Pageant of the Monsters Returning for 2018

Festival of the Arts, Laguna Beach, CA

Hey, folks! Remember a few months ago, we talked a bit about the Pageant of the Masters and Festival of Arts in Laguna Beach? Well, in that update, we also noted an upcoming autumn tie-in that sounded interesting and family friendly. But we didn’t quite know what it would be like.

Well, turns out something spooky will indeed arise at the site of the famed Pageant of the Masters, next weekend and Halloween night, when an old autumn classic returns for the first time in five years!

Photo courtesy of the Pageant of the Masters / Festival of Arts.

The Pageant of the Monsters is a kid-friendly haunted house that takes place in the Pageant backstage area, which utilizes the famed show’s artistic backdrops as complements to an eerie but not intense haunted house experience. The theme this year is one of adventure—a punny ode to one of the classic trilogies of all time (we, of course, all know that there are only three films in the Indiana Jones franchise; only three, not more, just three)—right down to following the footsteps of a protagonist with a humorously midwest geographical first name and very common generic American last name. There will also be autumn holiday activities and art workshops, and a festive atmosphere, so head down to south county and check it out!

Photo courtesy of the Pageant of the Masters / Festival of Arts.

From the press release:

Pageant of the Monsters Haunted House Returns to Laguna Beach October 26, 27, 28 and 31

LAGUNA BEACH, CA — Just when you thought it was safe to go backstage…The Festival of Arts and Pageant of the Masters brings a “monster” of a good time to Laguna Beach!

Reviving an event from years past, Pageant of the Masters Director Diane Challis Davy presents the Pageant of the Monsters, transforming the Pageant’s backstage into a Haunted House with an artistic twist. The event will take place on October 26, 27, 28 and 31 at the Festival of Arts from 6 - 9:30pm. This is the 5th presentation of Pageant of the Monsters. Davy originated the haunted house idea in 1996, it was repeated in 1997 and then again in 2007 and 2013.   

Photo courtesy of the Pageant of the Masters / Festival of Arts.

This year, the Pageant of the Masters' creative team of artists and technicians has reunited to resurrect the acclaimed Halloween Haunted House as part of the Pageant of the Masters 85th Anniversary celebration. Guests will be directed through the amphitheater, Pageant workshops and stage, which have been transformed into a series of eerie artistically presented vignettes.

Themed Raiders of the Lost Art, guests will follow the footsteps of legendary archeologist and adventurer “Cincinnati Smith” on a perilous quest to recover treasures from exotic locales across the globe. Trek through the creepy jungle empire of the Amazon to the desert tombs of the pharaohs in this whimsical and haunted spoof.

Davy reveals, “It’s not your usual haunted house. It will be a little scary and spooky, but lots of fun for the whole family.”

Photo courtesy of the Pageant of the Masters / Festival of Arts.

In addition to the haunted house, the Festival of Arts will also be holding a scarecrow competition inviting local community groups, clubs, organizations and individuals to participate. Attendees will be able to vote on their favorite from October 26 to 28 and the winners will be announced on October 31. This competition is open to the public and cash prizes will be awarded. Deadline to register is October 12. For information on entering the scarecrow contest, please visit foapom.com/monsters.

Other fiendish tricks and treats on the Festival grounds include:

• Alien autopsy, demented chef and other spooky side shows

• Up close encounters with the Reptile Zoo

• Face painting and airbrush temporary tattoos

• Halloween photo-ops and selfie stations

• Silent horror film movie screenings

• Create your own mask workshop

• “Boo Bingo” and build a ghost with Laguna Art-A-Fair

• Draw Halloween-themed ghouls and Jack O’ Lanterns in oil pastels with Sawdust Art and Craft Festival

• Tissue paper roses with Laguna Playhouse inspired by the upcoming performance Beauty and the Beast, A Christmas Rose

• Tile glazing with LOCA Arts Education and Festival of Mosaics for a new permanent public mural in Laguna Beach

• Music by KX 93.5, Laguna’s Only FM

• Food and drink available for purchase

• Plus art displays, games, and more “spook-tacular” activities the whole family can enjoy!

Funds for this program are provided in part by the lodging establishments and the City of Laguna Beach. 

Photo courtesy of the Pageant of the Masters / Festival of Arts.

ADMISSION & LOCATION

Tickets are $15 for adults in advance ($20 at the door) and $10 for children 12 and under. This event is not recommended for children under 5. Tickets are available online at PageantTickets.com or by phone 800-487-3378. Costumes may be worn by guests ages 12 and under. Guests 13 and older are not permitted to wear costumes. The event will take place at Festival of Arts, 650 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA 92651.

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ABOUT FESTIVAL OF ARTS

The Festival of Arts, a non-profit 501(c)(3), has always been a local leader that has helped with the growth and development of the community and the arts in Laguna Beach. Established in 1932, the Festival of Arts’ mission is to promote, produce and sponsor events and activities that encourage the appreciation, study and performance of the arts.