Halloween is starting early in Denton with a themed party hosted by the Greater Denton Arts Council in February.
The details
The inaugural Moonlight Monster Ball will be Feb. 21 at the Patterson-Appleton Arts Center at 400 E. Hickory St. in Denton. Those attending are encouraged to wear elegant or more formal Halloween costumes, according to the event’s website.
Moonlight Monster Ball is being spearheaded by David Pierce, the executive director of Cirque du Horror, a Denton-based, family-friendly musical that dives into the ancient history of Halloween.
“Leaning into the Halloween vibe for this February event, we thought it could be a fun alternative to Valentine’s Day,” Pierce said. “When was the last time you went to a fancy gala and sat next to someone in a vampire costume?”
The event is designed to raise funds for Denton’s famous Day of the Dead Festival while bringing together local businesses, artists and musicians. The funds will specifically go toward operating costs for the 2026 event, Pierce said.
The Greater Denton Arts Council will host the ball. Pierce said the Patterson Appleton Art Center has a Denton vibe that complements the party's atmosphere and represents the community.
“The current [art center] director, Krissi Oden-Berry, is a true champion of the arts and does her very best to work with a multitude of artists [and] creatives in the community,” Pierce said.
Pierce is also working with chef Suzanne Johnson of The Chestnut Tree for the dinner and the owners of Rose Costumes to help guests dress appropriately for the event.
Guests can expect:
- Specialty cocktails
- A chef-plated dinner from Johnson
- Raffle prizes
- A performance by Cirque du Horror’s Orchestra of the Undead
Along with Orchestra of the Undead, there will be a live DJ for dancing.
The backstory
Denton’s Day of the Dead Festival is considered a staple event for the city, according to the event website. The festival started in 2009, and Cirque du Horror began performing at the festival in 2011.
Normally, any Cirque du Horror performances and related events are only showcased during the fall.
Denton’s Day of the Dead Festival includes activities such as coffin races, a parade, live music, food vendors, games, rides and inflatables for kids. It combines Halloween fanfare with elements from Dia de los Muertos and other fall traditions, according to the website.
What else?
The ball will start at 6 p.m. and end at 10 p.m. Tickets are required for entry.
