San Diego's spooktacular Halloween and fall events include costume contests, pumpkin patches, corn mazes, trick-or-treat spots, not-so-spooky encounters and other haunted happenings.
**Don't forget to call/check websites to confirm dates, times and admission prices. Pick up the October issue of San Diego Family Magazine at a location near you or read it online here for even more ways to celebrate!
Oct. 6-8 | Oct. 13-15 | Oct. 20-22 | Oct. 27-29 | Halloween | Candy Buy Backs
Featured Events 2023
FREE Pumpkin Station. Petting zoo, pumpkins, Ferris wheel and more. Sept. 29-Oct. 31. Mission Valley, 1750 Camino Del Rio N. (Mon.–Thurs., 11 am–9 pm; Fri.–Sun., 9 am–9 pm); Del Mar, 15555 Jimmy Durante Blvd. (Sun.–Thurs., 9 am–7 pm; Fri.–Sat., 9 am–9 pm); National City, 3030 Plaza Bonita Rd. (Mon.–Fri., 1–9 pm; Sat.–Sun., 11 am–9 pm). www.pumpkinstation.com
FREE Pumpkin Station Farms. Train ride, corn maze, petting zoo and more. Fee for some activities. Rancho Bernardo, 13421 Highland Valley Rd. Opens Sept. 29, (9 am–6 pm through Oct. 12; Oct. 13–31, 9 am–7 pm) & Bonita, 5354 Sweetwater Rd. (9 am–6 pm through Oct. 12; Oct. 13–31, 9 am–9 pm.) www.pumpkinstation.com
FREE San Diego Family Fun Fest: Halloween. Spooky activities, resource booths, crafts and more. Oct. 22, 10 am–1 pm. The Salvation Army Kroc Center Corner Zone, 6845 University Ave. www.sandiegofamily.com Register: www.eventbrite.com
Family Christmas Tree Farm Pumpkin Patch. Pumpkins, tractor rides, hay maze and more. Sept. 29-Oct. 31. Fri., 2–8 pm; Sat.–Sun., 10 am–8 pm. $5–$7. 300 Pepper Dr., El Cajon. www.familychristmastreefarm.com
FREE The Super Dentists Spooktacular. Costumes, carnival games, jumpies and more. Oct. 28, 11 am–2 pm. 2226 Otay Lakes Rd., Chula Vista. www.thesuperdentists.com
Carlsbad Pumpkin Patch & Fall Festival. Corn maze, BounceLand and more. Open daily, Sept. 22-Nov. 5, 9 am–6 pm. $10; 5 & under free. Carlsbad Strawberry Fields, Cannon Rd. & I-15. www.carlsbadstrawberrycompany.com
Haunted Corn Maze. Fridays & Saturdays in Oct., 7–10 pm. Carlsbad Strawberry Fields, Cannon Rd. & I-15. www.carlsbadstrawberrycompany.com
Howl-o-Ween Harvest Family Fest. Animal encounters, trick-or-treat stations, face painting and more. Oct. 14, 21, 28 & 29, 9 am–1 pm. $7–$13.75. Helen Woodward Animal Center, 6461 El Apajo, Rancho Santa Fe. www.animalcenter.org
Pumpkin Express. Train ride, pumpkin decorating, haunted train cars and more. Sat.–Sun. through Oct. 7-29, 10:30 & 11:45 am, 1:45 & 3 pm. $9.95–$24.95; 1 & under free. Pacific Southwest Railway Museum Campo Depot, 750 Depot St. www.psrm.org
Demo Days: Spooky Science. Learn about your bones and shadows, make your own model skeleton and more. Oct. 21, 10 am–2 pm. $19.95–$24.95. Fleet Science Center, Balboa Park. www.fleetscience.org
Halloween Aglow. Celebrate the wonders and mysteries of the ocean after dark in a fun kid-friendly atmosphere, featuring live music, glow-themed costume contests and trick-or-treating through the aquarium. Oct. 27-28, 6–8:30 pm. $27–$30. Birch Aquarium, 2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla. Tickets: www.aquarium.ucsd.edu
October
Sunday | 1
California Farm Life Pumpkin Patch. Pumpkins, activities and more. Sept. 15-Oct. 31. Mon.–Fri., 2–6 pm; Sat. & Sun., 10 am–6 pm. $5–$30. 18409 Rangeland Rd., Ramona. www.californiafarmlife.com
Julian Farm & Orchard Pumpkin Patch. Haybale maze, yard games and more. Fri.-Sun., 10 am-4 pm through Oct. 29.. $5–$25. 4381 Julian Hwy., Santa Ysabel. www.julianfarmandorchard.com
FREE Fallbrook Pumpkin Patch. Sept. 29-Oct. 31. Wed.–Fri., 4–8 pm; Sat., 10 am–8 pm; Sun., 12 pm–8 pm. 1924 E Mission Rd., Fallbrook. www.fallbrookpumpkinpatch.com
