Village Halloween Costume Ball

More a full-fledged festival than a mere ball, this spirited event has been a tradition at Theater for the New City since 1976. Costumes or formal wear are highly encouraged, and live performances and music contribute to this monster bash. The outdoor events, from 2:30pm to 6:30pm, include a variety show emceed by Mary Tierney and Rocco Nicholas, a children's costume competition and The Red and Black Masque, a short Medieval ritual show performed by torchlight at 6pm. The action then moves indoors through midnight with 10-minute cabaret performances—by artists including Fairy Tale Marionettes, TNC’s Street Theater Ensemble, fire juggler John Grimaldi, composer Peter Dizzoza and belly dancer Carol Tandava—as well as  vaudeville acts, aerial dance, a scream contest and a "Monsters and Miracles Costume Parade." The swing orchestra Art Lillard's Heavenly Big Band (8pm–9:30pm) and Mr. Pablo's Latin Dance Band (10pm–11pm) help keep the ballroom rolling.