So how many Caitlyn Jenner and Donald Trump costumes are we going to see this year? With Halloween falling on a Saturday this year, Madison has a lot of events going on this weekend, including:
Friday, Oct. 30
- DMBA Trick or Treat (free): If the kiddos didn’t get enough trick-or-treating at State Street businesses on Wednesday, they can head to Middleton and do it all over again from 11 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. at dozens of locations.
- Hilldale-o-Ween (free): This is a week-long celebration. On Friday, enjoy a performance by Ken Lonquist, a laser light show and candy from participating businesses.
- Adult Swim Monster Mashup ($12.75 advance/$15 day-of): The Madison Children’s Museum is adding a Halloween theme to its popular Adult Swim event, including a giant pinata and squash decorating.
- A Freakin’ Halloweekend ($10): The High Noon Saloon hosts this two-day event in which local bands dress up as their favorite “mega-bands.” Examples include Beat of Burden as the Rolling Stones on Friday and the Scars as the Cars on Saturday. Shows start at 8 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 31
- Halloween Parade (free): Starting at 2:30 p.m. at Library Mall, follow the parade to the Cardinal Bar for a party that supports Primates Incorporated.
- Halloween Bash (free): This was previously known as the Halloween Block Party Bash. Mike Schneider will be performing at the Essen Haus and The Lower Fifth and Northern Pines Band will both perform at Come Back In.
- Halloween Bash ($8): Badger Bowl’s party runs from 9:15 p.m. – 1:15 a.m. and features a performance by Cherry Pie and a costume contest.
- 80s Halloween Party (free): If you don’t want to head downtown, you can go to Twist Bar & Grill from 6:30-9 p.m. to enjoy specials on appetizers and drinks and take part in a costume contest.
- Freakfest ($10 advance/$15 at the gates): Madison’s official Halloween party takes place from 7 p.m. – 1:30 a.m. on State Street. This year’s headliners are Modern Mod and Racing Pulses. The people-watching alone is worth the price of admission. If you want to save a few bucks, head to the bars early, before the gates on State Street are erected.
- 80s vs. 90s Halloween Costume Ball ($5): The almost-monthly 80s vs. 90s party is always popular, but the Halloween version is always really popular. Dress up as a TV/movie character or music icon to participate in the costume contest. Doors open at 9, and I recommend arriving soon after.
I also enjoyed the hummus bowl with falafel ($7.79). The falafel is made the way I like it–crispy on the outside with just enough seasoning to avoid being too bland. I would classify the hummus as pretty standard, which is why I’m glad I added the truly hot, hot sauce as well as the purple cabbage salad.
In late September, Burger King announced the limited-time 
Monster toppings? That’s what’s new at Papa John’s, but in this case, I’m referring to size, not scariness. You can get the Extra Large Original Crust with Monster Toppings ($19.99). What that means is you get a sausage and pepperoni pizza, topped with another layer of cheese and sausage.
