Category: Travel

entertainment, Events, History, Travel

Inside the Haunted Encounters Tour Aboard the Queen Mary

by Jennifer Vasquez22 Comments on Inside the Haunted Encounters Tour Aboard the Queen Mary
Vamp Jenn aboard the Queen Mary
Vamp Jenn aboard the Queen Mary

When the world practically shut down in 2020, so did the Queen Mary. The historic liner was already in need of major repairs, and even when establishments began to open their doors for business, her royal highness remained closed. I’ve kept a close eye on updates regarding the vessel, and it’s undergone not only significant renovations and maintenance but also a change in management, putting complete control back in the hands of the city of Long Beach, CA.

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entertainment, Events, holidays, Lifestyle, Nightlife, Travel

Odd & Macabre Events 2023

by Jennifer Vasquez12 Comments on Odd & Macabre Events 2023
Vamp Jenn at Midsummer Scream
Vamp Jenn at Midsummer Scream

It’s 2023, and one can’t help but marvel at all the upcoming spooky and dark-filled delights the new year has awaiting in the shadows, ready to come forth and lure people in. Vamp Jenn’s Corner has established a tradition around here releasing its annual Odd & Macabre Events Calendar in January. I’ve scoured the beyond to find the most magical experiences slated to happen in the coming months, so you can all set dates and plan outings. Of course, I hope to attend as many of these events as I can as well.

The offerings featured here are taking place in Los Angeles and across the U.S., but I am trying to add events happening internationally too. What follows is what’s been announced thus far, but new activities continue to come up as the year goes on. I also include spooky holidays and special occasions. I will be updating this calendar throughout 2023, so make sure to check back often. Cheers to a New Year of the most sinister escapades yet!   

Continue reading “Odd & Macabre Events 2023” →
entertainment, Events, Lifestyle, Nightlife, Travel

Odd & Macabre Events 2022

by Jennifer Vasquez8 Comments on Odd & Macabre Events 2022
Universal Studios Hollywood Halloween Horror Nights
Vamp Jenn at Universal Studios Hollywood Halloween Horror Nights

It’s the start of a new year, which means it’s time to release my annual Odd & Macabre Events Calendar for 2022! Unlike the past two years, there are quite a few venues that have already announced dates for upcoming festivities. My fingers are crossed that these will all take place. As always, I’m going to attend as much as I can. Activities are slowly popping up, and I’ll continually be updating this post, so make sure to check back for new additions.

Although I’m based near Los Angeles, I’m doing my best to include things that are happening in other parts of the globe. Who wouldn’t want to discover spooky adventures occurring in their neck of the woods? Some of what you’ll find here include the first-ever Satanic convention, vampire soirees, immersive shows, dark art exhibits, virtual gatherings and more. Cheers to another year filled with chills and thrills!

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entertainment, Events, Lifestyle, Travel

100 Days ‘til Halloween Guide

by Jennifer Vasquez12 Comments on 100 Days ‘til Halloween Guide
Halloween decorating

The 100-day mark to Halloween is a magical occasion, and that milestone is happening on July 23rd. If you haven’t started planning for spooky season, now is the time. I decided to create a special blog post to help you prepare. View it as an All Hallows Eve guide if you will.

Here’s a snapshot of what I’ll be sharing:

  • Where to shop for Halloween goods
  • My costume predictions
  • Halloween events & more

Let the Halloween countdown festivities begin!

Continue reading “100 Days ‘til Halloween Guide” →
Art, Travel

9 Dark Art Galleries in Los Angeles You Need to Visit

by Jennifer Vasquez21 Comments on 9 Dark Art Galleries in Los Angeles You Need to Visit
Dark art on display at Dark Art Emporium in Long Beach, California

Before the pandemic hit, I could often be found taking in the latest dark art exhibits happening local to me. In fact, when I started Vamp Jenn’s Corner in 2018, I was covering dark art frequently on my blog because every month there was always a new exhibit happening. It was no surprise that in-person art events largely ceased for more than a year starting in 2020, but when restrictions began lifting in the City of Angels, spaces excitedly reopened their doors and welcomed patrons to admire the macabre works of gifted artists up close again.

For those whose artistic tastes lean towards the grotesque, bizarre and otherworldly, then the following dark art galleries in Los Angeles will tickle your fancy. I’ve paid a visit to most of these establishments and look forward to continuing to cover future art shows. Here is a selection of L.A. dark art galleries you need to visit if you find yourself in the area.

