A Fang-Tastic Evening Awaits: Anoka’s Annual Halloween Tasting Returns to Green Haven

A Fang-Tastic Evening Awaits: Anoka’s Annual Halloween Tasting Returns to Green Haven

ANOKA, Minn. — In the city known far and wide as the “Halloween Capital of the World,” October is never short on reasons to celebrate. Among the highlights is the Better Values Liquor Annual Halloween Tasting Event, returning on Thursday, Oct. 30, from 5:30–8:00 p.m. at the Green Haven Golf Course & Event Center (2800 Greenhaven Road, Anoka).

The tasting promises a spirited evening of seasonal sophistication, offering a “fang-tastic variety” of wines, craft beers, liquors, spirits, and even low-dose THC beverages. The sips will be paired with savory bites courtesy of the Tavern at Green Haven, with food trucks providing additional treats on-site. Guests will enjoy the festivities in Green Haven’s polished banquet space, set against the backdrop of its championship 18-hole golf course.

This adults-only (21+) gathering is part of Anoka’s extensive month-long Halloween festival, a tradition that stretches back more than a century. Advance tickets are encouraged and typically priced lower than the limited door sales available on the evening of the event.

Anoka: The Halloween Capital of the World

The tasting is more than just a casual gathering — it’s a nod to Anoka’s unique place in Halloween history. The city’s reputation as the nation’s Halloween Capital was cemented when Congress officially recognized the title, honoring a tradition that began in 1920.

That year, local business and civic leaders devised a plan to curb destructive pranks — from tipped outhouses to soap-covered windows and even the release of livestock onto Main Street. Their solution? A massive community celebration complete with a parade, music, and free treats. It worked so well that the festival became an annual tradition, pausing only in 1942 and 1943 during World War II.

Over the decades, Anoka’s festivities have grown to include multiple parades, costume contests, pumpkin expos, ghost tours, and the famous Grande Day Parade. The Halloween Tasting at Green Haven is a modern, adult-centered extension of that century-old spirit of celebration — a way for grown-ups to toast to the season while the city keeps Halloween magic alive for all ages.

Event Details

• What: Better Values Liquor Annual Halloween Tasting
• When: Thursday, Oct. 30 | 5:30–8:00 p.m.
• Where: Green Haven Golf Course & Event Center, 2800 Greenhaven Road, Anoka, MN
• Admission: Advance tickets recommended; limited door sales available
• Age: 21+ only

Whether you’re looking to swirl and sip fine wines, discover new craft brews, or simply soak up the Halloween spirit in the nation’s original Halloween city, Anoka’s tasting event promises an unforgettable evening.

MinneapoliMedia