From a quiz night to spooky-themed parties and film screenings, there are lots of reasons not to lock the doors this Halloween

If you think Halloween in Abu Dhabi is merely time to stock up on sweets for trick or treat visitors, you’re in for a shocking surprise. Here are some of the creepy goings on and ghastly get togethers taking place around the city.

Boo-tiful art

Design and Dine will land at the Novotel Abu Dhabi Gate’s rooftop for a live group painting session. Learn to paint a UAE landscape and enjoy unlimited ghostly food and drinks. AED 290. 26th October. 7pm-11pm. Contact: facebook.com/design.dine.ad

Cinema Space is screening the German classic horror flick Nosferatu The Vampyre on 28th October, 7pm. Scheduled on 30th October is the Japanese supernatural movie Ugetsu. Free but RSVP required. Manarat Al Saadiyat. Visit: cinemaspace-abudhabi.splashthat.com

Mini monsters

Spooktacular at Yas Waterworld will see ghoulish bandits try to wrestle control of the waterpark. Costume-wearing kids are called to stop the plot through an exciting treasure hunting adventure. AED 250. 27th October. Yas Island. 10am-10pm. Visit: yaswaterworld.com

A haunted maze, pumpkin carving demos, a costume parade – experience all these and more at Freaky Friday at Yas Marina. Plus, treats will be handed out to kids. Free. AED 30 for activities. 3rd November. Yas Island. 3pm-6.30pm. Visit: yasmarina.ae

Nightwalkers

The Rooftop in Aloft Al Ain will open its doors to party souls days before Halloween. Dance until dawn while clad in your scariest outfit for a chance to win cool prizes. 27th October. AED 100 includes two beverages. 7pm-2am. Contact: 03 713 8888

How to make your own boo cups

Give life to Halloween parties with these yummy and easy-to-make treats from Lana’s Partiperfect…

Ingredients: 1 cup sugar, 1/2 cup baking cocoa, 1/4 cup cornstarch, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 4 cups milk, 2 tablespoons butter, 2 tablespoons vanilla extract, crushed Oreo cookies, whipped cream, chocolate chips for the eyes.

Directions: Combine sugar, cocoa, cornstarch and salt in a saucepan. Gradually add milk and bring to a boil. Add a layer of Oreo crumbs, then chocolate pudding, then another layer of crumbs. Chill in the fridge. Top with whipped cream and chocolate chip eyes.

WORDS Ferdinand Godinez