Halloween party at Ricky's house in the 1980s

Halloween at Ricky's house was a night to remember.

Costumes, food, decorations, drinks, and good friends made for a great party.

This party was at Ricky's old house on Gainesville Highway in 1984. Beth and I helped decorate the place but we didn't have a big budget -- most of our money went for food and liquor. I did not get many pictures, just a few shots early in the night. As the party went on, I forgot all about my camera.

Hugo and Sue dressed up like KISS vampires.

They won the prize for best costume. I loved the chain, the cape with red lining, and their make up.

KISS vampires

KISS was popular at this time. Fake blood, loud music, and platform shoes were a thing.

Looking at these pictures, I can't help but notice the floral wallpaper. They don't make it like that anymore.

Queen of Hearts

I know I had a head piece around there somewhere -- or at least a hat!

Dancing up a storm

Joanne was an Indian Princess. Mike watched from the couch.

Shannon and Joe in purple

Shannon was the Mad Hatter and Joe was a pirate. Vintage clothes made the best costumes -- unless you wanted to spend the whole day sewing.

Carolyn was a witch.

Look at that hair -- it is down to her hips.

Terri was also a witch.

She wore a hat, a choir robe, and short shorts. We were all having fun at Ricky's Halloween party. Before the night was over, over 50 people had joined us.

Drinking and dancing the night away

I don't know what look Mark and Denise were going for -- maybe scary clown and court jester.

Linda with a mixed drink and a cigarette

Her expression was either sad or angry. Maybe she just needed some blood.

Ricky glued real hair to his face and hands.

Ricky made a good werewolf. Where did he get that hair? Off of his own head? Off of a dog? Maybe he raided a local beauty salon.

Look at that old wood paneling and the painted door. That paint was given out after the war to people for free. It was called Battleship Gray but as time went on it turned Army Green.

I know because we have the same paint here on the old home place.

Beth was a gypsy.

Beth and I were roommates for a while after I split up with Joe. Our landlord offered to take favors instead of rent money. Beth cussed him out and he never did that again. She was a brave woman that didn't shrink from conflict.