The Dalles Falls Under a Witch’s Spell: Weekend Masquerade and Walk Bring Magic Downtown
By Joshuah Albert
The Dalles, Ore., Oct. 20, 2025 — The Dalles cast its spell this weekend as witches, warlocks, and masked revelers filled both the Sunshine Mill and downtown streets for a pair of enchanting events — the 10th Annual Witches Walk and the inaugural Witches Masquerade Ball.
A Night of Magic at the Sunshine Mill
The Sunshine Mill Artisan Plaza and Winery was nearly unrecognizable Saturday night, transformed into a candlelit lair of music, mystery, and masquerade for the First Annual Witches Masquerade Ball.
Hosted by The Dalles Witches Walk organizers, the 21-and-over event shimmered with gothic elegance. Guests arrived in elaborate gowns, cloaks, and horned masks, some resembling shadowy spirits, others glittering like forest queens. Beneath the industrial arches of the old mill, laughter echoed between the pillars as live music filled the air and couples took to the dance floor.
Local food trucks and bartenders kept the cauldrons bubbling with wine, cocktails, and beer, while the night unfolded like a spell well-cast — sophisticated, spirited, and brimming with community magic. Organizers said the ball’s debut exceeded expectations and promised it will return next year, even bigger and more bewitching.
Witches Take Flight Downtown
On Saturday, downtown The Dalles transformed into a lively coven as hundreds of witches paraded down East Second Street for the 10th Annual Witches Walk.
The celebration began with the traditional broomstick parade in front of Route 30, where costumed participants marched, cackled, and waved to cheering onlookers. From there, the witches roamed from shop to shop, collecting stamps on their “Witches Walk” passports while local businesses joined in with candy, discounts, and decorations.
Each hour brought a new round of broomstick dancing — a spirited routine that’s become a highlight of the event — with performers dressed in black lace, striped stockings, and pointed hats. The rhythmic stomps and swirling skirts brought cheers from the crowd, adding to the atmosphere that lasted well into the night.
A Town Under a Happy Hex
By the end of the weekend, The Dalles had fully embraced its witchy side. From the elegance of the Masquerade Ball to the joyful chaos of the Walk, the events wove together like twin spells — one whispered, one shouted — celebrating community, creativity, and the season’s mischievous charm.
As twilight settled over the Columbia River Gorge, it was clear the town wasn’t just visited by witches — it became one.
Support Local News!
Available for Everyone; Funded by Readers.
