Beacon Hill's 10-foot skeletons draw crowds and criticism

Ten-foot-tall skeletons and hanging ghosts dominate the brownstone balconies of Beacon Hill. These massive decorations have turned the neighborhood into a primary destination for Halloween visitors. The displays have captured the attention of locals and online spectators alike. A specific butterfly-themed installation has become a particular viral sensation on the internet.

Beacon Hill Civic Association hosts a celebration on Saturday evening. The event will feature a mix of scary and fun attractions for attendees. Residents like Max Marchetti welcome the influx of outsiders. He noted that the neighborhood becomes a magnet for people from outside the city during this period.

However, the neighborhood’s reputation for over-the-top decor sparks debate among long-time inhabitants. Betsy Peterson, an 88-year-old resident, described the displays as a spectacle. She called the effort a waste of money. Peterson expressed concern over the environmental impact of the temporary props. She noted that the items are likely destined for a landfill after the holiday.

Despite her reservations, Peterson acknowledged the festive atmosphere during the day. Children play in the streets, and neighbors sit on stoops with pumpkins. She described the daytime scene as wonderful, though she warned that the area becomes crowded as the night progresses. Other residents view the decorations as a source of joy for children.

Bridgett Quinn said her son enjoys looking at the elaborate setups. She observed that the decorations become more intricate every year. Quinn mentioned that her family goes through large amounts of candy during the season. She expressed happiness that the displays bring joy to young visitors.

In the days leading up to Halloween, the neighborhood has been busy with photographers. Families and young adults have lined up to capture images of the decorated doorsteps. Many visitors, including Boston University student Laura Leal, specifically traveled to the area for social media content. Leal and her friends posed in front of the stoops to post photos on Instagram.

The Beacon Hill Civic Association’s event is scheduled for Saturday evening. The celebration will coincide with the peak of the seasonal decor. Visitors can expect to see the full extent of the neighborhood’s Halloween preparations at that time.