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Halloween Happenings

Where to Go Once You’re All Dressed Up

Haunted houses and costume contests abound for young and old goblins and ghouls on this freaky Friday. Whether you’re looking for the eerie notes of organ music or the sweet sounds of drink specials, Washington, D.C., will be in no shortage of celebrations this Halloween.

Entertainment

Movie: “Great Moments in Screen Terror: Scare Tactics of Hollywood.” Today. Film historian Max Alvarez uses film clips to discuss Hollywood’s horror film techniques, such as atmospheric chills, heart-stopping jolts, monsters, maniacs, ghouls, apparitions and other shocks. 7-9 p.m., Carmichael Auditorium, American History Museum; $15 general admission, $12 for Smithsonian Resident Associate members.

Walking Tour: “Capital Hauntings.” Friday. No other part of the city claims a more mysterious, macabre history than Lafayette Square, the park just north of the White House. The restless ghosts of presidents, a first lady, assassins and military officers are rumored to roam the hallways of old homes, a theater and even the White House. As the day draws to a close, you’ll creep through the park and adjoining streets past these haunted sites, while a guide tells ghost stories. The walk concludes at a neighborhood watering hole where you can calm your nerves with a soothing cup of tea or pint of restorative lager. 7:30 and 10 p.m.; Adults $10, children under 12 $5; meet at McPherson Square Metro, Vermont Avenue exit.

Concert: “Halloween Organ Concert and Cemetery Tour.” Today. After a walk along monuments and vaults lit by luminaries, head to the Chapel of Resurrection, where J.W. Arnold, music director at Christ Episcopal Church, will play a variety of “scary” compositions. 6:30 and 7 p.m., Congressional Cemetery, 1801 E St. SE, admission is free, but donations are suggested; (202) 543-0539.

Bars and Restaurants

Hawk ’n’ Dove. Today. Enjoy witches’ brew and bottles of beer at this classic Capitol Hill bar. 329 Pennsylvania Ave. SE.

Cantina Marina. Today. Featuring the live music of Wil Gravatt, this bar tonight will be in search of the “freakiest costume.” Cover is $10, which includes “light horror d’oevres.” 600 Water St. SW.

Fado. Today. Wear angelic white to this “Heaven on Earth” pre-Halloween bash and you could win a trip to the Elizabeth Arden Day Spa, a $100 gift certificate to Victoria’s Secret and more. Live music and drink specials will be offered. Doors open at 6 p.m. 808 Seventh St. NW.

Les Halles. Friday. The French restaurant celebrates its 10th anniversary with a “French roaring twenties” costume party. Anyone who comes in a costume will receive a free glass of champagne. Call (703) 534-4600 to RSVP. 1201 Pennsylvania Ave. NW.

Hard Rock Café. Friday. The D.C. Society of Young Professionals’ annual Graveyard Jam includes dancing, karaoke, costume contests, music and reduced-priced drinks. 999 E St. NW.

Lulu’s Club Mardi Gras. Friday. Those partygoers decked out in costumes will appreciate a discounted cover charge, everyone else pays $20. Lulu’s promises $1,000 for the winner of their costume contest, with the runner-up receiving $500. M Street at 22nd Street Northwest.

Rumors. Friday. For $10, or $7 in costume, you can be part of the “Nightmare on M St. Bar Crawl,” which starts at 5 p.m. Participating bars are the Front Page, Sign of the Whale, Recessions, Tequila Grill, Madhatter, Black Roost Pub and the Toka Café. 1900 M St. NW.

McFadden’s Restaurant and Saloon. Today. Ace and Steven from MTV’s “Real World Paris” and “Real World Las Vegas” will be at this Halloween Eve Masquerade Ball. The best costume winner will receive $500. Doors open at 6 p.m. 2401 Pennsylvania Ave. NW.

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