November 2, 2026

12th Annual Halloween Gala Recap

Take us back in time! Our 12th Annual Halloween Gala was one for the history books! This year's theme: “Time Traveler’s Ball: An Evening for the Ages” transported guests through the past, with each room of the estate transformed into a different decade, destination, or moment in history.

Located just north of Boston, Willowdale Estate is known for its rich history, lavish grounds, and timeless architecture. During the gala, every corner of the mansion comes alive with creative costumes, vibrant energy, and spooky décor. 

The Foyer entrance set the clocks spinning as guests explored Ancient Crypts, the Ice Age, Neon Arcades, Prehistoric Jungles, a Medieval Dining Room with a gargoyle lurking, and even stopped to sip espresso martinis in our Library Saloon or Garden Courtyard Speakeasy. 

Meanwhile, the tent launched guests towards an Intergalactic Utopian Future with an interstellar dance floor, dazzling disco balls and balloon design, and the party spilling into Garden Courtyard, and back in time to our picture-perfect portrait spot under the pergola.

From the distant past to infinity and beyond, it was a night to remember! 

The timeless talent and creativity of our incredible collaborators and event professionals made this night possible. We are forever grateful to everyone who helped bring this iconic  party to life! 

⏳ Event Design & Catering: Willowdale Estate @willowdaleestate
🪩 Band: Hot Mess Boston @hotmessboston
📸 Event Photography: Dan Aguirre Photography @danaguirrephotography
🎞️ Event Portraits: Ebersole Photography @ebersolephoto
✨ Lighting Design: Ryan Designs @ryandesignsri
🎈 Balloon Installations: Fig Balloon Co. @figballoonco
🚐 Shuttles: Black Tie Limousine @graceblacktielimousine
🎉 Furniture: Party Excitement @partyexcitement
👹Gargoyle: TEN31 @wemakepretend
🏰 Giveaway Partner and Special Guest: @ashleyg.explores
🛍️  Costume Contest Sponsors: Briar Barn Inn @briarbarninn, and Atomic Coffee Roasters @atomiccoffeeroasters

 

Stone cottages decorated with Christmas lights under a cloudy night sky.
Elegant event hall with hanging lights, balloons, and a large metallic balloon sculpture.
Cosplayer in silver armor with a large blue wristwatch at a festive indoor event.
Warm, wood-paneled dining room with fireplace, floral decor, and patterned rug
Purple neon game controller sign on a wooden cabinet beside paper towels and a drink dispenser.
Antique clock and brass instruments displayed on a blue-covered table in a dark room.
Person in a colorful striped costume and red boots at a festive party.
Vintage lamp beside a closed notice on a table against a brick wall.
DJ in green wig and glasses performs at a neon-lit nightclub.
People carry a mock boat labeled “MA DUCIBI2” at a nighttime parade.
Elegant boutique display with draped fabrics, a bed, and warm string lights.
Three women in costumes pose beside a mummy and pyramid backdrop.
Dimly lit ornate room with glowing candles, a small Buddha statue, and blue flowers.
Woman in black armor holding a sword, with a flowing red cloak in a forest.
Server carrying a wooden tray of bite-sized appetizers at a party.
Woman in red sequined dress and men in top hats at a festive party
Cosplayer in red and white costume holding a clear drink cup outdoors.
Guests at a festive indoor party with streamers and a disco ball.
Three women in elaborate costumes pose in a warmly lit brick room.
Singer performing with a band on a neon-lit stage.
Couple in formal attire smiling at a nighttime party with string lights
Colorful clothing market stall with disco balls and string lights at dusk.
Crowd in colorful wigs and costumes at a festive nighttime party.
Costumed group posing with silver balloons at a party.
Woman in colorful striped dress poses with a man in a furry costume at a party.
Three women in festive costumes pose at a colorful party backdrop.
Crowd dancing and cheering at a colorful nightclub party.
Six women in ornate gothic and red dresses pose in a woodland setting.
Portrait of a couple in ornate Renaissance-style costumes in a sunlit garden.
Astronaut and silver-haired woman in a metallic purple dress pose outdoors.
Three adults in colorful retro outfits pose outdoors, one holding a small dog.
Fantasy couple in white costumes with glowing crowns in a sunlit garden
Cozy outdoor patio with tables, string lights, and brick fireplace at dusk.
1/

Article Categories