If you’re already counting down the days until October, we have some killer news to hold you over. The nationally acclaimed cocktail pop-up, Black Lagoon, is officially returning for its 2026 North American tour—and it’s transforming Fort Worth’s beloved Nickel City FTW into a dark, immersive Halloween haven.
Dreamed up by mixology legends and industry veterans Erin Hayes and Kelsey Ramage, this limited-time takeover has been praised by Food & Wine, PUNCH, and the Los Angeles Times. Now, it’s set to become Cowtown’s absolute must-visit destination this fall.
Goth-Glam Meets Craft Cocktails
Forget the cheesy plastic spiders and fake cobwebs. Black Lagoon is known for completely stripping away a venue’s everyday identity and replacing it with a full-blown cinematic experience. Nickel City FTW is trading its laid-back neighborhood vibe for a heavy-metal, dark-gothic sanctuary.
Expect a multi-sensory haunted house meets cocktail bar atmosphere, complete with Immersive, spine-chilling decor, cinematic lighting and soundscapes, and a moody, theatrical aesthetic.
“Every year, we look for new ways to expand the world of Black Lagoon and create a spooky attraction that goes beyond a traditional Halloween pop-up,” say Co-Founders Hayes and Ramage.
Pick your poison
At the bleeding heart of the Black Lagoon experience is a world-class, ingredient-driven cocktail menu crafted exclusively for the event. The drinks pair theatrical presentations with premium spirits. While the full 2026 menu is still heavily guarded, a few choice potions have been unearthed for Fort Worth locals to look forward to: Abyssa’s Obsession, Bone Temple, and Moon Shadow.
Nickel City FTW will be slinging drinks in exclusive, limited-edition custom glassware by artist Kisira Hill, alongside the brand-new Abyssa the Octo-Witch Mug created in collaboration with Tiki Farm, all available for purchase.
When and where is Black Lagoon in DFW
While officials haven’t revealed the official opening date, the multi-week activation kicks off right here in Fort Worth in late September and will run all the way through the Halloween season. Stay tuned for more details!
