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Fright Night at Backyard Gilbert: The Ultimate Halloween Costume Contest 

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Bartender pours a pink cocktail over ice at a modern bar, with TV screens and cocktail tools in the background.

Halloween is creeping up fast and if you’re looking for a place to celebrate that’s spooky, social, and full of good vibes, Backyard Gilbert’s Fright Night Costume Contest is where you’ll want to be on Friday, October 31st. Whether you’re coming to show off your creative costume or just want to hang out with friends over drinks and laughs, Fright Night promises to be one of the most fun and laid-back Halloween parties in the East Valley. 

A Halloween Party, Backyard Style 

Backyard Gilbert isn’t your average bar; it’s the go-to spot for anyone who loves a mix of great drinks, outdoor energy, and a community vibe. For Halloween, we’re turning up the spooky factor and transforming the space into a festive haunt filled with eerie lights, themed cocktails, and the best-dressed crowd in town. 

Our annual Fright Night Costume Contest is more than just a competition; it’s a full-on celebration of creativity, fun, and Halloween spirit. From clever DIY outfits to jaw-dropping group themes, every year our guests pull out all the stops. Whether you’re rocking a pop culture reference, a scary movie classic, or something hilariously original, you’ll fit right in at Backyard Gilbert. 

Event Details You Need to Know 

Here’s how the night will go down: 

  • Date: Friday, October 31st 
  • Sign-ups: Start at 7 PM 
  • Costume Contest: Kicks off at 8 PM sharp 

Arrive early, grab a drink, and get ready to mingle with other Halloween lovers while our judges scope out the competition. Once the contest starts, the crowd gets involved, the music gets louder, and the excitement ramps up. 

If you think your costume has what it takes, this is your chance to shine. We’ll be giving away awesome prizes to the best costumes; so, bring your A-game. 

Why Fright Night Is Perfect for Everyone 

One of the best parts about celebrating Halloween at Backyard Gilbert is that it’s as chill or as wild as you want it to be. You don’t need to spend weeks crafting a costume or plan a big night out across multiple venues. Backyard gives you everything you need in one spot! Delicious drinks, tasty bites, and a lively crowd that knows how to have a good time. 

Want to kick back with a beer and people-watch as creative costumes roll in? Go for it. Feeling bold and ready to strut across the stage? You’ll be right at home, too. The vibe is always welcoming, fun, and just the right amount of spooky. 

Spooky Drinks & Seasonal Flavors 

Halloween isn’t just about the costumes; it’s about the treats too. Backyard Gilbert will be serving up themed cocktails that perfectly capture the Halloween mood. Think bold flavors, vibrant colors, and a few surprises that might just glow under the lights. 

Pair your drink with something from our full kitchen and you’ve got yourself the ultimate fall night out. From shareable bites to hearty favorites, Backyard’s menu keeps everyone fueled for a night of fun. 

Music, Lights, and Halloween Magic 

No Halloween party is complete without the right soundtrack, and Fright Night will deliver just that. Our DJs will be spinning a mix of today’s hits, throwback favorites, and a few spooky classics to keep the energy high. 

Combine that with Backyard Gilbert’s incredible sound and lighting system, and you’ve got a full sensory experience. The open-air design, colorful décor, and crowd energy make it feel like the whole venue is alive; in the best possible way. 

Perfect for Groups and Friends 

Halloween is all about making memories, and Fright Night is the perfect setting for it. Round up your best friends, coordinate a group costume, and turn the night into your own Halloween adventure. 

Backyard Gilbert has plenty of space to spread out, dance, and hang with your crew, whether you’re taking over one of the outdoor tables or posted up by the bar. The atmosphere is festive but relaxed, making it ideal for couples’ date nights, friend groups, or anyone who just wants to celebrate without the chaos of overcrowded clubs. 

Casual, Comfortable, and Fun 

One of the biggest reasons people love Fright Night is that it’s effortlessly fun. There’s no pressure to dress over the top or stick to a certain theme; just come as you are (or who you want to be for the night). 

If you’re in a detailed costume with makeup and props, Backyard’s open concept and climate-controlled areas make it easy to move around comfortably. If you’re keeping it simple in a classic witch hat or a clever T-shirt costume, you’ll fit right in too. Everyone’s welcome, and everyone’s encouraged to have a good time. 

Costume Contest Tips 

Do you want to increase your chances of winning the contest? Here are a few quick tips: 

  • Get creative: The judges love originality so think outside the box! 
  • Own the stage: Confidence goes a long way. Strut, pose, and have fun with it. 
  • Group themes stand out: Coordinated looks always grab attention. 
  • Commit to the bit: Accessories, makeup, and details make a big difference. 

Even if you don’t win, you’ll still have an amazing time and probably walk away with a few new friends (and tons of photos for your feed). 

A Halloween Night to Remember 

Backyard Gilbert’s Fright Night isn’t your typical Halloween bar crawl or nightclub scene. It’s a blend of everything you love about Halloween. Costumes, drinks, music, and a relaxed community vibe that makes you feel right at home. 

Whether you’re a costume contest pro or just looking for a fun way to spend October 31st, Fright Night at Backyard Gilbert is your spot. It’s spooky without being over the top, energetic without being overwhelming, and packed with great people ready to celebrate the best night of the year. 

So grab your friends, pick your costume, and make plans now! Sign-ups start at 7 PM, and the contest begins at 8 PM. You won’t want to miss the excitement, the prizes, and the memories waiting to be made. 

Join us for Fright Night at Backyard Gilbert, where Halloween meets good vibes, great drinks, and unforgettable fun. 

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