Author: Anna Knechtel
While the California sun was a little warm for most of the ghouls in attendance, it wasn’t enough to quell the excitement of a summertime Halloween party hosted by Midsummer Scream in Long Beach. As my friend and I eagerly navigated the serpentined line of attendees around the Long Beach Convention Center, it was reminiscent of the sandworms in Beetlejuice —but maybe a girl we saw immaculately cosplayed as Lydia Deetz in her bright red wedding dress brought the image to mind!
Even though Friday, July 26th, 2024, was only a half-day, we were thrilled to be invited to a summertime celebration of all things spooky. The line moved quickly (thanks in part to smooth execution by the event coordinators) as we engaged in lively conversation with fellow horror fanatics around us. I was reminded why this crowd is so fun to be around, as everyone was friendly and just as excited as we were to play and explore inside a venue filled with festive vendors and decor.
As we entered, we knew it would be a good time when giant inflated black cats greeted us, accompanied by a creepy clown towering above our heads on stilts. I’d never been to a horror convention before, but even just being in the main lobby confirmed it was everything I wanted it to be. We grabbed a drink and studied the event pamphlet as someone impressively dressed as Krampus walked by with jingling bells.
There were so many vendors selling hilarious and haunting crafts. From cute and playful Disney and kids-themed merchandise to ghoulish clothing and creepy art. We fawned over nearly everything we came across! One booth was selling “Vampons,” which I couldn’t resist buying as silly gifts for my fellow vamp queens. I also purchased some hyperrealistic resin teeth to add to my ever-growing collection of weird tchotchkes. I even scored a shirt humorously decorated with an homage to the fake moon landing conspiracy. While snacking on a chocolate “Vampop” popsicle, my friend bought a neon-colored shirt with the image of the infamous Nosferatu that he can’t wait to wear.
After browsing the shops, we entered “Duskfall Hollow,” a room dedicated to elaborate Halloween displays and a few immersive experiences. As smoke billowed and screams filled the air, we toured a scary official Lionsgate haunted house guarded by a menacing Jason Voorhees. I get anxious and dislike haunted houses, but my friend convinced me to venture inside. He playfully comforted me, saying he would protect us if Jason decided to come to life as they’re both 6’5”. Tip to other anxious ghouls: do new things with friends you trust; it really helps you get out of your comfort zone safely and playfully.
“The Magic of the Jack o’ Lanterns” also had a colorful setup synced with music, and the “Haunted Car Wash” hosted a 360 photo booth with creatures that startled and entertained the crowd waiting in line. After deciding we were done with “Duskfall Hollow,” we relaxed with another drink at the bar inside. Unique windows affixed on the wall peered into one of the haunted houses, so as we sipped our beverages, giggling as we saw patrons being scared on the other side.
As an Autistic individual, it’s easy for me to get overstimulated and nervous in large crowds, but the whole event felt smooth. That being said, everyone we talked to was engaging and friendly, which helped me feel safe. It was comforting to be surrounded by fellow freaks and geeks, celebrating everything weird and macabre, so I never felt out of place. There was enough room inside to rest without too much noise or crowding, so whenever I felt overwhelmed, it was easy to step aside and relax before starting up again.
We were allowed to carry water to stay hydrated, and the numerous local food trucks outside the venue were enough to satiate our appetites before going inside. Though we didn’t have the chance to check out workshops, meet some of our favorite Halloween celebrities (like Cassandra Peterson, a.k.a. Elvira, and The Boulet Brothers), or play with the kitties up for adoption in Kitten Rescue L.A.’s “Black Cat Lounge,” we had a wonderful time. There were amazing costumes, art, haunted houses, and even live tattooing and special effects applications!
As my friend and I exited the venue into the warm evening air, we excitedly chatted about what we bought and shared our favorite parts of the experience. We decided to close the evening with pizza at The 4th Horseman (I can’t recommend it enough), where other convention attendees and alternative music/decor surrounded us. It’s the perfect spot to end a day filled with spooky fun!
Eagerly anticipating the arrival of Halloween in the fall, we agreed to return the following year with VIP Gold Bat weekend passes so we could see everything next time. Until then… bugs and hisses to all the spooky cuties and “fangs” for the memories!
Check out all our photos from this year’s Midsummer Scream!
Join the Conversation! We’d love to hear about your own experiences at Midsummer Scream! Share your favorite moments, costumes, or spooky finds in the comments below.
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That woman’s makeup is INCREDIBLE, wow