Named for David Bowie's Goblin King in Jim Henson's final feature film, Labyrinth, Labyrinth of Jareth is a two-night masquerade ball combining Venetian tradition with fantastic tales. Faeries will twirl and waltz on the dance floor. Elfin guests peek out of corners. Armored knights parade through the halls. As for the goblins, they have their own encampment — enter if you dare! Now in its 17th year, Labyrinth of Jareth is a must-attend event for costumers. You'll see everything from plague doctors to Victorian aristocrats to cyberpunk fare here. The ballgowns shimmer. The headwear is more outrageous than anything seen at a royal wedding. The makeup looks as if it came out of a Peter Jackson movie. For the past few years, the ball has taken over Park Plaza, a sprawling, vintage venue near MacArthur Park. It's the perfect place for a masquerade, with multiple ballrooms and an immense staircase meant for grand entrances. Labyrinth of Jareth is a proper masquerade; you have to wear a themed costume, or formalwear with a mask, to attend the event. If your friends can't recognize you, you're doing it right. Park Plaza, 607 S. Park View St., Westlake; Fri., July 4-Sat., July 5; doors open at 8 p.m.; $49 (Friday only), $57 (Saturday only), $101 (both nights); labyrinthmasquerade.com.

Fri., July 4, 8 p.m.; Sat., July 5, 8 p.m., 2014
(Expired: 07/05/14)

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