Credit: New York Restoration Project

They’ll put a spell on you… for charity!

Every spooky season, the New York Restoration Project, a nonprofit dedicated to revitalizing New York City’s under-resourced communities, holds its annual Hulaween gala. It’s a big costumed charity bash, with a vaguely Hawaiian theme, all to raise money for the environmental betterment of the city. Celebrities are known to often pay a visit, with one of the most common appearances being by Bette Midler, herself a member of the NYRP. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic has forced the group to cancel this year’s Hulaween gala, but thanks to a little help from Midler, the event has risen from the dead, just like a certain trio of witch sisters.

It was announced today that not only will the Hulaween gala still be held, albeit as an online only event, it will be hosted by Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker and Kathy Najimy, all reprising their roles as the Sanderson Sisters from the cult classic Halloween flick, Hocus Pocus. In the spirit of this change, the event has been officially retitled “In Search of the Sanderson Sisters: A Hocus Pocus Hulaween Takeover.”

Credit: New York Restoration Project

Details are still a bit sparse, but from what we can gather, in addition to the usual Hulaween performances and presentations, the Sanderson trio will appear to pay tribute to the ’93 classic film. Up until the event is held on October 30, limited edition merchandise will be available in the official NYRP shop, as well as entry into virtual classes held by the “Sanderson Sisters Charm School.”

Tickets to the event are on sale now for $10 a pop. According to a NYRP press release, all proceeds from the event will go toward their ongoing goal of “creating more green space for underserved communities to grow their own food, connect, and access safe spaces directly in their neighborhood.”