Spooky season will be here before you know it, and this year, it’s bringing a spectacularly sinister new bar experience along with it.
Black Lagoon, an award-winning Halloween pop-up that’s developed a cult following across North America, is officially expanding into Columbus for its 2025 run. The immersive cocktail bar, known for its moody decor, over-the-top horror vibes, and cheeky drink names (past menus have included things like Closed Casket and Hellraiser), will take over Citizens Trust downtown this fall.
Described as “where mixology meets the macabre,” Black Lagoon isn’t your typical themed bar.
Imagine gothic chandeliers dripping in red light, cobweb-strewn corners, taxidermy, skulls, fog, and bartenders dressed like they just stepped out of a Hammer Horror flick — all serving Halloween-inspired cocktails you’ll be dying to try.
The pop-up first came to life in 2019 New Orleans and officially launched in 2021; now, creators Erin Hayes and Kelsey Ramage are unleashing it in 39 cities across the U.S. and Canada, making this their biggest season yet.
“We’re so excited to be back for another sinisterly fun year,” said co-founder Kelsey Ramage. “With new cities, more venues, and an entirely new menu of spooky-season cocktails, this year is sure to be the best one yet.”
Columbus joins the lineup alongside other newbies like Cincinnati, Milwaukee, Madison, Galveston, and Calgary, while longstanding fan favorites like NYC, LA, Chicago, and Vancouver return from the grave for another year.
Exact dates and cocktail menus are still under wraps, but expect Black Lagoon to run through October and into early November — just long enough for you to drag all your Halloween-loving friends (and maybe even a few skeptics) along.
Want to stay in the loop? Follow @blacklagoonpopup on Instagram or haunt their site at blacklagoonpopup.com for ticket drops and menu reveals.
Until then, maybe start planning your costume! This is one pop-up where you’ll absolutely want to dress to kill.
