Photo: Garth Johnston
Pumpkin-carving and cookie-decorating are a part of these upcoming Halloween events.
October 24: Mon Ami Gabi’s Reston and Bethesda locations are getting into the Halloween mood with carving events. Tools are provided, and there will be warm cider and treats, as well as prizes like dinner for four (2–4 PM; complimentary entry; space is limited so reservations are suggested; Reston: 703-707-0233; Bethesda: 301-654-1234).
October 27: At its fifth annual pumpkin-carving contest, held on its patio from 6–8 PM, the Helix Hotel will provide patrons with pre-scooped pumpkins and carving tools, as well as happy-hour specials including $7 burgers, $7 specialty cocktails, $4 bottle beers and $2 PBRs. Prizes will be awarded for the spookiest pumpkin as well as the best overall design, which will net a one-night weekend stay at the Hotel (202-462-9001).
October 29: Buzz, the Alexandria bakery and lounge (rather than the blog you're reading), hosts its annual Boo-Fest celebration, a free event where costumed kids can decorate sugar cookies, play games and win prizes while their parents sip a complimentary cup of steamed apple cider (3–6 PM; 703-600-2899).
October 31: A kids' pumpkin-carving class goes down at Wildfire in Tysons Galleria from 11:30 AM–12:30 PM, with instruction and encouragement supplied by celebrities like Fox News anchor Allison Seymour and her daughters. All participants will take home their creations and a goody bag ($10 for a parent and up to two children; 703-442-9110).