It's been six years since the last proper Halloween Loop was held in Wilmington after decades of being one of the state's biggest and most unique parties.
Costumed partiers would pay one cover charge to gain entry to scores of bars across the city with complimentary busses shutting them from bash to bash.
While the event has been discontinued, the Saturday before Halloween still brings out plenty of costumes into barrooms, especially in Wilmington, with revelers creating their own fun DIY style.
This year there are some more organized Halloween-themed events in Delaware bars, arts centers and even retail shops.
Here is a look at a selection of spots where you can get you spook on.
Over the years, Gingerfox Productions has hosted all sorts of band showcases from Hot Jam and Spring Jam to Summer Band Jam and Cool Jam. (Sense a trend?)
And while those shows hosted by Newark-based Rainbow Records owner Melissa Forsythe are exciting marathons of sets by some of the area's original rock acts, the all-ages Halloween Jam just might be the most fun.
Members of those same bands get together to perform tribute sets of select national acts, sometimes even dressing in costume for the show.
This year there are 11 bands on the bill, running from 3 to 10 p.m. Tickets cost $15.
The 2024 edition will feature the music of these sets: Pink Floyd (Bayrides, Collingwood, MEGA and Less Than Five), The Distillers (Grandeur and Kandra), Creedence Clearwater Revival (Castle Atom), The Melvins (Carrier Wave), The Doors (Edgewater Avenue), Sunn O (Neko To Kitsune To Kuma), The Cramps (Quickchange!), Nine Inch Nails (Being Malleable), Tigers Jaw (Metronome, Chomsky and Buff Pups) and the music of John Carpenter (Dustin Manucci Trio).
102 Sycamore Alley, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania. Visit kennettflash.org/
Bar XIII seems to be built for the Halloween season considering its year-round themed nights, including its Asylum 13 series.
The music of the '90s and early 2000s will be the soundtrack to this "Nightmare" party, ranging from hip-hop and rock to grunge and more.
There will be a costume contest with prizes for the best Halloween outfits, along with beer pong, billiards and cornhole.
1706 Philadelphia Pike, Wilmington. Visit barxiii.com/
The only scary thing about the beach-based blues trio Lower Case Blues is how scary good they are, filling bars statewide whenever they plug in.
So it shouldn't come as a surprise that Argilla booked the band ― led by Jake Banaszak (guitar) and B.J. Munz (bass) ― for a special night, which will include a costume contest.
It kicks off at 7 p.m.
Considering their draw at Argilla from past performances, you might want to get thee a little early to guarantee a seat. And be sure to try Argilla's top-notch New York-style pizza.
2667 Kirkwood Highway, Newark. Visit argillabrewing.com/
You're going to want to make sure your costume has comfortable footwear for this party, which runs 7:30 to 11 p.m.
Line dancing is at the core of this costume party, which will include a costume contest with cash prizes.
The $20 ticket includes drinks and expect giveaways, raffles, vendors and more.
705 N. Market St, Wilmington. Visit ccacde.org/
Over the years, Spaceboy Clothing has hosted everything from live original concerts to stand-up comedy.
This time around, a line-up of DJs will headline for a Halloween bash, including Shadylady, PSYBOD, 3WEM and DJ Ed Efex.
Costumes are encouraged for the all-ages event, which costs $10 at the door.
205 N. Market St,, Wilmington. Visit spaceboyclothing.com/
Oct. 31: Halloween Bash, Timothy's Riverfront Grill
Want to escape having to give out candy Halloween night, but still want to get a taste of the holiday?
Timothy's is for you, hosting a Halloween happy hour party with a costume contest with prizes, along with drinks and music that fit the theme. The happy hour runs from 6 to 8 p.m.
At 8, DJGIANT will take over, hosting music bingo to keep the night going.
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There is no cover.
930 Justison St., Wilmington. Visit eventbrite.com/e/timothys-halloween-bash-tickets-1018860648627
Have a story idea? Contact Ryan Cormier of Delaware Online/The News Journal at rcormier@delawareonline.com or (302) 324-2863. Follow him on Facebook ( @ryancormier ) and X ( @ryancormier ).
This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: The Halloween Loop may be dead, but these Delaware bars will still be celebrating
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