FREE Goff Family Pumpkin Patch. Pumpkins, photo ops and more. Sept. 22-Oct. 31. Sun.–Thurs., 9 am–8 pm, Fri. & Sat., 9 am–9 pm. Liberty Station, 2830 Perry Rd. www.gofffamilypumpkinpatch.com
Peltzer Pumpkin Farm. Pumpkins, petting farm and more. Sept. 23-Oct. 31. Mon.–Fri., 10 am–8 pm; Sat. & Sun., 9 am–8 pm. $2–$3. 39925 Calle Contento, Temecula. www.peltzerfarms.com
Oma’s Pumpkin Patch. Wagon rides, petting zoo, pumpkins and more. Sept. 26-Oct. 28. Tues.–Sat., 10 am–7 pm. 14950 El Monte Rd., Lakeside. Online reservations required: www.omasfamilyfarm.com
Pumpkin Patch at Bates Nut Farm. Tractor hay rides, straw maze, pumpkins and more. Sept. 16-Oct. 31. Mon.–Fri., 9 am–5:30 pm; Sat. & Sun., 8:30 am–6 pm. Weekend parking: $10. 15954 Woods Valley Rd., Valley Center. www.batesnutfarm.biz
FREE Fall Festival & Pumpkin Patch. Oct. 1, 10 am–5 pm. Sept. 30- Oct. 31. 2115 Miller Ave., Escondido. www.thefarmstandwest.com
FREE PB Pumpkin Patch. Pumpkin carving and painting area for kids. Mon.–Fri., 10 am–9 pm; Sat. & Sun., 9 am–9 pm. 870 Garnet Ave. www.pbpumpkinpatch.com
FREE Pumpkin Patch at Summers Past Farms. Pumpkins, corn maze & hay fort. Oct. 1-31; Thurs.–Sat., 9 am–4 pm & Sun., 10 am–4 pm. 15602 Olde Hwy., 80, Flinn Springs. www.summerspastfarms.com
FREE Mountain Valley Ranch Pumpkin Patch. Corn maze, corn cannon, petting zoo and more. Opens Sept. 23 daily, 9 am–6 pm. 842 Hwy. 78, Ramona. www.mountainvalleyranch.com
FREE Mr. Jack O’ Lantern’s Pumpkin Patch. Games, activities, pumpkins and more. Oct. 1-31, Mon.–Thurs., 11 am–8 pm; Fri. & Sat., 10 am–9 pm; Sun., 10 am–8 pm. 6710 La Jolla Blvd. & 3190 Mission Blvd. www.mrjackolanternspumpkins.com
FREE Fallbrook Scarecrow Days. See scarecrows on display at local businesses. Oct. 1-31. www.fallbrookchamberofcommerce.org
The Westgate Hocus Pocus Tea. Includes a take-home gift for kids 12 & under. Oct. 1, 12:30–2:30 pm. $95. 1055 2nd Ave. www.westgatehotel.com
Fall Festival at Belmont Park. Amusements for all ages. Sept. 9-Oct. 31. Free scavenger hunt and trick-or-treating Sundays, 5 pm. Kids free all month with adult admission. 3146 Mission Blvd. www.belmontpark.com/fallfest
FREE La Mesa Oktoberfest. Oompa bands, German food and more. Sept. 29-Oct. 1, 12–8 pm. La Mesa Village. www.lamesaoktoberfest.org
Oktoberfest in El Cajon. Kids’ zone, games, music and more. Oct. 1 & Oct. 6–8. Fri., 4–10 pm; Sat., 12–10 pm; Sun., 12–9 pm. $5–$15; under 21 free. 1017 S. Mollison Ave. www.germanclubsandiego.org
Halloween Spooktacular at SeaWorld. Candy, costumes and plenty of spooky surprises. Fri.–Sun., Sept. 15-Oct. 29. Interstate 5, exit SeaWorld Dr. Tickets: www.seaworldsandiego.com
HalGLOWeen. A skeleton band, scarecrow stilt performers, spider acrobats and more. Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays in Oct., 9 am–9 pm. 11 & under free when accompanied by an adult admission. 2920 Zoo Dr., Balboa Park. www.sdzwa.org
The Count's Halloween Spooktacular. Silly, not-too-spooky fun. Weekends Sept. 16-Nov. 5, 10 am–6 pm. 2052 Entertainment Cir., Chula Vista. www.sesameplace.com
Julian Autumn Jubilee. Hayride, petting zoo, activities and more. Every Weekend Sept. 23-Oct. 29. Saturdays, 10 am–5 pm & Sundays, 11 am–5 pm. Fort Cross, 4425 Hwy., 78, Santa Ysabel. Tickets: www.fortcross.com
Old Town Haunted Walking Tour. Explore Heritage Park, The Whaley House and more. Thurs.–Mon., through Oct. 28. 7 & 9 pm. $42. 2454 Heritage Park Row. www.hauntedsdoldtowntours.com
Pumpkin Polar Palooza. Funzone with inflatables, obstacle courses, bounce houses, petting zoo and more. Movies in the Patch, Fridays-Sundays in October. All movies begin at sundown. 10% military discount. Open every day, Sept. 16-Oct. 31. 1200 Laurel Tree Ln, Carlsbad. www.pumpkinpolarpalooza.com
Looking for local pumpkin patches? Click here to find a pumpkin patch near you!
