Philadelphia has no shortage of Halloween parties, but few come with a Gilded Age mansion, Delaware River views, and an entire carnival of strange and spectacular performers.
On Friday, October 30, Glen Foerd’s annual Masquerade Ball will return for an evening inspired by vintage traveling carnivals and old-fashioned sideshows. This year’s them, “A Carnival of Curiosities,” will transform the historic estate into an elaborate world of performers, costumes, music, and after-dark revelry.
The 21+ event will take over the historic mansion and surrounding grounds for an evening inspired by vintage traveling carnivals and old-fashioned sideshows. Guests can expect the estate to look —and feel— completely different after dark, with performers appearing throughout the property.
And yes, costumes are very much encouraged.
Expect fire dancers, contortionists, and other curious characters
The evening will feature an eclectic lineup of live performers, so don’t expect to simply sit back and watch a traditional show.
Fire dancers, contortionists, jugglers, tarot readers, and sword swallowers will roam throughout the estate, creating unexpected encounters as guests explore the mansion and grounds.
The theme leaves plenty of room to get creative with your outfit, too. Glen Foerd is encouraging guests to embrace vintage carnival costumes, theatrical elegance and gothic glamour, with masks encouraged.
Basically, if you’ve ever wanted an excuse to dress like you wandered into a glamorous slightly mysterious traveling circus, this is it.
Dinner, dancing, and open bar are included
The masquerade isn’t just about the spectacle.
Guests will enjoy a seated dinner, full open bar, and live music from the West Philadelphia Orchestra, with plenty of opportunities to his the dance floor throughout the night.
There will also be silent and live auctions during the evening, adding another element to the fundraiser.
Additionally, the Masquerade Ball will be followed by an after-party in the mansion’s historic Rathskeller.
“Every year, the Masquerade Ball offers guests the chance to experience Glen Foerd in a completely unexpected way,” said Ross Mitchell, executive director of Glen Foerd. “This year’s carnival-inspired experience celebrates imagination, artistry and a touch of the uncanny while helping ensure that Glen Foerd remains a vibrant cultural destination for the Philadelphia region.”
How to attend Glen Foerd’s Masquerade Ball
The Glen Foerd Masquerade Ball: Carnival of Curiosities takes place Friday, October 30, from 6:30 p.m. to 11 p.m., followed by an after-party until midnight.
General admission is $250 per person, with tickets going on sale Tuesday, Sept 1.
Proceeds will support the estate’s arts, eduction, and community outreach programming, as well as efforts to preserve the historic property.
Lastly, complimentary valet paring will also be available, so all you have to do is pull up and pop out. For tickets and more information, visit Glen Foerd’s official website.
Come one, come all!—this is one carnival you won’t want to miss.
