Weekend picks: Spooky season edition

The vibe: Columbus' biggest Halloween bash is half costume party, half concert.

• The on-stage costume contests are always crowd-pleasers, with four categories and prizes (beyond applause) for winners.

The intrigue: For the second year in a row, it's free to get in.

• Or upgrade your ticket for food and drink savings and access to special areas.

🚧 Stop by: The party runs 6pm to midnight Saturday, shutting down High Street from Goodale Street to Nationwide Boulevard.

🎃 What else is happening: We're in the thick of spooky season, with celebrations for every niche.

• Turn back the clock Saturday during the Ohio History Center's Fright at the Museum and Spooktacular Tales at the Harrison House.
• OSU's Wexner Center for the Arts celebrates Día de los Muertos Friday night.
• And it's the last weekend to catch Boo at the Zoo.

🎤 Plus: See comedy giants Samantha Bee at the Lincoln Theatre and Seth Meyers at OSU's Mershon Auditorium Saturday.