West Hollywood’s iconic Halloween Carnaval is fast approaching, and this year, it’s set to be nothing short of spectacular, with over 100,000 people expected to attend. Danny Rivas, the Director of Community for West Hollywood, recently presented a comprehensive update to the Public Safety Commission, shedding light on the extensive preparations underway.
Street Closures and Traffic Measures
To accommodate the festivities, Santa Monica Boulevard will be closed from Doheny to La Cienega. Additional traffic measures will be in place east of La Cienega up to Holloway to ensure pedestrian safety. These precautions are essential, given the anticipated crowd sizes.
Enhanced Security Measures
The city’s event services team is actively coordinating with multiple public safety agencies, including the West Hollywood Sheriff Station and the Los Angeles County Fire Department. The Emergency Operations Bureau, a specialized unit of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, will also be involved. They are all set to provide increased manpower and resources, including a medical tent equipped for emergencies, akin to the resources deployed during the city’s Pride events. Security measures, especially in the evening, will be notably enhanced.
Road Closures and Unique Cannabis Activation
Road closures will begin as early as 10 a.m. on Halloween day and be fully implemented by noon. Notably, a specific segment of San Vicente between Melrose and Santa Monica Boulevard will be closed starting at midnight, affecting traffic patterns. While there will be fewer stages this year, attendees can still expect various entertainment options, such as DJs and decorative installations along Santa Monica Boulevard. Food trucks and vendors will also be part of the event’s offerings. In an unprecedented move, the city is in the final stages of approving a special cannabis event activation between La Peer and Robertson, adding an extra layer of uniqueness to this year’s carnival.
Business Participation and Safety Enforcement
Local businesses in the area have been encouraged to file for special event permits, allowing them to extend their activities and operations beyond the usual limits for the event. The city has waived the fees associated with these permits to incentivize business participation. City code enforcement staff will be fully mobilized to ensure adherence to all rules and regulations, including monitoring occupancy levels, security protocols, and the structural integrity of temporary outdoor dining spaces. They will also address the issue of illegal street vending.
Public Safety Messaging
In response to concerns about pickpocketing and similar incidents during large events, the commission has proposed embedding public safety messages within electronic signs throughout the city. Rivas, while acknowledging the merit of this idea, pointed out the logistical challenges. Electronic signs have limitations in terms of text display and frequency of messages. However, exploring the idea in strategically important locations using changeable message boards is under consideration.
Virtual Meeting and Expectations
Given the massive number of attendees expected, which could exceed 100,000, plans are already underway for a virtual meeting involving the business community, the sheriff’s station, and the city’s community safety department. The meeting aims to emphasize the importance of public safety measures during the Halloween event.
West Hollywood’s Halloween Carnaval, one of the world’s most unique Halloween gatherings, returns in 2023. It is set to draw thousands of costumed revelers to the City’s Rainbow District along Santa Monica Boulevard on October 31. The event is free to attend and open to the public.
Stay Safe and Celebrate Responsibly
Revelers are reminded not to drive under the influence, as even one drink can impair safe driving. The City recommends ride-sharing services and transit options for a secure and enjoyable Halloween celebration.
West Hollywood Sheriff’s Station can be reached 24/7 at (310) 855-8850 for safety or security concerns, and in emergencies, please call 911. The City’s Block by Block Security Ambassadors program also offers 24/7 support at (833) WEHO-BBB or (833) 934-6222, as well as (323) 821-8604 for calls or texts.
Citywide Residential Permit Parking will be lifted between 11 a.m. on Tuesday, October 31, 2023, and 12 p.m. on Wednesday, November 1, 2023.
