Halloween is almost here, and the Bhlen team is rounding up the most hauntingly fun parties happening across the DMV. Whether you’re in D.C., Virginia, or Maryland, these spots on our What’s New Near You digital guide are bringing big energy, creative costumes, and plenty of themed cocktails to keep the night alive.

So grab your crew, put on your best costume, and check out these parties lighting up the night!

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GameOn Bar + Arcade — Washington, D.C.

Event: Happy Haunting Halloween Bash
When: Thursday, October 31 • 8 PM – Close

Step into a world of retro games, glowing neon, and spooky vibes at GameOn Bar + Arcade. With drink specials, arcade competitions, and a killer costume contest, this old-school arcade bar is bringing the fun all night long. It’s the perfect mix of nostalgia and nightlife — where ghosts meet gamers.

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Desert 5 Spot — Washington, D.C.

Event: Vampire Saloon Halloween
When: Friday, October 31 • 9 PM – Late

Saddle up for a haunting good time at Desert 5 Spot, where country meets cool. Expect live music from Johnny Travis Jr. & The Desert 5 Band, a Vampire Saloon costume contest, and plenty of moonlit mischief. With Western décor and boot-stompin’ beats, this Halloween party will have you howlin’ at the moon. (Get your Tickets Here)

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NAJA Mediterranean — Fairfax, VA

Event: Hallowon at Naja Nights
When: Thursday, October 31 • 8 PM – Late

Experience Halloween Mediterranean-style at NAJA, where bold flavors meet bold beats. The restaurant’s modern design transforms into a vibrant nightlife scene with DJ sets by Temsa & Saga, craft cocktails, and a mix of global energy. Come for the food — stay for the after-dark vibes. (Get Your Tickets Here)

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Nettie’s Tavern — Arlington, VA

Event: Hillbilly Halloween Party
When: Thursday, October 30 • 8 PM – 1 AM

Y’all ready for a spooky good time? Head to Nettie’s Tavern for their 1st Annual Hillbilly Halloween Party, featuring $3 Miller Lites from 8–9 PM, moonshine shots, and a live DJ spinning all night. Costumes are encouraged — the more creative, the better.

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On St. Elmo — Bethesda, MD

Event: Nightmare on St. Elmo
When: Saturday, October 25 • 8 PM – Late

Step into On St. Elmo for a night of aerial performances, pole artistry, and a costume party like no other. The venue’s chic ambiance transforms into a spooky spectacle where creativity takes center stage. This one’s perfect for anyone looking for an elevated, one-of-a-kind Halloween experience.

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Vortex Restaurant & Lounge — Washington, D.C.

Event: Halloween at Vortex
When: Friday, October 31 • 8 PM – Close

Celebrate Halloween in style at Vortex Restaurant & Lounge, one of D.C.’s top Black-owned venues known for its incredible food, cocktails, and energy. Chef Duan Samuels brings heart and soul to every plate — and this Halloween, the vibes will match. Expect a mix of elegance, music, and nightlife magic.

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Pro Tip:

Heads up — the venues in this guide rotate every six months! As new places open and trends evolve, Bhlen updates your digital guide so you’re always seeing what’s fresh, exciting, and worth visiting.

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Ready to Explore?

Find all these parties and more on our Bhlen “What’s New Near You” digital guide — your go-to map for the newest bars, restaurants, and experiences across the DMV. Tap, explore, and see what’s hauntingly good near you this Halloween.