friday | 6
Haunted Corn Maze. Fridays & Saturdays in Oct., 7–10 pm. Carlsbad Strawberry Fields, Cannon Rd. & I-15. www.carlsbadstrawberrycompany.com
Ocean Beach Oktoberfest. Live music, activities and more. Oct. 6, 4–11:30 pm & Oct. 7, 12–11:30 pm. $10. 5099 Newport Ave. www.oboktoberfest.com
Haunted Corn Maze. Fridays & Saturdays in Oct., 7–10 pm. Carlsbad Strawberry Fields, Cannon Rd. & I-15. www.carlsbadstrawberrycompany.com
“Welcome to Sleepy Hollow.” Family-friendly musical. Oct. 6-29. Fri., 8 pm, Sat., 2 & 8 pm & Sun., 2 pm. $20–$50. Oceanside Theatre Company, Brooks Theater, 217 N. Coast Hwy. www.oceansidetheatre.org
Big Bear Oktoberfest. Bands, beer, food and more. Weekends through Nov. 4. Fri. 4–11 pm, Sat., 1–11 pm & Sun., 12–6 pm. Big Bear Convention Center, 42900 Big Bear Blvd. Tickets: www.bigbearevents.com
Family Christmas Tree Farm Pumpkin Patch. Pumpkins, tractor rides, hay maze and more. Sept. 29-Oct. 31. Fri., 2–8 pm; Sat.–Sun., 10 am–8 pm. $5–$7. 300 Pepper Dr., El Cajon. www.familychristmastreefarm.com
Carlsbad Pumpkin Patch & Fall Festival. Corn maze, BounceLand and more. Open daily, Sept. 22-Nov. 5, 9 am–6 pm. $10; 5 & under free. Carlsbad Strawberry Fields, Cannon Rd. & I-15. www.carlsbadstrawberrycompany.com
Pumpkin Polar Palooza. Funzone with inflatables, obstacle courses, bounce houses, petting zoo and more. Movies in the Patch, Fridays-Sundays in October. All movies begin at sundown. 10% military discount. Open every day, Sept. 16-Oct. 31. 1200 Laurel Tree Ln, Carlsbad. www.pumpkinpolarpalooza.com
FREE Mellano Farm Stand Fall Festival. Every weekend in October, 10 am-4 pm. 5714 North River Rd., Oceanside.
Looking to get lost in a corn maze? Find one near you here.