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Events, Lifestyle, Travel

Odd & Macabre Events 2021

by Jennifer Vasquez6 Comments on Odd & Macabre Events 2021
At the Phantom Carriage Brewery

Wow, so I don’t think I’m alone when I say that 2020 was not what I expected. When I published my Odd & Macabre Los Angeles Events Calendar last year, I had no clue that most of the activities I included would either be cancelled or happen virtually. And it seems that may be the case for this year as well. But that’s okay because if anything, 2020 proved that there is fun to be had even when undergoing a lockdown; there are still experiences we can enjoy while at home.

So, my Odd & Macabre Events Calendar is slightly different this year. There are more virtual experiences and some events that I’m not completely certain are taking place, but are scheduled to happen. Most are based in Los Angeles, California, but I’ll also be including any online experiences I discover happening internationally since these activities are accessible to a wider audience. I also threw in a few special dates that relate to horror, esotericism and the macabre. I will be updating this continually throughout the year as news of more events pop up, and I hope I can continue to provide you with entertaining features in 2021!

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Film, Lifestyle, Travel

Spotlight on Malia Miglino of Macabre Mondays

by Jennifer Vasquez6 Comments on Spotlight on Malia Miglino of Macabre Mondays
Photo Credit: Chelsea Curtis

Cemeteries, history, death, the paranormal and plenty of delicious wine are just some of the elements that make Macabre Mondays so alluring. Meet Malia Miglino, the woman behind this creative endeavor that highlights the dark side of centuries past. She hosts, researches, writes and produces the material for her episodes, and, let me tell you, her charisma immediately draws you in.

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Dining & Drink, Events, Film, Lifestyle, Literature, music, Travel

The Undead Way to Celebrate Dracula Day

by Jennifer Vasquez27 Comments on The Undead Way to Celebrate Dracula Day

From left to right: Bram Stoker, Vlad Tepes and Bela Lugosi as Dracula
From left to right: Bram Stoker, Vlad Tepes and Bela Lugosi as Dracula

On May 26th, 1897, Bram Stoker’s notorious novel Dracula was published. More than a century later, the vampire tale has indeed proven to be as immortal as its protagonist. There have been films, TV shows, music, books, art and entertainment events inspired by the Count. Stoker’s work has left such an indelible mark on, not just the literary world, but the creative world in general that there is a day dedicated to it—Dracula Day. There are many ways to celebrate and following you will find ideas for how to throw a fangtastic vampire soiree, whether alone or with others! Continue reading “The Undead Way to Celebrate Dracula Day” →

Dining & Drink, Nightlife, Travel

Best Macabre Dining Experiences in Los Angeles

by Jennifer Vasquez10 Comments on Best Macabre Dining Experiences in Los Angeles
Photo by Aphiwat Chuangchoem

Options for wining and dining in Los Angeles are abundant, but what if you like your main entrée served with a side of horror and a dash of devilish spice? From frightful feasts and witchy lounges to haunted bars, there are plenty of spots that will satisfy cravings for ghoulish delights. To aid you on your quest, I’ve rounded up a list of some of the best macabre dining experiences in Los Angeles. Bon(e) Appetit!

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Events, Lifestyle, Travel

Odd & Macabre Los Angeles Events 2020

by Jennifer Vasquez3 Comments on Odd & Macabre Los Angeles Events 2020

INRI: Lasciate ogne speranza, voi ch'intrate
INRI: Lasciate ogne speranza, voi ch’intrate

Note: Due to the current Coronavirus pandemic, many upcoming events have been cancelled. Some will possibly be rescheduled for later in the year and others are offering virtual alternatives. I’ll update this calendar as more information becomes available.

It’s officially the beginning of a new year and decade! The year 2019 was definitely one for the books. I discovered new places and experiences, obtained more forbidden knowledge and connected with many creative people. I’m excited to check out the dark adventures that await to share them with all of you.

This list is a work in progress and I’ll continue to add to it as I find out about more affairs. I hope to attend most and, if you’re in the area, let this serve as a fun, spooky guide of things to do while in and around Los Angeles. So, without further ado, here’s a look at upcoming Odd & Macabre Los Angeles Events in 2020. Continue reading “Odd & Macabre Los Angeles Events 2020” →