Sat update: Big Chisca news, Halloween parties, make a keg out of a pumpkin

This was going to be an all-Halloween party post, but I have to lead off with something else because it’s HUGE NEWS that is great for Downtown Memphis. As of yesterday, the Chisca Hotel is no longer owned by COGIC. The investor group that plans to renovate the hotel into apartments and retail is the new official owner. There will be a celebration at the Chisca at 2 PM today. CONGRATULATIONS and THANK YOU to the investors, the Downtown Memphis Commission, and everyone else involved with preserving this historic hotel where “That’s All Right Mama” was first played.

So, in a span of two days, we’ve ensured the Grizzlies will be in Memphis for the long haul and saved the Chisca. I’d say this has been a pretty good week for Downtown Memphis.

The Halloween party weekend Downtown continues tonight. Probably the biggest and best of the parties is at the Flying Saucer. They are having a Dead Rock Star Ball. The party starts at 8, and you can buy a beer from their Mystery Beer Tub for only $2. Whatever you pull out of the tub, you have to drink! At 9:30 Red Letter Day takes the stage – that’s right, for this special occasion they’re bringing live music back. For the first time I can remember, there is NO COVER for anyone. Previously, you got in free to the Saucer’s Halloween parties if you showed your U.F.O. Club card. This year, you don’t need to show anything other than an ID to the doorman, and you’re in.

You don’t have to follow the dead rock star theme, but if you do, your chances of winning a prize in their costume contest will be better. They’ll do the contests while the band is on break, and will be giving away $500 in cash and prizes. 75 beers on tap, another 125 in bottles, beer flights, beer mixers, pool, darts, the Beer Goddesses dressed up in costume. Of the parties going on tonight, the Saucer is my top pick.

The Silly Goose will have the first of two Halloween parties tonight. Their Saturday party will feature a costume contest where you can win Goose cash. DJ Cody will provide the music. There will be another Goose party on Wednesday that will be more Fireball-centric, for those who are a fan of the cinnamon whisky.

Also, I don’t know exactly what’s happening at the Brass Door, but I see they pulled a permit to have a party in the alley tonight.

If you’re hosting a house party of your own tonight or Wednesday for Halloween, here’s a video that shows you how to make a keg out of a pumpkin.

About to head to South Main to watch the Hogs play the South’s biggest embarrassment, Ole Miss. No cover at Max’s Sports Bar. Best plan is to come from the east to get in quickly. Kickoff is 11:21.