saturday | 7
Autumn Festival. Activities and entertainment. Saturdays and Sundays from. Oct.. 7-29. 9 am–7 pm. 11 & under free when accompanied by an adult admission. Safari Park, 15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd., Escondido. www.sdzwa.org
Brick-or-Treat! Trick-or-treating, live shows and character meet and greets. Sept. 30 and Saturdays and Sundays in Oct. LEGOLAND, One LEGOLAND Dr., Carlsbad. Tickets: www.legoland.com
Pumpkin Express. Train ride, pumpkin decorating, haunted train cars and more. Sat.–Sun. Oct. 7- 29, 10:30 & 11:45 am, 1:45 & 3 pm. $9.95–$24.95; 1 & under free. Pacific Southwest Railway Museum Campo Depot, 750 Depot St. www.psrm.org
FREE Pumpkin Station. Petting zoo, pumpkins, Ferris wheel and more. Sept. 29-Oct. 31. Mission Valley, 1750 Camino Del Rio N. (Mon.–Thurs., 11 am–9 pm; Fri.–Sun., 9 am–9 pm); Del Mar, 15555 Jimmy Durante Blvd. (Sun.–Thurs., 9 am–7 pm; Fri.–Sat., 9 am–9 pm); National City, 3030 Plaza Bonita Rd. (Mon.–Fri., 1–9 pm; Sat.–Sun., 11 am–9 pm). www.pumpkinstation.com
FREE Pumpkin Station Farms. Train ride, corn maze, petting zoo and more. Fee for some activities. Rancho Bernardo, 13421 Highland Valley Rd. Opens Sept. 29, (9 am–6 pm through Oct. 12; Oct. 13–31, 9 am–7 pm) & Bonita, 5354 Sweetwater Rd. (9 am–6 pm through Oct. 12; Oct. 13–31, 9 am–9 pm.) www.pumpkinstation.com
Scarecrow Contest. Design & build a scarecrow for display. Oct. 7, 10 am–1 pm. Parking, $10. Bates Nut Farm, 15954 Woods Valley Rd., Valley Center. www.batesnutfarm.biz
Haunted Harvest. Haunted hayride, ghost stories and more. Sat. nights in Oct. 7:30, 8 & 8:30 pm. $30. 4425 Hwy. 78, Santa Ysabel. www.fortcross.com
Oktoberfest Fall Festival. Petting zoo, kids zone, magic and more. Oct. 7, 12–8 pm. $10. Carlsbad Strawberry Company, 1050 Cannon Rd. www.rotaryoktoberfest.org
sunday | 8
Pumpkin Express. Train ride, pumpkin decorating, haunted train cars and more. Sat.–Sun. through Oct. 7-29, 10:30 & 11:45 am, 1:45 & 3 pm. $9.95–$24.95; 1 & under free. Pacific Southwest Railway Museum Campo Depot, 750 Depot St. www.psrm.org
FREE San Marcos Harvest Fest. Kids zone, live music and more. Oct. 8, 9 am–5 pm. Along Via Vera Cruz between San Marcos Blvd. & Grand Ave. www.sanmarcoschamber.com
Carlsbad Pumpkin Patch & Fall Festival. Corn maze, BounceLand and more. Open daily, Sept. 22-Nov. 5, 9 am–6 pm. $10; 5 & under free. Carlsbad Strawberry Fields, Cannon Rd. & I-15. www.carlsbadstrawberrycompany.com
Pumpkin Polar Palooza. Funzone with inflatables, obstacle courses, bounce houses, petting zoo and more. Movies in the Patch, Fridays-Sundays in October. All movies begin at sundown. 10% military discount. Open every day, Sept. 16-Oct. 31. 1200 Laurel Tree Ln, Carlsbad. www.pumpkinpolarpalooza.com
Looking for local pumpkin patches? Click here to find a pumpkin patch near you!
thursday | 12
Autumn Harvest Teas. A harvest-themed version of the classic tea. Through Oct. 16. 11:30 am, 1 & 2:30 pm. $12.95–$36.95. Julian Tea & Cottage Arts, 2124 Third St. Reservations required: www.juliantea.com
Don’t forget to call first to confirm dates, times and admission prices.
friday | 13
Harvest Festival. Oct. 13-14, 10 am–5 pm; Oct. 15, 10 am–4 pm. $4–$9; 12 & under free. Del Mar Fairgrounds, 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd. www.harvestfestival.com
Fall Friday Festival. Kids crafts, straw maze, face painting and more. Oct. 13, 20 & 27; 3:30–6:30 pm. $2 activity tickets. Bates Nut Farm, 15954 Woods Valley Rd., Valley Center. www.batesnutfarm.biz
Pumpkin Polar Palooza. Funzone with inflatables, obstacle courses, bounce houses, petting zoo and more. Movies in the Patch, Fridays-Sundays in October. All movies begin at sundown. 10% military discount. Open every day, Sept. 16-Oct. 31. 1200 Laurel Tree Ln, Carlsbad. www.pumpkinpolarpalooza.com
Friday the 13th at the Gaslamp Museum. Join us, foolish mortals, when the veil is thin and the spirits are waking for a night of frightfully fun activities. Explore the paranormal by learning about popular spirit hunting methods, hear ghost stories straight from those who’ve lived them, grab a photo looking your ghoulish best and more. Oct. 13, 7–9 pm. $45. Old Town. www.gaslampfoundation.org/product/friday-the-13th-at-the-gaslamp-museum
Looking for Día de los Muertos events? Find an event near you, here!
