Photo by Randall Schieber
Columbus boasts a passion for the arts and creative expression, which is why HighBall Halloween 2016 honors the life and work of David Bowie. The Short North Alliance coordinates the annual Halloween celebration, which benefits the Short North Arts District by supporting initiatives, holiday campaigns, public art installations and more.
“David Bowie embodies the creative and unique spirit of HighBall,” says Betsy Pandora, executive director of the Short North Alliance.
The annual event that centers on creativity and fashion will span two nights. Drag queen Nina West and NBC4’s Monica Day will host the weekend including several categories of costume contests with cash prizes, the Battelle Costume Couture Fashion Show and several live music performances.
This year’s partnerships with local businesses and organizations make it possible to run special side tents. The Columbus Museum of Art JPMorgan Chase Center for Creativity will run a DIY costume tent where partygoers can create their own costume accessories on sight. Salon Lofts will run another tent to provide professional costume makeup for a suggested donation of $10 a head.
“What’s really been amazing this year are the various ways the community is coming together through partnerships with organizations like the Columbus Museum of Art Center for Creativity,” says Pandora.
Musical guests include Robert DeLong, Damn the Witch Siren, Fabulous Johnson Brothers, DJ Charles Erickson, Nina West & the West Family, Nick D and the Believers, and Mojoflo. Performance and event schedules can be found online at highballcolumbus.org.
Come celebrate the spirit of Halloween and all things creative at the nation’s most elaborate costume party on Oct. 21-22. Admission tickets are $10 each and drink tickets are $2 each. Admission and drink tickets will be available for purchase at the gate both on nights. Show up between 6 and 7 p.m. on Oct. 21 or between 4 and 6 p.m. on Oct. 22 for free admission into HighBall Halloween.
Jenny Wise is a contributing writer. Feedback welcome at gbishop@cityscenemediagroup.com.
