Correction: HHN at its core has ALWAYS been one big Halloween party. That is deeply embedded into it. The only thing that has changed is their budget & scary content, which both has increased.
The event used to have concerts, used to have a parade, & way more shows. The only part that has "survived" over the years is the alcohol (and food). It's NOT "turning into" a party. It started as one & always will be one.
Original 1991 tagline: "Dying for a good Halloween party?"