When Flashback Weekend reconvened in 2021, the number of contestants in its annual costume contest surged. I understood with all the extra time some folks had in lockdown why that year went nuts, but there’s been no letup in the two years that’s followed. In fact, the 2023 event had so many adult contestants they couldn’t fit everyone on stage for judging. In the end, three separate groups were judged before a fourth round would be dedicated to the finalists.

With little time to spare, the child contestants took the stage almost as soon as Svengoolie did. They looked great but I sure hope they haven’t actually seen some of the films they’re representing.

Terrifier 1 & 2 was a big hit this year.

There were a couple girls dressed as M3GAN (2022) which was a horror hit after the previous Flashback Weekend – and both were well-versed in the killer AI’s signature dance moves.

Some were unique and over-the-top like Mitch O’Connell’s From Hell It Came (1957) Tabanga monster and some kid with a movie camera in place of his head. Despite having to remind Svengoolie of his character’s name several times, I  still can’t remember it myself (if you know, leave a comment).

Then it was time for all the kids to get back on stage for audience applause to determine the winner…

I really thought the Tabanga monster would win but it was the camera-headed kid who ended up taking top prize.

Now the adults…

It was bittersweet seeing someone dress up as Pee Wee Herman since the character’s alter ego, Paul Reubens, passed away just a week before.

One notable group of contestants was from SCREAM (1997). A guy in the group was dressed up like Drew Barrymore’s character with a squib in his fake breast. As soon as they reached center stage “Ghost Face” stabbed him/her releasing the fake blood.

And here are the three rounds of costumes up for judging…

And then the finalists…

In the end, the charismatic “Shaggy” and his equally buoyant “Scooby-Doo” took the top prize with Beetlejuice and Midsommar 2nd and 3rd.

With so many costumes to showcase, it was no wonder that almost all the celebrity guests had packed up for the day. In years past, Svengoolie could leave the contest and just interview one guest after another but this hasn’t happened since 2021. Thankfully, Joe Bob Briggs was still present and Sven was able to stop and say ‘Goodbye.’ I witnessed both legendary hosts invite each other to their shows and express their admiration for one another. Joe Bob also shared some updates on his SHUDDER TV program and, although it’s not my place to say what they were, suffice it to say “The Last Drive-in’s” future looks bright.

Not long after, I too said my ‘goodbyes’ to Svengoolie and crew before returning to my room to freshen up and prepare for the big Alan Howarth concert. And let me tell you, folks, it was memorable but not all for the right reasons. 

Coming up…that crazy Alan Howarth concert

Dave