Due to strict rules and regulations from city officials, Isla Vista is transformed into a ghost town for Halloween. Students escape to other schools in search of ways to properly celebrate Halloweekend, rendering the high-spirited beach town spirit-less.

“I.V. Halloween,” as it is called by students, takes place the weekend prior. Gauchos grouped together and turned Del Playa into a costume show on Oct. 21, walking the pavement decked in tutus and jumpsuits. The following collection of pictures captures this Gaucho-created holiday. 

Students took to Isla Vista donning impeccable costumes, huge smiles and excitement for the night’s festivities. (Shiuan Cheng / Daily Nexus)

Outfits ranged from subtle to jaw(s)-dropping hilarious. (Shiuan Cheng / Daily Nexus)

Grocery store shelves made it to the streets as well. Taco shells and ketchup bottles roamed the streets, offering a delicious and tasty take on Halloween. (Shiuan Cheng / Daily Nexus)

Outside large parties, students connected with one another, excitedly posing for pictures to document the memorable night. (Shiuan Cheng / Daily Nexus)

I.V. Halloween is another unique facet of the Gaucho community. No other college town would have a priest, dinosaur and a referee wandering around on Oct. 21. (Shiuan Cheng / Daily Nexus)

 

In honor of I.V. Halloween, Artsweek held a costume contest for students to submit their creative costumes. Congratulations to our winner, Ella Bailey!

Bailey dressed in 1960s mod fashion. (Courtesy of Ella Bailey)

Bailey’s second costume was inspired by Daisy Jones from the 2023 miniseries “Daisy Jones & The Six.” (Courtesy of Ella Bailey)

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