Magic City Witches Ball returns for 2nd year to WorkPlay

When Books, Beans & Candles started throwing the Magic City Witches Ball 15 years ago, they had no idea it would become as big as it is today.

“It was a little local, small community party, and now we have anywhere from 1,500 to 2,000 people,” Books, Beans & Candles owner Mitchell Hagood said. 

Because of its huge popularity over the years, it’s become one of Birmingham’s biggest Halloween parties and will be held at WorkPlay for the second year. This year’s event will be Oct. 20 from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m.

The Witches Ball, which is centered around costumes, drinks and dancing, charges an entrance fee of $10 to be donated to Lone Warriors, a local organization that uses photography to support veterans with PTSD.

Hagood said Books, Beans & Candles fully decorates the venue with a new theme each year. Past themes have included Harry Potter, The Night Before Christmas and Dracula, and this year’s event will be pirate-themed. 

A costume contest will be at 11 p.m. and will include prizes. There will be live music, a DJ, food trucks, drink specials and other activities. The event is for people ages 21 years and older.

Books, Beans & Candles is a metaphysical and holistic coffee shop located on 1620 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. S. To buy tickets for the event, go to workplay.com/event/witches-ball-2018.