Halloween is a big deal. According to the National Retail Federation’s annual survey, about $9 billion will be spent on candy, costumes, decorations, and all the other stuff that makes Halloween one of the most popular holiday in the U.S., second only to Christmas. The average American spends over $85 for this holiday alone.
Irvington is Halloween Central in Indiana — the neighborhood on the east side has a reputation for being haunted. Whether or not you believe in ghosts and spirits, the Historic Irvington Halloween Festival, now in its 72nd year, is fun for the whole family. It is also a chance to help out local community organizations and get to know your neighbors.
The Halloween Festival Charity Ball on Oct. 20 was a sell-out, and packed the Lodge until midnight, officially kicking off the week of activities in Irvington. On Oct. 21, a big crowd came out for the Art and Poster Auction at Our Lady of Lourdes, where the top poster winner original artwork by Emma Overman garnered a whopping $750! Other original artworks were auctioned, including Nicholas Shaver’s on-the-spot painting of the Charity Ball the night before. Lots of money was raised to help support the Halloween Festival for next year.
“Whispers From the Grave,” the dramatic readings associated with D.C. Stephenson’s and H.H. Holmes’ crimes in Irvington, was a sell-out, filling the Irving Theatre on Oct. 20 in the afternoon. Al, Rhonda, and his team of volunteers, plus the readers, did a fantastic job. Proceeds of the afternoon went to support the free press of Irvington — the Weekly View. (Thank you to everyone for your continued support of this community newspaper.)
The Irvington Artists Show and Founders Award presentation on Oct. 22 at the Bona Thompson Memorial Center was a resounding success, with Jack and Dawn Nelson (owners of Central Ace Hardware), Kathleen Angelone (former owner of Bookmamas), and Larry and Kathleen Tindall (community activists and founders of the Luminaria) honored for their tireless work on behalf of the community.
Here’s a roundup of events in Irvington before the Street Fair on Saturday, Oct. 27 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. between Ritter and Bolton on East Washington St.
The last Irvington Ghost Tours will be held Fri., Oct. 26 and Sat., Oct. 27. Tours start at 7 p.m. promptly, meeting at 10 Johnson next to the Irving Theatre. Tickets are $20 (cash only) and include a glow bracelet and a copy of the book Irvington Haunts. The Tour Guide. It is about a two hour deep dive into the history of Irvington, including its most (in)famous inhabitants. Proceeds of the tours go to Irvington charities, include the food pantry at Gaia Works.
• A Night Out in Sleepy Hollow will be on Thurs., Oct. 25 at 6 p.m. at the Irving Circle Park, 5703 University Ave. This free event is open to all ages. Winners of the Spooky Stories contest and professional storytellers will read, plus the Black Hat Society witches will dance, and there may be a surprise guest or two.
• Carb Fright Night Spaghetti Supper and Zombie Bike Ride will be held on Fri., Oct. 26. The supper is only $5 and Maria Dufour is doing the cooking at Our Lady of Lourdes (Downey and East Washington St.). The costumed bike ride begins at the library, 5625 E. Washington St., at 7 p.m. (Must have lights on bikes, plus helmets.)
• 2018 Circle City Derby Girls Costumed Co-Ed Roller Derby will be on Sat., Oct. 27 from 6:30-9:30 p.m. at Ellenberger Park rink, 5301 E. St. Clair. Tickets are $10 and kids under 6 get in free to this event. Get there early for best seating.
• Gluestick presents Graveyard Smash will begin at noon Sat., Oct. 27 at Irvington Vinyl & Books, 9 Johnson. This is a collaborative zine making event and free. Supplies are available, but participants are welcome to bring their own.
The 72nd Annual Historic Irvngton Halloween Festival kicks off with the Vampire Run at 8:45 a.m. followed by Indy Grimo Coffin Races at 11 a.m. The street fair opens at 10 a.m. and closes at 5 p.m., with lots of activities for everyone throughout the day. The Irvington Halloween Fest Afterparty begins at 6 p.m. and is adults only at Playground Production, 5529 Bonna Ave. #10 (tickets $20 at the gate).
Have a safe and fun Halloween on Wed., Oct. 31!
