‘Dancing With the Stars’ Season 35, Week 7: How to watch for free

As the lights dim and the music swells, the excitement in the air is palpable—tonight, 'Dancing With the Stars' transforms into a haunted ballroom, inviting viewers to witness not just dance, but the stories of perseverance and artistry behind each performance. This highly anticipated Halloween special, dubbed "Horror Movie Night," promises a thrilling blend of spooky spectacle and dazzling footwork, captivating audiences across the nation and right here in our Syracuse homes.

The stage is set for a night of ghoulish glamour and intense competition, with the specter of a double elimination looming large over the ten remaining couples. After a week where no pair was sent home, the stakes are higher than ever, ensuring that every step, every lift, and every spin carries profound weight for the contestants. Syracuse families are invited to gather tonight, Tuesday, October 27, at 8 p.m. ET, to witness this dramatic showdown live on ABC and Disney+.

For many, 'Dancing With the Stars' is more than just a television show; it's a cherished weekly ritual that brings generations together. The shared experience of watching these dedicated performers, often from diverse backgrounds, pour their hearts into every routine fosters conversation and creates lasting memories. It's a testament to the power of shared entertainment to strengthen family bonds, much like cheering on our local high school teams on a Friday night.

The Hauntingly High Stakes

Tonight's "Horror Movie Night" special is poised to be one of the most memorable episodes of Season 35. With 10 talented couples still in the running, the pressure is immense, especially knowing that two pairs will face elimination by the end of the evening. Each couple, with their unique backgrounds and dreams, has been tirelessly rehearsing to deliver performances that will impress judges Carrie Ann Inaba, Bruno Tonioli, and Derek Hough, and, crucially, earn the votes of viewers at home.

The show, hosted by the charismatic Alfonso Ribeiro, will guide us through a night of elaborate costumes and intricate choreography, all inspired by classic horror films. Viewers can catch all the action live on their local ABC affiliate, WSYR-TV Channel 9 here in Syracuse, or stream it directly via a Disney+ subscription. The accessibility of the show across multiple platforms ensures that no family has to miss out on the excitement.

Beyond traditional cable, there are several convenient ways for Syracuse residents to tune in. Subscription services like Hulu + Live TV, FuboTV, Sling TV, and YouTube TV all offer packages that include ABC, often with free trial options for new subscribers. For those who prefer to watch on their own schedule, the episode will also be available for streaming the next day on Hulu.

Your Vote, Your Voice

A critical component of 'Dancing With the Stars' is the audience vote, which accounts for a significant portion of each couple's final score. Viewers can participate in the live voting process during the show by texting specific keywords to 21523. This direct engagement allows supporters to actively champion their favorite dancers, making the viewing experience even more personal and exciting.

The couples vying for the coveted Mirrorball Trophy tonight include Alyson Hannigan & Sasha Farber (text ALYSON), Ariana Madix & Pasha Pashkov (text ARIANA), and Charity Lawson & Artem Chigvintsev (text CHARITY). Also competing are Harry Jowsey & Rylee Arnold (text HARRY), Jason Mraz & Daniella Karagach (text JASON), and Lele Pons & Brandon Armstrong (text LELE). Each pair brings a unique dynamic and a compelling story to the dance floor.

Rounding out the field are Mauricio Umansky & Emma Slater (text MAURICIO), Milo Manheim & Witney Carson (text MILO), Xochitl Gomez & Val Chmerkovskiy (text XOCHITL), and Barry Williams & Peta Murgatroyd (text BARRY). The emotional stakes are incredibly high for these performers, who have dedicated countless hours to mastering their craft. Their perseverance and passion are truly inspiring, reflecting the kind of dedication we celebrate in all walks of life, from our Syracuse City School District students to our local community leaders.

Community Connection and Lasting Impact

While 'Dancing With the Stars' is a national phenomenon, its impact resonates deeply within our local community. Families across Syracuse will be gathering tonight, sharing popcorn and lively discussions about the performances. This shared experience fosters a sense of togetherness and provides a wonderful opportunity for parents and children to bond over a common interest, reinforcing the importance of strong, intact family units.

The show's emphasis on hard work, discipline, and artistic expression also aligns with values we hold dear in Syracuse. Whether it's the dedication seen in our Syracuse University athletes or the commitment of volunteers in our City of Syracuse initiatives, the pursuit of excellence is a universal language. The dancers' journeys, often filled with challenges and triumphs, serve as a powerful reminder that perseverance can lead to extraordinary achievements.

As we look forward to tonight's special, it's a moment to appreciate the power of entertainment to unite us. The thrill of competition intertwines with the joy of artistic expression, creating a dynamic tension that resonates with viewers and contestants alike. It's a celebration of talent and creativity that brings families together, sparking conversations and shared experiences in living rooms across the Onondaga County region.

The anticipation for the double elimination adds a layer of tension, reflecting the emotional stakes for both the contestants and their supporters. As the final dance concludes, the audience is left not only with memories of stunning performances but also with a sense of unity, eagerly awaiting what the next week will bring. This shared journey, week after week, contributes to the fabric of our community, offering a wholesome and engaging activity for all ages.

In a world often filled with distractions, programs like 'Dancing With the Stars' provide a valuable opportunity for families to connect and enjoy quality time together. It's a reminder of the simple joys of gathering around the television, sharing laughter, and marveling at human talent. These moments, big or small, contribute to the strength and resilience of our families and, by extension, our entire community.