Do Halloween across the bay at CJ's

With October now in full swing, the attention of many party people is firmly pointed at Halloween.

There are a few days every year that are considered critical for great times at bars, clubs and other social spots – such as St. Patrick’s Day, Memorial Day, New Year’s Eve and the night before Thanksgiving – but the celebrating of Halloween on the late-night circuit is a special occasion like no other. Instead of the usual “dressing to impress” theory – to either enhance chances of firing up a new romance or to gain access to a venue with a dress code – the concept of attire befitting All Hallows' Eve involves scary (or sexy) costumes, garish make-up and masks. It’s a singular experience to spend a night whooping it up with a large group while socializing – and with many places offering prizes to those guests deemed “best-dressed,” the Halloween holiday can even be profitable.

In truth, virtually every establishment that serves alcohol has a function, masquerade or ball to mark Halloween (usually between Oct. 25 and Nov. 1), so making the scene at one or more of these bashes is no major feat – but finding an event that is especially unique can be challenging.

One option to consider has all the amenities one expects from a Halloween party – as in drink specials and a costume contest – but then adds the rare plan-of-action involving a ferry ride.

There will be a free buffet (from 7-10 p.m.), half-priced drinks (from 8 p.m.-12 a.m.) and a costume contest offering $1,000 to the grand prize winner (plus $250 for second place, $150 for showing third).

Of course, as it is off-season, the ferries run less frequently (as of this writing, the last ferry on Oct. 25 leaves Ocean Beach at 8:30 p.m.; the following boat leaves the next morning at 7:30 a.m.) – but CJ’s is owned by the Palms Hotel Group, who also owns the Palms Hotel in Ocean Beach (168 Cottage Walk, 631-583-8870) – and to sweeten the idea of visiting “OB” for this fete, rooms are being made available starting at $99 for the night.

For more information, visit the Palms online at palmshotelfireisland.com and facebook.com/ThePalmsHotelFireIsland, or check out CJ’s at cjsfireisland.com.