'Hocus Pocus'-inspired Halloween pop-up returns to Farmingdale

The Witch Craft Halloween pop-up party is returning to Farmingdale this fall following a successful launch last year.

"What inspired me to bring this back was the amazing amount of support and popularity it gained last year," explains Mike Marra, president of the Unique Social Events company and creator of the event.

Much like the original soiree, this pop-up will once again take place in a festively decorated room with nods to the 1993 Disney film "Hocus Pocus." Entertainment will be provided by the singing Sanderson sisters, portrayed by actresses Bette Midler, Kathy Najimy and Sarah Jessica Parker in the movie about a trio of witches from 17th-century Salem who are accidentally resurrected in the 20th-century.

Marra says this time around there will be some changes: The singing performance will be extended, and diners with reservation tickets will receive souvenir "Hocus Pocus" cups.

The gathering’s "Salem Eats" harvest menu has also been expanded. On the menu are fresh dishes like "Witches Hair Pescatore" (angel hair pasta with squid ink), the "Silence of the Lambs" lamb lollipop rack and the "Grilled Bat Wings" (which are really chicken). New signature cocktails will also be served from the "Pick Your Poison" menu, with items such as "Salem Pumpkin Spice," the "Binx Black Cat Cosmo" and the "Witches Brew for Two." Those not looking for the dinner show can come after the food service ends, enter for no fee and grab drinks; a DJ will be spinning during these after-hours sessions.

Marra notes that just as last year’s Halloween pop-up led to a string of seasonal pop-up events from his company, "following Halloween we will roll right into [a Christmas pop-up party] where we have some exciting additions."

The event runs Oct. 6 to 31, Wednesdays through Sundays, with four sessions on Wednesdays and Thursdays (6, 6:15, 8, 8:15 p.m.), six on Fridays (additional shows at 10, 10:15 p.m.) and then 12 on Saturdays and Sundays (between noon and 10:15 p.m., with brunch served noon to 4 p.m.). Tickets are $20-$35, depending on the day and time and tickets are available in advance via the website. Each session is 90 minutes and entrance fees do not apply to food and drink purchases. Walk-ins are accepted based on table availability on a first-come, first serve basis.