Slasher summer is finally here. The days are filled with camp-themed horror movies, nostalgic ‘80s arcades, bonfires, county fairs, and final girls running for their lives. If you’re someone who celebrates, or just looking for an excuse to mix in some spookiness to your date night, Orange County has plenty of options to make it a night(mare) to remember.
I took my husband on a spooky date night that started in Irvine and ended in Costa Mesa, with camp-themed cocktails, axe throwing, ‘90s movie theater nostalgia, and a bonus Halloween stop for good measure. Here’s everything we did and what I’d recommend if you want to plan your own slasher summer date night.
Cozy Pines Speakeasy
Start your night at Cozy Pines, a hidden speakeasy tucked inside Bacchus Bar & Bistro. Picture woodsy cabin complete with trees, animals, wood seating, a sasquatch, and a menu full of drinks that feel perfectly on-theme for a camp slasher flick.
I had the Apex Predator, which was so good I’ve been trying (and failing) to recreate it at home ever since. My husband ordered the Camp Anawanna, which comes with an actual toasted marshmallow on top. It’s a stiff drink, so just know what you’re getting into if you’re more of a sweet cocktail person.
The space is tiny, both in how many seats there are and how close together everything feels, so definitely make a reservation if you’re planning your date ahead. They have a small menu of light bites if you want something to snack on while you sip.
Slashers Axe Throwing and Ales
Once you’re fueled up, head about 12 minutes down the road (assuming it’s not rush hour) to Slashers Axe Throwing and Ales. I’d seen plenty of photos and videos of this place, but nothing really does the theming justice. It’s next-level.
The decor feels like haunted woods, with camp benches and lanterns behind the lanes. Make sure to check out the hallway leading to the restrooms, it’s lined with movie posters and the axes that made them famous. There’s a bar if you get there early or want to hang out after your throwing session. I definitely recommend building in some extra time to check out all of the details.
When your lane is ready, an employee (aka camp counselor) will walk you through the rules and give you some tips so you don’t embarrass yourself too much. We booked an hour, but could have easily done two more if we didn’t have a movie to get to.
Halloween Bootique
After you’ve worked up a sweat (and maybe a little competitive banter), head just down the street (less than half a mile away!) to Triangle Square. If you have time before your movie, pop into the Halloween Bootique.
This place is huge, like warehouse-sized, and open year-round. You’ll find costumes, makeup, props, and an entire section of animatronics in the back left corner that feels like getting a little Halloween fix in the middle of summer. Even if you’re not shopping, it’s fun to look around and daydream about October.
Starlight Triangle Cinemas
When it’s time for your movie, head upstairs to Starlight Triangle Cinemas. This theater still has all its early-‘90s charm with pink and purple neon lights, old-school carpet, and that feeling like you’re about to watch Scream on opening weekend.
They have upgraded to recliner seats and started serving beer and wine, so you can settle in comfortably. It’s the perfect spot to end your spooky date with a horror movie!
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning a spooky date night around Orange County, our night out had a bit of everything: good drinks, fun activities, nostalgic theater vibes, and a little bit of camp-y spookiness in every moment.
If you’ve been to any of these spots or have other recommendations, let me know, I’m always looking for spooky things to do!