saturday | 14
Howl-o-Ween Harvest Family Fest. Animal encounters, trick-or-treat stations, face painting and more. Oct. 14, 21, 28 & 29, 9 am–1 pm. $7–$13.75. Helen Woodward Animal Center, 6461 El Apajo, Rancho Santa Fe. www.animalcenter.org
Pumpkin Express. Train ride, pumpkin decorating, haunted train cars and more. Sat.–Sun. through Oct. 7-29, 10:30 & 11:45 am, 1:45 & 3 pm. $9.95–$24.95; 1 & under free. Pacific Southwest Railway Museum Campo Depot, 750 Depot St. www.psrm.org
Pumpkin Chuckin’. Launch your pumpkin from a catapult and more fun. 9 am–1 pm. $15–$25; 2 & under free. San Diego Air & Space Museum, Balboa Park. www.sandiegoairandspace.org
Family Night Halloween Party. Games, crafts, cake walk, costume contest and more. Wood House, 1148 Rock Springs Rd., San Marcos. Details: www.san-marcos.net
FREE Fall Fun Festival. Scarecrow contest, kids activities and more. 10 am–3 pm. Alta Vista Botanical Gardens, 1270 Vale Terrace Dr., Vista. httphttps://altavistabotanicalgardens.org/
Pumpkin Plunge. The Alga Norte Aquatic Center transforms into spooky fun with a floating pumpkin patch, bounce houses and more. Oct. 14, 5–8 pm. $10. 6565 Alicante Rd., Carlsbad. www.carlsbadca.gov
sunday | 15
Pumpkin Express. Train ride, pumpkin decorating, haunted train cars and more. Sat.–Sun. through Oct. 7-29, 10:30 & 11:45 am, 1:45 & 3 pm. $9.95–$24.95; 1 & under free. Pacific Southwest Railway Museum Campo Depot, 750 Depot St. www.psrm.org
Family Christmas Tree Farm Pumpkin Patch. Pumpkins, tractor rides, hay maze and more. Sept. 29-Oct. 31. Fri., 2–8 pm; Sat.–Sun., 10 am–8 pm. $5–$7. 300 Pepper Dr., El Cajon. www.familychristmastreefarm.com
The Witches of the Westgate Tea. Enjoy tea in your most bewitching costume. Today & Oct. 20–22, 1–3:30 pm. $95. 1055 2nd Ave. www.westgatehotel.com
Pumpkin Polar Palooza. Funzone with inflatables, obstacle courses, bounce houses, petting zoo and more. Movies in the Patch, Fridays-Sundays in October. All movies begin at sundown. 10% military discount. Open every day, Sept. 16-Oct. 31. 1200 Laurel Tree Ln, Carlsbad. www.pumpkinpolarpalooza.com
Don’t forget to call first to confirm dates, times and admission prices.
friday | 20
FREE HauntFest on Main. Carnival rides, candy challenge activities and more. 4–9 pm. E. Main St. from Magnolia to Avocado, downtown El Cajon. www.hauntfest.org
FREE Pumpkin Station. Petting zoo, pumpkins, Ferris wheel and more. Sept. 29-Oct. 31. Mission Valley, 1750 Camino Del Rio N. (Mon.–Thurs., 11 am–9 pm; Fri.–Sun., 9 am–9 pm); Del Mar, 15555 Jimmy Durante Blvd. (Sun.–Thurs., 9 am–7 pm; Fri.–Sat., 9 am–9 pm); National City, 3030 Plaza Bonita Rd. (Mon.–Fri., 1–9 pm; Sat.–Sun., 11 am–9 pm). www.pumpkinstation.com
FREE Pumpkin Station Farms. Train ride, corn maze, petting zoo and more. Fee for some activities. Rancho Bernardo, 13421 Highland Valley Rd. Opens Sept. 29, (9 am–6 pm through Oct. 12; Oct. 13–31, 9 am–7 pm) & Bonita, 5354 Sweetwater Rd. (9 am–6 pm through Oct. 12; Oct. 13–31, 9 am–9 pm.) www.pumpkinstation.com
Haunted Corn Maze. Fridays & Saturdays in Oct., 7–10 pm. Carlsbad Strawberry Fields, Cannon Rd. & I-15. www.carlsbadstrawberrycompany.com
Looking for local pumpkin patches? Click here to find a pumpkin patch near you!
