Where to Have a Wicked Good Time This Halloween

Hundreds of thousands of people may flock to New Orleans for Mardi Gras, but local queers know there's nothing like the Big Easy in the fall. The gothic architecture, moss-draped trees, Voodoo heritage, haunted tours, eerie cemeteries, and nearby swamps make the city's spooky aspect linger year-round. Crawling with enough history and ghosts to turn the wicked holiday into a sexy and spooky tradition, the Big Easy plays host to some of the wildest Halloween parties in the country.

Halloween New Orleans offers a series of don't miss events, including the Lazarus Ball (HalloweenNewOrleans.com), which benefits the Lazarus Project's home for people living with HIV. Over nearly three decades, Halloween New Orleans has raised more than $4.6 million for people with HIV.

This year, Halloween New Orleans also hosts the Grammy-nominated producer DJ Chris Cox, who will be spinning at the House of Blues October 21. Dress to impress because there will be costume contests and a stage parade. In addition, Australia's drag sensation, DJ Kitty Glitter, will spin an epic block party on October 22 at Crescent Park.