Spooky diversions: Tractor Brewery Wells Park hosts Stranger Things Arcade Carnival & Bazaar

Journey into the Upside Down with ’80s beats and spooky diversions.

The popular Stranger Things Arcade Carnival & Bazaar is back for its sixth year at Tractor Brewing Company-Wells Park, 1800 Fourth St. NW. The alternate dimension event takes place from 7 p.m. to midnight on Saturday, Oct. 28.

“It’s just a staple,” said Jeremy Kinter, events and marketing director for Tractor. “I’ve been doing it for so long people expect it. They’re like when is Stranger Things happening? It’s not if Stranger Things is happening, so that’s always pretty nice.”

This year’s event will feature more than 15 arcade games that are free to play. Screen print artists, Jon Sanchez and Jeremy Montoya, will be printing a special poster for the event.

A tarot card reader will provide insight on eventgoers’ lives. Magician Dave Grimm will marvel audiences with his sleight of hand illusions.

Get in line for a spanking at the Self Serve Sexuality Resource Center booth.

“Of course the most popular booth is the spanking booth put on by Self Serve,” Kinter said. “… They are super professional and they are so good at running their booth. They know what to do. They’re very safe. I wouldn’t have anyone else running their booth. I’ve been working with them for six years. I think they’re just the best to work with.”

DJ Riff Rat opens the event with ’80s tunes to keep with the “Stranger Things” theme. Outside on the patio, local bands will take the stage to perform covers of iconic bands.

More than 10 spooky vendors, curated by Spectral Youth, will be on hand selling their eerie wares including T-shirts, earrings, posters, cards, beauty products and candles.

A full-size Demogorgon created by a local artist will be on hand for guests to admire.

“We have an artist (that is) doing an art installation, and they’re doing a full-size Demogorgan so people can take pictures with that beautiful piece,” Kinter said. “It came out really good.”

Tickets for this age 21 and older event are $12, plus fees, and available at holdmyticket.com.

The Wells Park location continues the macabre vibe during its Goth Night & Dark Market: Gothsgiving Edition at 8 p.m. on Nov. 10.

DJ Riff Rat and Sordid Sorcerer will be spinning sinister songs with Pepe El Monstrito providing sound. Local vendors curated by Spectral Youth will also be on hand.

“We’re celebrating Thanksgiving as it was intended to be celebrated, with black pumpkins and dark music,” according to Tractor’s event page. “Time to break out your Doc Martens, black nail polish, eyeliner, and choker, because we’re hosting a night of beautiful music for you dark hearts.”