What's Happening In Washington, DC: October 26, 2015

Santa better watch his back because sales for Christmas may still be in first place, but Halloween is second and could beat him soon — and we are sure some of that is for food and booze. Halloween isn't just for kids anymore. In fact, there are more adults participating and dressing up than ever before. And Washingtonians seem to really get into the act. Maybe it's that whole "ugly Hollywood" thing or it could be people are just looking for any excuse and become someone else, even if it's just for a few hours.  We take our Halloween dining and drinking here seriously and host everything from costume parties to doggy yappy hours and full-on high heeled drag races. So have a devilish time and don't take candy from strangers.

Fuego Cocina y Tequileria Day of the Dead Celebration
If one night just isn't enough time to celebrate the lifting of the veil between the living and the dead, then Fuego Cocina y Tequileria's annual Day of the Dead is the perfect antidote. It runs from October 31 through November 2 and will help you forget about ghoulies and ghosties as you sip bubbling, smoky tequila drinks and bask in the kitschy Dia de los Muertos décor. Try the Ashes-to-Ashes with Patron XO, dark cocoa liqueur, Mexican arbol syrup, and a rousing shot of shot of espresso-strength double brewed coffee – all served in a rocks glass with a powdered sugar rim.

Glen's Garden Candy and Chocolate Tasting
On Friday, October 31, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., local artisanal grocer, Glen's Garden Market,  is making it easy to do your entire adult trick-or-treating in one happy place — and it's free! Whether you arrive in costume, or just want to indulge your sweet tooth they will have candy and chocolate vendors on hand to sample their wares.

Masa 14 Wants You to Don a Costume, Get Social, and Have Halloween Brunch
If you are a morning person and can get your act together enough to wear a costume, then Masa 14's Mexican-themed Halloween brunch/costume and social media contest is right up your alley. With the right costume and social media savvy you could win $75 gift certificate to the restaurant. Brunch, which costs $39 per person, on Saturday, October 31 is from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and includes the usual suspects... bottomless mimosas and bloody Marys, pork belly Benedict, chilaquiles, and smoked brisket with hoisin barbecue sauce. 

The Morrison House Murder Mystery
This Saturday, October 31, at 7 p.m. it's perfectly acceptable to get a little dramatic at dinner when you partake of the Murder Mystery Dinner being hosted at The Grille at Morrison House in Old Town Alexandria. You can get into the 1920s motif because guests are encouraged to don period dress, join the action, and play detective to solve this entertaining mystery. For $100, the evening begins with live piano music and cocktail hour, followed by a three-course dinner, with a choice of red or white wine. For reservations, call (703) 838-8000.

Summer Whitford is the D.C. Editor and food, drink and travel writer at The Daily Meal. In addition to lifestyle topics, Summer also writes about culture and the arts at Woman Around Town. You can follow her on Twitter @FoodandWineDiva and on Instagram at thefoodandwinediva.