Despite the rain, thousands came out to celebrate at the West Hollywood Halloween Carnaval on Saturday.
Every year, Santa Monica Boulevard transforms into a giant street party, where people love showing off their costumes. It’s considered one of the largest Halloween events in the world, attracting about 100,000 people annually.
“I just like dressing up, and I like seeing all the costumes that everybody has,” said Peter Wowkowych, who celebrated Halloween in West Hollywood. “I think it’s great fun, and everybody has a good time.”
The large turnout also brings a welcome boost to local businesses.
“It’s a place that’s know to be inclusive,” 33 Taps regional manager Zach Boycem said. “We’ve always done it big, and we have a great time. I mean, where else are you going to shut down the entire boulevard for, what is it, almost a whole mile?”
A party still going strong for nearly four decade — rain or shine — it’s a Halloween tradition people look forward to every year.
“It’s just the best atmosphere here,” attendee Eva Metz said. “It’s so nice. Everybody’s so happy.”
The event officially ended at 11 p.m.
Rain was expected to continue into the overnight hours, with pockets of heavy rain possible at times. By around 6 a.m., the rain will become isolated to scattered, gradually winding down through the rest of Sunday morning.
Drier and warmer conditions return next week.