If you’re anything like me, then you’ve spent a significant amount of time debating whether – with Halloween falling inconveniently on a Thursday – Halloweekend 2024 sits on the weekend before or the weekend after the big day. And, if you’re anything like me, then you would have come to an obvious conclusion: both.
It was this mentality that led me to don my costume and celebrate early at Lupo's inaugural ‘Full Moon Party’ this Saturday, October 26th. The signs of a successful night began early, at the sight of a reassuring number of costumed partygoers making a similar pilgrimage to the venue. Having briefly bonded with my fellow costumed folk via the crucible of the DRA night bus, I arrived eagerly at the door. After a speedy bag check by the event's bouncers, patrons were welcomed under a blanket of seasonal decorations that transformed the venue into a Halloween wonderland – complete with the titular ‘full moon’ that hung over the dancefloor.
The night began slowly but tastefully with a performance by St. Andrews' own JazzWorks band. Tasteful is not the typical vocabulary associated with the infamous Halloweekend. Debauchery, revelry and hangover usually spring to mind. Yet, the lively performance was more than welcome. It offered a gradual immersion into the night and, of course, a classy backdrop for the first orders of coat-checking, picture-taking and drink-securing.
With the latter in mind, many headed to the bar to cash in the free drink token included in their ticket. They were met with a mysterious alcoholic punch. Notably, upon enquiring about the contents of said punch, I was met with an expression as clueless as my own. Whilst the secrecy around this mystery potion did not particularly bother me, it could easily have been a red flag to those with more specific dietary requirements or, indeed, anyone who cares to know what they are drinking.
Credit: Instagram/@dayofthedeadatlupos.
Mystery concoctions in hands, the clock struck midnight and the band began to wind down – not before a well-received performance of the seasonal classic ‘Thriller’.
With the witching hour underway, the atmosphere transfigured into the familiar shape of Halloween club night as DJ Grace Adesanya began her set. Adesanya’s set kept a lively (if eclectic) pace throughout the night, mixing a blend of 2010s guilty pleasures and the latest club haunts. Crucially, Adesanya was unafraid to commit to the spooky theme of the night, blaring all the best Halloween hits. I’d like to particularly shout out the unprecedented genius of the Ghostbusters x girl, so confusing remix.
Unfortunately, however great the set was, it was inevitably hindered by the event's lacking sound system. Whilst no one wants to end the night with their ears ringing, I’m sure many would agree it should be impossible to comfortably hold a conversation on the dancefloor.
Those requiring refreshments from their dancefloor excursions could direct themselves to the venue's two bars for burgers, ice cream and a series of on-theme specialty cocktails. 'Witches brew’ or ‘poisoned apple’ were two such beverages. In lieu of these enticing options, I decided to chance my luck on a pair of ‘trick or treat’ shots (and, naturally, landed the former).
Eventually, as the night’s spells wore off, the dancefloor became sparser; the familiar call towards the arms of Big Boss became louder; and it became time to depart.
As the clock ticked towards two, I joined the throng of other costumed apparitions making their way along North Street. Unbeknown to me, the night had one more trick up its sleeve. Just like magic, it was one o'clock again – oh, the joys of changing clocks. Reassured by the promise of an extra hour to sleep off the night’s excursions, I walked my moonlit path home. The night had been an undoubted success. I was excited for the future of St. Andrews' new night-out hotspot.
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