For the vertically-challenged who are forced to derive entertainment from staring at the backs of strangers’ heads at the Halloween Parade (I speak from experience), imbibing pre-festivities is essential. Instead of heading out to the Pour House to fist-pump with washed-up frat boys, I recommend some of these tasty, fall-inspired booze options from Liqurious: Liqurious: pumpkin & gingerbread cocktail and spiked apple cider.

As for munchies, here’s a list of sugary and/or pumpkin-infused goodies featured at restaurants throughout the city:

• Treats Truck serves Halloween cupcakes
• Delicious pumpkin scone at Alice’s Tea Cup
• Pumpkin cake at Two Little Red Hens
• Farmer’s Market pumpkins and other fall produce
• Friend of a Farmer serves pumpkin pancakes 
• Jack-o-lantern donuts at Krispy Kreme

Photo: Flickr courtesy of cardamom