Major Streets Shut Down for West Hollywood Halloween Carnaval
WEST HOLLYWOOD (CBS) — Major streets in West Hollywood are shut down through Tuesday morning for the largest Halloween festival in the world, the West Hollywood Halloween Costume Carnaval.
Nearly half a million people are expected to attend the annual street party and show off their most creative costumes – or lack thereof.
West Hollywood Mayor John Duran warns this Halloween party is not for kids. "I have no control over what people are gonna wear or not wear," says Duran.
He also warns against bringing pets to the party. "When you have that many people around, it's really difficult to get around," says Duran. "It can be very frightening for either dogs or small children."
Scott Shenefelt, Assistant General Manager of Fiesta Cantina on Santa Monica Boulevard says from over-ordering to over-stocking, his staff is ready for the crowds. "We're always gonna have issues," says Shenefelt. "We just try to be prepared. We have an extra security force coming in."
Duran says the street closures are a preventative measure. "This started when a bunch of drunk drag queens on Santa Monica Boulevard started to stumble out off the sidewalks into the street," says Duran. "The city decided for public safety, best to just shut the street down."
Santa Monica Boulevard is closed between Doheny Drive and La Cienega Boulevard . Nearby San Vicente Avenue is shut down from Melrose Avenue to Cynthia Street, and Robertson Avenue is closed from Melrose Avenue to Santa Monica Boulevard.
The festivities kicked off Monday at 6 p.m. Street closures will be in effect until 6 a.m. Tuesday.