saturday | 21
Demo Days: Spooky Science. Learn about your bones and shadows, make your own model skeleton and more. Oct. 21, 10 am–2 pm. $19.95–$24.95. Fleet Science Center, Balboa Park. www.fleetscience.org
Howl-o-Ween Harvest Family Fest. Animal encounters, trick-or-treat stations, face painting and more. Oct. 14, 21, 28 & 29, 9 am–1 pm. $7–$13.75. Helen Woodward Animal Center, 6461 El Apajo, Rancho Santa Fe. www.animalcenter.org
FREE Fall Festival. Haunted house, crafts, pumpkin decorating, trunk-or-treat and more. Oct. 21, 3–9 pm. Mira Mesa Senior Center, 8460 Mira Mesa Blvd. www.d6nightmarket.com
Junior Science Club: Jack-o-Lantern Circuit Creations. Design and build light-up jack-o-lanterns using circuits, LEDs, engineering and creativity. Oct. 21, 9–10:30 am & 11 am–12:30 pm. $18. Fleet Science Center, Balboa Park. www.fleetscience.org
Haunted Hangar Halloween Bash. Family-friendly activities, contests and more. Oct. 21, 6–9 pm. $20; 3 & under free. USS Midway Museum, 910 N. Harbor Dr. www.midway.org
Breakfast With the Littlest Pumpkin. Come in costume and play games, win prizes and eat pancakes. Oct. 21, 7:30-11 am. San Marcos Community Center, 3 Civic Center Dr., San Marcos. Details: www.san-marcos.net
Hoot, Howl & Prowl. Meet the canyon’s wildlife (docents dressed in animal costumes) up close. Oct. 21, 5:30 pm. $5. Blue Sky Ecological Reserve, 16275 Espola Rd., Poway. Register: www.poway.org
FREE “The Nightmare Before Christmas.” Oct. 21, Mira Mesa Community Park, 8575 New Salem St. & Oct. 28, Sweetwater Regional Park, 3218 Summit Meadows Rd., Bonita. Full schedule: www.summermoviesinthepark.com
Howl-o-Ween Doggie Costume Contest & Parade. Oct. 21, 11 am–12 noon. Parking, $10. Bates Nut Farm, 15954 Woods Valley Rd., Valley Center. www.batesnutfarm.biz
FREE Halloween Carnival. Miramar Ranch Elementary School, 10770 Red Cedar Dr. Details: www.miramarranch.org
FREE Dia de los Muertos. Dancing, family-friendly fun and more. Oct. 21, 1–5 pm. Westfield Plaza Bonita, level 2 food court, 3030 Plaza Bonita Rd. www.westfield.com
Ms. Smarty-Plants Goes Batty. Interactive show and trick-or-treating through Garden-Ghostly-Friendly Trails. Oct. 21, 5:30–8 pm. $8–$12; 2 & under free. The Water Conservation Garden, 12122 Cuyamaca College Dr. W., El Cajon. www.thegarden.org
FREE Sounds & Sips with the San Diego Symphony. Enjoy a free 90-minute performance with a 15-minute intermission on the lawn behind Harland Brewing. .Oct. 21, 3-5 pm. www.onepaseo.com/events/
Boo at the Zoo. Wild Wonders’ annual Halloween tours are a “treat” for the entire family. We’ll have candy stations (individually wrapped of course), apple cider and flashlights. Oct. 21, 22, 28 & 29, 5:30 & 6 pm. $20–$39. Wild Wonders, Bonsall. www.wildwonders.org/boo-at-the-zoo/
City Farmers Fall Festival. Contests, games and prizes. Oct. 21, 9 am–4 pm. 3110 Euclid Ave. www.cityfarmersnursery.com
sunday | 22
FREE San Diego Family Fun Fest: Halloween. Spooky activities, resource booths, crafts and more. Oct. 22, 10 am–1 pm. The Salvation Army Kroc Center Corner Zone, 6845 University Ave. www.sandiegofamily.com Register: www.eventbrite.com
Pumpkin Express. Train ride, pumpkin decorating, haunted train cars and more. Sat.–Sun. through Oct. 7-29, 10:30 & 11:45 am, 1:45 & 3 pm. $9.95–$24.95; 1 & under free. Pacific Southwest Railway Museum Campo Depot, 750 Depot St. www.psrm.org
FREE Waterfront Park Pumpkin Patch. Join First 5 San Diego and grab the perfect pumpkin for your jack-o-lantern this Halloween. Oct. 22, 11 am–2 pm. 1600 Pacific Hwy. www.sdparks.org
Costume Contest & Parade. Halloween treats and a tractor hayride. Oct. 22,, 9 am–1 pm. Parking, $10. Bates Nut Farm, 15954 Woods Valley Rd., Valley Center. www.batesnutfarm.biz
FREE Oceanside Día de los Muertos Festival. Altars, chalk ceremony and more. Oct. 22,, 10 am–5 pm. Downtown Oceanside. www.friendsofoceansidediadelosmuertos.org
FREE Fallbrook Harvest Faire. Pony rides, pumpkin contests, scarecrows and more. Oct. 22, 9 am–4 pm. Main Street. www.fallbrookchamberofcommerce.org
Boo at the Zoo. Wild Wonders’ annual Halloween tours are a “treat” for the entire family. We’ll have candy stations (individually wrapped of course), apple cider and flashlights. Oct. 21, 22, 28 & 29, 5:30 & 6 pm. $20–$39. Wild Wonders, Bonsall. www.wildwonders.org/boo-at-the-zoo
On the hunt for local corn mazes? Take a look at some of our favorites here!
