NO TRICKS, JUST TREATS: Chennai’s nightlife goes full gothic this Halloween

Forget pumpkin spice and polite costume parties — this Halloween, Chennai’s nightlife is going all out. From haunted hallways in Anna Nagar homes to gothic soirées at city clubs, it’s a week where velvet, vampires, and vodka collide under flickering candlelight.

Whether you’re planning a themed house party or heading out to the city’s top spots, the air is thick with eerie excitement and just the right amount of drama.In Anna Nagar, Arjun is taking “home party” to another level. “I’m hosting a Halloween party with a twist. Instead of the usual costumes, we’re doing a ‘Cinematic Villains’ theme, where everyone becomes the character they choose, from voice to attitude. We’ll have a mini haunted hallway for jump-scares and end the night with an outdoor movie on the terrace.

I want it to feel like stepping inside a story — dramatic, spooky, and something we’ll laugh about for years,” shares Arjun.At The Park Chennai, the mood this year is steeped in elegance and edge. Dharini Ashok, Director, Public Relations, reveals, “Aligning with the Halloween 2025 theme, ‘Gothic Romanticism’ is the highlight at our hotel.” Expect graveyard-in spired décor, immersive lighting, and a line-up that promises to keep you dancing till dawn.

Vikram Cotah, CEO of GRT Hotels and Resorts, says this year’s theme, ‘Mask Up For The Full Moon Madness’ at Wharf 2.0, Radisson Blu Resort Temple Bay, Mamallapuram, combines the venue’s surf-shack vibe with the playful mystery of Halloween. The two-day event promises curated music and themed gourmet bites.Vikram observes that Chennai’s growing appetite for social events reflects its emergence as a cosmopolitan city.

“Embracing Halloween isn’t about adapting a Western festival,” he says, “but about celebrating creativity and community among young Chennaites.” Meanwhile, Secret Story is promising its biggest transformation yet. “With sets by DJ Xirex and DJ Harsh, we have thrills planned with eerie cocktails like Vampire Blood, Magic Margarita, and Devil Kiss,” shares manager Lokesh Vijayan.

So whether your costume calls for cobwebs or corsets, Chennai’s ready to turn up the fun.Tips to get ready for the perfect Halloween party:■ Pick a theme: Clear theme = clear vibe■ Plan your costume early: Avoid last-minute chaos■ Add character details: Voice, makeup, accessories■ Keep makeup long-wear: Use setting spray/compact■ Layer lighting: Dim lights + candles = instant spooky mood■ Create a photo corner: Every costume deserves a moment■ Name your snacks: ‘Zombie Nachos’ hits different from nachos■ Have one showstopper activity: Movie screening, costume contest, or treasure hunt■ Comfort matters; Breathable costumes and easy shoes■ Carry essentials: Safety pins, mini perfume, lip balm, power bankWritten By: Aashna Reddy & Fahad Hussain