Halloween weekend is here, St. Louis—and the city is giving us everything from free art and family fun to Broadway sparkle, live music and one of the biggest costume parties of the year.

Whether you want to dress up, enjoy a show or keep things low-key with the family, here are six experiences worth adding to your weekend plans.

1. Experience a Magical Night at SLAM Underground

The Saint Louis Art Museum is staying open late for SLAM Underground—ENCHANT, an adults-only evening inspired by art, fashion and the magic of nature.

Explore the galleries after hours, watch a runway show by local designer Madeline Mehler, create an aromatic sachet and dance to mystical rhythms. Drinks will also be available for purchase.

When: Friday, October 30, 7–10 p.m.

Where: Saint Louis Art Museum, 1 Fine Arts Drive, Forest Park

Admission: Free

Age: 18 and older

2. See BOOP! The Musical at the Fabulous Fox

Betty Boop is leaving her black-and-white world behind and stepping onto the Fabulous Fox Theatre stage in a colorful musical filled with comedy, romance, music and plenty of Boop-oop-a-doop.

The musical follows Betty as she searches for an ordinary day away from fame—only to find herself on an unexpected adventure in modern-day New York City. The show is recommended for ages 8 and older.

Weekend performances: Thursday and Friday at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday at 2 and 7:30 p.m.; Sunday at 1 and 6:30 p.m.

Where: The Fabulous Fox Theatre, 527 North Grand Boulevard

Running time: Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including intermission

Tickets: Prices vary by performance and seating

3. Spend Halloween Weekend at City Museum

City Museum is making Halloween weekend weird, wonderful and family-friendly.

On Saturday, children can trick-or-treat around the museum, watch pumpkin-carving demonstrations, meet a strolling magician and join costume parades at noon, 1 and 2 p.m. Sunday’s festivities include balloon artists, a palm reader and the Pumpkin Throwdown on the 10th floor.

When: Saturday, October 31–Sunday, November 1, 11 a.m.–3 p.m.

Where: City Museum, 750 North 16th Street

Admission: Activities are included with general museum admission

4. Join the Legendary Central West End Halloween Party

The Central West End knows how to turn Halloween into an all-day celebration.

The day begins with a children’s costume parade at 11 a.m., trick-or-treating at noon and a dog costume parade at 1 p.m. Live music follows from 2–5 p.m., and the evening street party starts at 6 p.m. The adult costume contest begins at 8 p.m., with cash prizes for the most creative looks.

When: Saturday, October 31, 11 a.m.–midnight

Where: Maryland Plaza and Euclid Avenue, Central West End

Admission: Free; adult costume-contest entry is $30 for individuals or $60 for groups

5. Celebrate Michael Jackson with Thriller Live!

End the month with the music—and moves—of Michael Jackson. Blue Strawberry is hosting Thriller Live!, a special Halloween tribute featuring Santana Jackson.

Choose from an afternoon or evening performance, then make dinner or drinks in the Central West End part of the experience.

When: Saturday, October 31, at 4 or 7:30 p.m.

Where: Blue Strawberry, Central West End

Admission: Listed ticket options range from $25–$45

6. Celebrate Halloween at Capitol Bar & Grill

If you’re looking for a grown-up Halloween party in St. Charles, head to Capitol Bar & Grill for music, costumes and a chance to win cash prizes.

The newly reopened bar and grill is hosting an Adult Halloween Costume Party with a DJ and costume contest. There’s no cover, so put together your best look and bring your Halloween crew.

When: Saturday, October 31

Doors open: 5 p.m.

Costume contest: 10 p.m.

Where: Capitol Bar & Grill, St. Charles

Admission: No cover

Age: 21 and older

Contact: 314-337-5007

Star’s Pick: Central West End Halloween

My pick this weekend is the Legendary Central West End Halloween Party because you can create your own experience. Take the kids to the daytime festivities, meet friends for food and drinks, or arrive in costume for the evening street party. It’s one of those events where the neighborhood becomes part of the entertainment—and some of the costumes are an experience all by themselves.

Before You Go

Event schedules, ticket prices and availability can change. Check the linked event pages before leaving home, especially for ticketed performances.

Which experience are you choosing?

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