There are two kinds of people in this world: those who believe in ghosts and those who do not. Whichever side you’re on, there’s a hostess dying to meet you on the rooftop of Sorry Gorgeous for its first-ever Halloween pop-up bar, The Last Dance, from October 15 through October 31. The space transforms into Sorry GOREgeous, a liminal world, caught between the living and the dead, where sophisticated cocktails are crafted and after-hours DJs play music fit to make the dead rise.
The Last Dance is based on the legend of a glamorous party host who mysteriously died before hosting an extravagant party. She believed the party could spark a moment of connection, whether through dance, a kiss, or even love. However, the party went on without her, and its festive spirit still lives on today, suspended between two worlds. Although you might not see her, she is always around, in the elaborate details that surround the space and in the welcoming presence you feel as you enter.
The Sorry Gorgeous pop-up will feature an exclusive cocktail menu, small bites, immersive decor as well as a lineup of late-night DJs. Each cocktail reveals the stories of those who have passed through, those who linger and those who never left.
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The cocktail menu reads like a guest book, paying homage to those who have once passed through and a new discovery for those just stepping inside. The front cover unveils a message from the former host, followed by the story behind each drink. If you’re looking for a long-lost love, try The Dorian, named after a man who slipped into the night and was never seen again by his love. Sounds like not everything changes with time. The drink features Condesa Prickly Pear and Orange Blossom Gin, La Marca Prosecco, Pear, Baking Spice and lemon for a light and refreshing sip.
If you dare to venture into bolder flavors, Sorry Gorgeous bartender Erin recommends The Felix, a punchy, fruity blend of Mount Gay Rum, pandan, ube, coconut, pear, vanilla and lime–or The Beatrice, which features an unconventional carrot juice base, Wild Turkey Rye, Biscotti, cinnamon, cocoa and vanilla for a smoky seasonal flavor. The menu includes shareable drinks for up to six people, specialty shots (which features a body shot), NA beverages, and a full wine and beer list.
The hauntingly opulent party has two phases: before dark and after dark. Though spirits remain high in both phases, you can expect to settle in over cocktails and bites and watch the city as night descends from 3 to 9 p.m. during the before-dark phase. Once night swallows the day, the music gets louder, and the party gets livelier in the after-dark hours from 9 p.m. until Sorry Gorgeous closes.
While the menu and immersive decor play a large part in the experience, the DJs spinning frightfully funky tunes elevate the late-night energy and bring the realms of the living and dead together. On October 22, an homage to all things 2000s R&B, inspired by Michael Jackson’s iconic “Thriller,” will play a mix of throwbacks, slow jams, and anthems from Isaac Sinclair and Peter Paul Scott.
On the final night of The Last Dance, join Walshy Fire of Major Lazor for an exclusive rooftop affair on October 31. Bring your best costume and dance moves and be ready to dance the night away. Reservations are required and can be made here.
Sorry Gorgeous is located on the rooftop of Novel RiNo at 1350 40th St., Denver. Its hours are Sunday 3 p.m. – 12 a.m., Monday – Tuesday closed, Wednesday – 3 p.m. – 12 .m. Thursday – Saturday 3 p.m. – 2 a.m. The Last Dance runs from October 15 through October 31 from 3 to 9 p.m.. Reservations are highly encouraged and can be made here. Additional information reagrding the limited pop-up can be found here.
All photography by Connor Stehr.
