As many as a half-million people are expected to descend on West Hollywood tonight for the annual Halloween Carnaval, billed as the world’s largest Halloween party — which this year will pay special tribute to the 40th anniversary of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show.”
The film’s star, Tim Curry, will be named the city’s honorary mayor at a ceremony planned in the midst of the party.
The Carnaval, scheduled for 6 to 11 p.m. but likely to last much longer, will take place along Santa Monica Boulevard between Doheny Drive and La Cienega Boulevard. Past events have attracted up to 500,000 people, many dressed in extremely creative and often-outrageous costumes.
“There will be wonderful performances and entertainment — and of course, people who come out and celebrate Halloween in West Hollywood never hold back on amazing, elaborate costumes,” West Hollywood Mayor Lindsey P. Horvath said. “It’s really fun to see the creativity that people bring to this incredible celebration of Halloween and our city.”
The Carnaval began in 1987 and has grown annually, evolving into a Southland and national phenomenon.
Amid the sea of humanity, the Carnaval will offer seven entertainment areas featuring bands, DJs, dancers, artists and painters. Headlining the musical performances will be former Culture Club lead singer Boy George on the San Vicente Stage at the intersection of Santa Monica and San Vicente boulevards.
Curry will be honored at 8:45 p.m. on the same stage.
Also on the performing lineup are:
— Thea Austin, DJ Tendaji, Brit J, Lotus Jackson and Anson Sky on the Almont Stage;
— Teki Traxx, DJ Aaron Colbert and Tamra on the Hancock Stage;
— Ray Isaac and DJ Andy Androgyne on the La Peer Stage;
— Marley Munroe and DJ Michelle Pesce on the West Knoll Stage; and
— DJ Skruffeh on the Westbourne Stage.
Carnaval-goers are urged to show off their costumes by posting pictures online with the hashtag #wehohalloween. Photo stations will also be located throughout the party area, with images posted at www.facebook.com/wehocarnaval.
For people who can’t attend the festivities, a live-stream broadcast of the Carnaval will be provided at www.YouTube.com/WehoTV.
More information on the Carnaval is available online at weho.org/halloween or by calling (323) 848-6503.