wednesday | 25
FREE Trunk-or-Treat. Candy, fun and more. Oct. 25, 5–7:30 pm. Main St. & Magnolia Ave., El Cajon. www.cajonclassiccruise.org
Looking for Día de los Muertos events? Find an event near you, here!
friday | 27
Halloween Aglow. Celebrate the wonders and mysteries of the ocean after dark in a fun kid-friendly atmosphere, featuring live music, glow-themed costume contests and trick-or-treating through the aquarium. Oct. 27-28, 6–8:30 pm. $27–$30. Birch Aquarium, 2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla. Tickets: www.aquarium.ucsd.edu
Glow N Float Pumpkin Patch at Plunge Pool. Floating obstacle course, games, candy and more. Oct. 27, 5:30–8 pm. Belmont Park, 3146 Mission Blvd. Tickets: www.belmontpark.com
FREE Trick-or-Treat on India Street. Get treats from Little Italy businesses. Oct. 27, 5:30–7:30 pm. Maps at Piazza della Famiglia on India & W. Date St. www.littleitalysd.com
Spooky Campover. Haunted house, games and spooktacular surprises. Oct. 27, 3 pm-Oct. 28, 10 am. $55–$80. Lions, Tigers and Bears, 24402 Martin Way, Alpine. www.lionstigersandbears.org
“Haunted Mansion.” Watch a movie outdoors on the roof of the Manchester Grand Hyatt. Oct. 27, 3:45 pm. $11.75–$22.50. Rooftop Cinema Club Embarcadero, 1 Market Pl. www.rooftopcinemaclub.com
FREE Tierrasanta Trunk-or-Treat. Candy, food, games and more. Oct. 27, 5–8 pm. Newbreak Church, 10791 Tierrasanta Blvd. www.newbhttps://newbreak.church/
Art & Spirit: Día de los Muertos. Create a personal ofrenda with a nicho box. Oct. 27, 5 pm. $25. Ages 21 & up. Center for the Arts, Escondido, 340 N. Escondido Blvd. www.artcenter.org
FREE Halloween Carnival. Food vendors, DJ, game booths, prizes, silent auction, Candyland and more. Costumes encouraged. Oct. 27, 5:30–8:30 pm. Ellen Browning Scripps Elementary School, 11778 Cypress Canyon Rd.
