It’s going to be a night of wicked fun as Wilton Drive becomes the Little Drive of Horrors. As the sun begins to set on Halloween, a scary good time emerges from the shadows and Wicked Manors gets underway.
The party literally stops traffic along Wilton Drive on Halloween. The road will be closed from 20th St. (at the light with the DQ and Tropics) down towards LIT and Bona Italian. In between will be one frighteningly fun extravaganza.
The main stage at 6th Ave. will host the costume contests, performers, and DJs. When it comes to costumes, Wicked Manors fans of all ages are known to bring it and four costume contests will be held throughout the evening, with each getting progressively more adult.
Scaring Up Resources
Tickets start at $10 for general admission and $65 for VIP, which is already sold out. Parking will be extremely limited. The Pride Center on Dixie Hwy. has parking for $20 per car. Five parking lots around downtown and some metered spaces will be available, however there is no parking on The Drive between NE 21st Ct. and Five Points.
Wicked Manors is produced by The Pride Center at Equality Park, and funds raised helps them carry on their mission as a safe, inviting space for the community. Pride Center hosts self-help meetings, a seniors’ program, internet access, memorials, rallies, and more.
“This event allows people from South Florida and around the country to come together in a safe environment and express themselves,” Pride Center CEO Robert Boo said. “Halloween is a sacred holiday in the LGBTQ community where we can rejoice and have fun.”
Although a Florida law targeting drag entertainment is on hold, a code of conduct is on their website. It says public lewd activity is off limits, though drag queens are certainly welcome and will be on some stages.
The party is 50% allies, making it a true community mix. That said, families with children are asked to consider making it an early night and leaving by 9 p.m., as the party does get increasingly adult.
Spooky Street Party
While Wicked Manors itself is one big party, many, if not most, of the bars and restaurants are holding events as well. While the Main Stage is at the center of The Drive, other stages are being set up as well.
The North Stage will be hosted by DJ Joy Joy. At the other end, The Manor/Venue is setting up its own party place. Their Haunted Manor party will have its own outdoor stage and dance area powered by DJ JPS.
Across the street at LIT, DJ Nena will be spinning both inside and outside.
“There will be a lot of Halloween music and hits spanning from the 60s through today. No other party delivers nostalgia like I do. You’re getting feel good tracks you know and love.”
Pub On the Drive is hosting a costume contest hosted by the always fab Electra. Across the street in the parking lot of Alibi Plaza, the bars will be hosting in their outdoor spaces and stages brought in for the event.
Two of those bars, No Manors and Tap That Ash, are new and celebrating their first Wicked Manors.
“After experiencing our first thrilling Stonewall Pride, Tap That Ash is even more ready to thrill, surprise, and fulfill every spooky desire you may have.”
They’re making it a weekend with costume contests every night from Friday through Tuesday.
Tickets and last-minute details are available at WickedManors.org.
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