Halloween is coming early to Pasadena, with the organizers of “Midsummer Scream,” the July Halloween and Horror Convention which had to be canceled because large-event restrictions are still uncertain, instead bringing over 200 spooky vendors, horror celebrities and several panels to the Pasadena Convention Center mid-August.
The Pasadena version, called “Awaken the Spirits!” will be at a smaller scale than “Midsummer Scream,” and certain features for the canceled Long Beach convention may not be replicated. But, hey, for fans of the bizarre and the macabre, this is going to be better than nothing.
“As it became clear large event gatherings were going to be allowed by the state more quickly than anticipated, we jumped at the chance to do something in ‘Midsummer Scream’ fashion to bring the community together and do what ‘Midsummer Scream’ does — kick off the Halloween season,” the organizers said. “So though ‘Awaken’ won’t be as massive in scope, it will be filled with fun, community and our dark and creative hearts.”
“Awaken the Spirits!” will be on Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 14 and 15, and will also feature live entertainment and a presentation stage where fans will learn what’s in store for Halloween 2021 from the likes of LA Haunted Hayride, Delusion, Six Flags Magic Mountain, Winchester Mystery House, and others. It will maintain the “spirit” of “Midsummer Scream,” with a large gorgeous theater where Halloween industry professionals can reveal their 2021 plans, and with guests ranging from horror celebrities to haunted attraction professionals, make-up demos, education, and more.
Certain “Midsummer Scream” features, such as the Hall of Shadows, Black Cat Lounge, and other staples may not be present due to a variety of factors, including the space available at the Pasadena Convention Center.
The organizers will enforce current safety guidelines issued by the state and observed by the city of Pasadena, which includes wearing a mask, if you’re not vaccinated, at all indoor public spaces and outdoors when social distancing cannot be maintained.
“We expect all guests attending ‘Awaken the Spirits!’ to follow these guidelines, and encourage all guests to get vaccinated prior to attending the event,” the organizers said.
Tickets for “Awaken the Spirits!” are $25 for single-day general admission, either Saturday or Sunday; $40 for two days general admission, and $75 for the Phantom VIP Pass, which includes one-hour early entry both days, exclusive VIP Phantom Pass credentials, priority entry for panels and presentations, and a Limited Edition “Phantom” soft enamel pin.
You can add a $20 commemorative “Awaken the Spirits!” T-shirt to your ticket order for pick up at the event. These shirts, designed by Austin Pardun, will be on sale at the event for $25.
For more information and to reserve your tickets early, visit www.midsummerscream.org/awaken
