Thousands Descend on West Hollywood for Halloween Carnaval

WEST HOLLYWOOD, CA -- As many as 500,000 people gathered in West Hollywood on Monday night for the city's annual Halloween Carnaval, which was billed as the world's largest Halloween party and will have a disco theme.

The Carnaval, scheduled from 6 to 11 p.m. but lasted much longer, took place along Santa Monica Boulevard between Doheny Drive and La Cienega Boulevard.

Carnaval attendees often shine thanks to creatively designed and often over-the-top costumes.

"West Hollywood Halloween Carnaval is always so much fun," Mayor Lauren Meister said. "Every year I'm amazed at the creativity that people put in to their costumes for the festivities. Halloween on Santa Monica Boulevard brings together people from all over the region and it's an incredible affirmation of our community's inventiveness and originality. It's part of what makes West Hollywood extraordinary."

The Carnaval began in 1987 and has grown annually, evolving into a Southland and national phenomenon.

Actor/singer Darren Criss, best known for his work on "Glee," was crowned the King of the Halloween Carnaval. He was formally crowned during a brief 9 p.m. ceremony on the festival's main stage. Criss is starring in the touring production of the Broadway musical "Hedwig and the Angry Inch," which opens Tuesday at the Pantages Theatre in Hollywood.

With a disco theme, the Carnaval has five stages with DJs spinning hits. The festival main stage featured DJ Zen Freeman, while other stages featured a series of DJs, with themes including "UK Hits of the 70s and 80s," "70s and 80s Throwback Battle" and "Lady Boy Lounge," featuring 80s female pop icons in drag.

Carnaval-goers were urged to show off their costumes by posting pictures online with the hashtag #wehohalloween. Photo stations were also be located throughout the party area, with images posted at www.facebook.com/wehocarnaval.

-- City News Service, courtesy photo.