100,000 attend West Hollywood Halloween Carnaval despite rain

West Hollywood's annual Halloween Carnaval drew approximately 100,000 people to Santa Monica Boulevard on Saturday, October 31, despite persistent rain.

The event, which has run for nearly four decades, transforms the street into a pedestrian zone for costume displays and celebrations. Organizers and attendees report that the weather did not stop the large turnout, which provides a regular economic lift for nearby shops and bars.

Zach Boycem, the regional manager for 33 Taps, noted the scale of the closure. "We've always done it big, and we have a great time," Boycem said. "I mean, where else are you going to shut down the entire boulevard for, what is it, almost a whole mile?" He added that the venue is known for its inclusive atmosphere.

Attendees expressed similar enthusiasm for the event. Peter Wowkowych, a participant, said, "I just like dressing up, and I like seeing all the costumes that everybody has." He described the gathering as great fun where everybody has a good time. Eva Metz, another attendee, called it the best atmosphere, noting that everybody is so happy.

The festivities concluded officially at 11 p.m. Saturday. Meteorologists forecast that rain would continue into the overnight hours, with pockets of heavy precipitation possible. By approximately 6 a.m. Sunday, the rain is expected to become isolated and gradually subside through the morning.

Drier and warmer conditions are scheduled to return to the area next week.