to turn to Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola. Located at Jazz at Lincoln Center, Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola hosts weekly jazz events featuring a variety of talented musicians, along with the opportunity to wine and dine, for students, members, and fans of jazz.
On Friday, March 23, 2018, Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola turned into a destination for anyone who wished to hear the collision of the sounds of jazz and flamenco without traveling to the origin of flamenco--Spain. The evening, accompanied by delicious cocktails and a wine carte, as well as a range of mouthwatering appetizers, such as a gooey mac-n-cheese and roasted brussel sprouts with bits of bacon, introduced the New York crowd to four exceptional artists: DORANTES, Adam Ben Ezra, Chano Domínguez, and a guest musician, Tim Ries.
The quartet created an energetic and picante melange of jazz, flamenco, classical, and Latin melodies in order to bring elements of surprise and curiosity into the audience. With nighttime lights of Columbus Circle and Central Park in the background, the night seemed to take unexpected yet pleasant turns with every note of music.
If you are looking to conclude a tiresome week on an upbeat note, or find a new romantic private spot in the city for a successful date night, Jazz at Lincoln Center is the place to do all of the above and more. Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola at Jazz at Lincoln Center holds weekly, two evening sessions: one at 7:30 pm, and another at 9:30pm, as well as a late night session at 11:15pm. There is always time to enjoy jazz for every New Yorker.
Jazz at Lincoln Center is also the destination for students who are looking to indulge in the sounds of jazz by themselves or with a friend, since the tickets are only priced at $20 for most of the sessions. As for the post-studies crowd, have no fear as the jazz destination allows to absorb most of the musical nights starting at $35.
Whether you're a fan of jazz or just looking for a more unique cultural experience, Jazz at Lincoln Center has it all. If you are interested in paying a visit or two to Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola in Jazz at Lincoln Center, visit http://www.jazz.org/dizzys/ for more information.