Haunts, Harvests, and Spooky Nights Ahead

Autumn is my absolute favourite time of year. Although the days are getting shorter, there is something so beautiful about the moody sunsets in the evenings. As we enter spooky season, get some balance from the Libras in our lives, and shed all that needs to fall away from us, this October has so much to offer everyone who is looking to fill up their calendars with Oshawa events. 

When Oshawa sunsets turn moody, fall feels just right.

I got together with friends before the k-os afterparty, following all the fun we had at the Convergence Festival in September. We grabbed a bite from Mexitaco (74 Simcoe Street North). Every time I go, the restaurant is full, the vibe is lively, and the food is flavourful. More than just a haunt for Taco Tuesdays, Mexitaco is a staple in Oshawa’s nightlife. On October 2^nd, the restaurant will serve as host to Quejas, a comedy special in Spanish. Even though I don’t speak the language, I would likely show up just to soak up the atmosphere and the amazing cocktails! 

Quejas brings the laughs to Mexitaco in Oshawa.

On October 4^th from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., visit Parkwood Estates (270 Simcoe Street North) for their Fall Festival Vendor Market. With over 60 vendors expected for this year’s lineup, there is surely something for everyone as patrons peruse, finding some eclectic gifts for the ones we love. It is always important to buy local, but doing so also adds a personal tone when it comes to gift-giving. The South Lawn will also feature food trucks. Be sure to arrange your route to the event, as parking is usually limited around this area. 

Parkwood’s Fall Festival will bring 60+ vendors and autumn vibes to the estate.

Oshawa is quickly becoming a go-to city for street festivals. As a lover of spooky season, I am SO excited for this year’s Boo Bash. Visit Oshawa’s downtown for the free event from 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. There are promises of scare zones, live music, gothic clothing retailers, and street vendors. Since my favourite vintage clothing store in Oshawa closed down, I get most of my debonaire wears from vendors who make one-of-a-kind gear that is always super cool, and super punk. It is always a vibe when vendors gather in Oshawa, and this festival is sure to excite! 

Downtown Oshawa will transform into a Halloween haven for Boo Bash, featuring scare zones, live music, and spooky fun!

Later that same night, Club 717, Oshawa’s local Queer space, is having Drag Bingo on October 18^th from 7:30pm until early the next morning. It is worth buying the early bird ticket to see Makayla Couture, the runner-up of Canada’s Drag Race Season Five, as they headline the event. Also featuring Mike Hunt and Lady Like as your host, this 19+ event brings the energy and the good times. This night of drag performance and bingo is also for a good cause. Buying a ticket supports the community as they raise money for Club 717 and Durham Alliance Outreach (DAO). With raffles, prizes, and a 50/50 draw, let’s show up to support Queer spaces and all of the artistry they bring to the city! 

Oktoberfest is coming to Oshawa! On October 25^th, the beer festival is being held at the Oshawa Masonic Centre (91 Centre Street South). For a $70 ticket, patrons can check out the celebration of craft beer, featuring Old Dog Brewing Co., Town Brewery, and Lightcaster Brewery. Starting at 5 p.m., visitors will receive six samples and a meal. This sounds like a fantastic way to celebrate autumn and spend time with the buds. 

Town Brewery joins Old Dog and Lightcaster at the Oshawa Oktoberfest!

On October 31^st, the city of Oshawa will be buzzing with the main event: HALLOWEEN! Check out the Black Parade Halloween Emo Night with DJ Alex Payne at the Biltmore Theatre. Starting at 10 p.m., this 19+ event promises moshing and encourages costumes. For a $13 ticket, there will be classic emo anthems. For me, this is the nostalgia I am always looking for this time of year. Bring your out-of-town friends and experience all the fun that Halloween brings out of us this time of year. 

Halloween night is sure to hit hard at the Biltmore with the Black Parade Emo Night.

If your flavour is more hip-hop, throwbacks, club bangers, and girly pop hits, there is a party just for you at A Nightmare on Bond St. Starting at 10 p.m., the TwoTwoTwo space will host a Halloween party to remember—even if vaguely. Every time I have been to Bond ST, the people were cool and the service was great. ID is mandatory, but a costume is not. Come for the music but stay for the drink specials.

As we indulge in all of our favourite fall treats, from apple crumble to autumnal soups, there is so much to do to keep ourselves cozy. When we have had enough of being bundled up at home, there are so many great events to check out in Oshawa all October long.