Happening Friday

EVENTS

A Dark Carnival The newly opened Villains Tavern in the downtown Arts District presents a dastardly bacchanal with performances by Circus Insidious, a freak show, tarot readings, live music and gourmet food trucks. Ages 21 and older. Villains Tavern, 1356 Palmetto St., L.A. 7 p.m. to 2 a.m. Free. (213) 613-0766. https://www.villainstavern.com. Find a list of more Halloween parties at latimes.com/halloweenparty.

Long Beach Comic Con Though in only its second year, the convention is quickly proving itself worthwhile and not just as a means of holding over comic book enthusiasts until the main event in San Diego. More than 100 exhibitors will be on site to fan the flames of geeky passion, Shiny Toy Guns will headline a combination costume ball-concert Friday night and a special guest appearance on Sunday by Marvel Comics founder Stan Lee will cap the weekend’s events. Long Beach Convention Center, 300 E. Ocean Blvd., Long Beach. $25 Fri. and Sun. and in advance for Sat.; $30 at the door Sat.; $45 for a three-day pass. 1 to 8 p.m. Fri., 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Sat., 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sun. https://www.longbeachcomiccon.com.

BOOKS

Judd Apatow and Dave Eggers Filmmaker Judd Apatow and writer and editor Dave Eggers team to present a night of comedy and music to celebrate the release of Apatow’s book, “I Found This Funny,” an anthology of humor writing that Apatow curated. The book includes the writing of Steve Martin, Nora Ephron, David Sedaris and others. The night of entertainment includes appearances by Lindsey Buckingham, Randy Newman and Garry Shandling. Proceeds benefit 826LA, Eggers’ tutoring and writing program. Writers Guild Theater, 135 S. Doheny Drive, Beverly Hills. 8 p.m. $250-$500. https://www.826la.org/ifoundthisfunny.

FAMILY

Night Dive The Aquarium transforms into a watery Halloween haven for one spooky evening designed for audiences 18 and older. Soak in the oceanic ambience in the company of 11,000 deep sea creatures — including colorful jellyfish, hypnotic sea dragons and fearsome sharks — while enjoying cocktails, live music and DJs. Costumes encouraged. Aquarium of the Pacific, 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach. 7 to 11 p.m. $11.95. (562) 951-1630. https://www.aquariumofpacific.org.