As advertised on this nifty poster, designed and printed by the Works Progress Administration.
I couldn’t find anything on the skating carnival slated for October 31st. But a New York Times blurb that ran in the October 30th edition of the paper advertised a Halloween costume contest on the Mall, to be held that night.
“Prizes will be awarded for the funniest boy’s costume, prettiest girl’s costume, most unusual costumes and the most appropriate costumes,” the item reads.
Strange that they don’t mention scariest costume. Sounds like the city was trying to provide some wholesome fun for kids who would otherwise be tempted to pull the usual pranks and mischief that make Halloween such a thrilling holiday when you’re young.
Tags: Central Park activities, Central Park on Halloween, Halloween in New York City, Halloween in the 1930s, Halloween Roller-Skating Carnival, New York City in the 1930s, Works Progress Administration
October 14, 2009 at 9:51 am |
I wonder what does “most appropriate costume” mean? Did they have risque dressers back then? And 1936 was pre-War with lots of floozies high-steppin’ it… The imagination boggles…
October 14, 2009 at 11:47 am |
“Did they have risque dressers back then?”
i’ve seen movies from the 30s with women in basically transparent outfits for party wear. bit cold for that tho’ in october?
great poster, quite modern looking.
October 14, 2009 at 12:11 pm |
Great poster!
October 14, 2009 at 2:09 pm |
It is great, very 1930s. And strangely un-Halloween. It’s like the artist was told to stay away from anything orange and black.
October 19, 2009 at 3:04 am |
Even the pumpkin-head — note the stem on top — is not orange but brown. And what’s with what I assume is a carrot nose? It’s as if the artist was looking forward to the next season and crossed the pumpkin man with a snowman. But I love it! Another neat find, Wildnewyork! Thanks!
October 19, 2009 at 3:07 am |
Thanks Pizza. Those WPA artists were very subversive y’know!
October 29, 2012 at 2:28 am |
[...] it looks like the carnival is geared toward adults, this poster for the same Halloween event clearly has kids in mind. I’d love to know what the prizes [...]