Reviving an event from years past, The Festival of Arts and Pageant of the Masters is bringing back a “monster” of a good time to Laguna Beach with Pageant of the Monsters. The event will turn the Pageant’s backstage into a Haunted House with an artistic twist.The event will take place on October 26, 27, 28 and 31 at the Festival of Arts from 6 – 9:30pm. This is the 5th presentation of Pageant of the Monsters. Pageant of the Masters Director Diane Challis Davy originated the haunted house idea in 1996, it was repeated in 1997 and then again in 2007 and 2013.This year, the Pageant of the Masters’ creative team of artists and technicians has reunited to resurrect the acclaimed Halloween Haunted House as part of the Pageant of the Masters 85th Anniversary celebration. Guests will be directed through the amphitheater, Pageant workshops and stage, which have been transformed into a series of eerie artistically presented vignettes.Themed “Raiders of the Lost Art,” guests will follow the footsteps of legendary archaeologist and adventurer “Cincinnati Smith” on a perilous quest to recover treasures from exotic locales across the globe. Trek through the creepy jungle empire of the Amazon to the desert tombs of the pharaohs in this whimsical and haunted spoof.Davy reveals, “It’s not your usual haunted house. It will be a little scary and spooky, but lots of fun for the whole family.”Photo Courtesy of the Festival of ArtsIn addition to the haunted house, the Festival of Arts will also be holding a scarecrow competition inviting local community groups, clubs, organizations and individuals to participate. Attendees will be able to vote on their favorite from October 26 to 28 and the winners will be announced on October 31. This competition is open to the public and cash prizes will be awarded. Deadline to register is October 12. For information on entering the scarecrow contest, please visit foapom.com/monsters.Other fiendish tricks and treats on the Festival grounds include:Alien autopsy, demented chef and other spooky side showsUp close encounters with the Reptile ZooFace painting and airbrush temporary tattoosHalloween photo-ops and selfie stationsSilent horror film movie screeningsCreate your own mask workshop“Boo Bingo” and build a ghost with Laguna Art-A-FairDraw Halloween-themed ghouls and Jack O’ Lanterns in oil pastels with Sawdust Art and Craft FestivalTissue paper roses with Laguna Playhouse inspired by the upcoming performance Beauty and the Beast, A Christmas RoseTile glazing with LOCA Arts Education and Festival of Mosaics for a new permanent public mural in Laguna BeachMusic by KX 93.5, Laguna’s Only FMFood and drink available for purchasePlus art displays, games, and more “spook-tacular” activities the whole family can enjoy!Funds for this program are provided in part by the lodging establishments and the City of Laguna Beach.Tickets are $15 for adults in advance ($20 at the door) and $10 for children 12 and under. This event is not recommended for children under 5. Tickets are available online at PageantTickets.com or by phone 800-487-3378. Costumes may be worn by guests ages 12 and under. Guests 13 and older are not permitted to wear costumes. The event will take place at Festival of Arts, 650 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA 92651.