saturday | 28
FREE The Super Dentists Spooktacular. Costumes, carnival games, jumpies and more. Oct. 28, 11 am–2 pm. 2226 Otay Lakes Rd., Chula Vista. www.thesuperdentists.com
Halloween Aglow. Celebrate the wonders and mysteries of the ocean after dark in a fun kid-friendly atmosphere, featuring live music, glow-themed costume contests and trick-or-treating through the aquarium. Oct. 27-28, 6–8:30 pm. $27–$30. Birch Aquarium, 2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla. Tickets: www.aquarium.ucsd.edu
Howl-o-Ween Harvest Family Fest. Animal encounters, trick-or-treat stations, face painting and more. Oct. 14, 21, 28 & 29, 9 am–1 pm. $7–$13.75. Helen Woodward Animal Center, 6461 El Apajo, Rancho Santa Fe. www.animalcenter.org
FREE Day of the Dead Old Town. Altars, decorations and more. Oct. 28-29. San Diego Ave. www.dayofthedeadsd.com
FREE Día de los Muertos at Leo Carrillo Ranch Open House. The historic adobe hacienda will be dressed up with colorful decorations and a customary ofrenda table. Oct. 28, 9:30 am–2:30 pm & tomorrow 9:30 am–4:30 pm. Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park, 6200 Flying Leo Carrillo Ln., Carlsbad. www.carrillo-ranch.org
FREE Once Upon a Hallowe’en. Haunted House, carnival games, train rides and more. Oct. 28, 4:30–8:30 pm. Old Poway Park, 14134 Midland Rd. www.poway.org
Pumpkin Bash. Watch big cats and bears devour pumpkin treats. Oct. 28, 10 am. $35–$60. Lions, Tigers and Bears, 24402 Martin Way, Alpine. www.lionstigersandbears.org
FREE Día de los Muertos Celebration. Community altar, kids craft, photo ops and more. Oct. 28, 3–8 pm. Downtown Chula Vista. https://downtownchulavista.com/events/dia-de-los-muertos-celebration
Lake Poway Halloween Campout. Spooky night hike, costume contest, jack-o’-lantern craft and more. Oct. 28, 5 pm. $66 per car. 14644 Lake Poway Rd. www.poway.org
FREE Halloween Spooktacular. Oct. 28, 11 am–2 pm. Mission Marketplace, 471 College Blvd., Oceanside. www.missionmarketplaceoceanside.com
Día de los Muertos at Leo Carrillo Ranch Dinner and Movie. A family-friendly celebration that includes dinner, crafts for kids and the movie “Coco.” 8:30 pm. $25. Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park, 6200 Flying Leo Carrillo Ln., Carlsbad. Registration required: www.carlsbadca.gov
Howl-o-Ween 5K Mutt Run/Walk. Costume contest, prizes and more. Oct. 28, 8:30 am. $50–$65. Road Runner Sports, 5553 Copley Dr. www.labsandmore.org
City Heights Día De Los Muertos. Oct. 28, 10 am–5 pm. Officer Jeremy Henwood Memorial Park, 4455 Wightman St. www.facebook.com/CityHeightsDiaDeMuertos/
FREE Halloween Spooktacular Soap Box Races. Enjoy a day of racing and treats. Oct. 28, 10 am–12 noon. Brawley Cattle Call, Brawley. Hosted by Best S.T.E.P Forward. www.beststepforward.org
FREE Fall Moonlight Cinema. Oct. 28, 5-9 pm. Join One Paseo for a special event featuring Coco on the lawn behind Harland Brewing. Enjoy a night under the stars with friends and family, special treats and a pumpkin patch photo op. Be sure to bring your blankets and chairs! One Paseo, 3725 Paseo Place. www.onepaseo.com/events/fall-moonlight-cinema-2023/
FREE Halloween Spooktacular. A family-friendly fall event including trick-or-treating, carnival games, live music and strolling spooky characters. Oct. 28, 2–6 pm. The Forum Carlsbad. https://theforumcarlsbad.com/events/the-forum-carlsbad-halloween-spooktacular
sunday | 29
Howl-o-Ween Harvest Family Fest. Animal encounters, trick-or-treat stations, face painting and more. Oct. 14, 21, 28 & 29, 9 am–1 pm. $7–$13.75. Helen Woodward Animal Center, 6461 El Apajo, Rancho Santa Fe. www.animalcenter.org
Pumpkin Express. Train ride, pumpkin decorating, haunted train cars and more. Sat.–Sun. through Oct. 7-29, 10:30 & 11:45 am, 1:45 & 3 pm. $9.95–$24.95; 1 & under free. Pacific Southwest Railway Museum Campo Depot, 750 Depot St. www.psrm.org
Pumpkin Poolooza. Floating pumpkin patch, games and more. Oct. 29, 1, 1:45, 2:30 & 3:15 pm. $20. The Salvation Army Kroc Center, 6845 University Ave. Register: https://sd.kroccenter.org
FREE Trunk-or-Treat Car Show at Belmont Park. Music, food, rides and fun. Oct. 29, 3–6 pm. 3146 Mission Blvd. www.belmontpark.com
The Shout! House: Halloween Family Night. Costume contest, dueling pianos and more. Oct. 29, 2–4 pm. $10. 655 Fourth Ave., Gaslamp. www.theshouthouse.com
FREE Seaport Village Halloween Festival & Seaport Fudge Factory Costume Contest Celebration. Contest registration and pre-event party, Oct. 29, 12–2 pm; games, dancing, parade, contest and more, 2–5 pm. Seaport Village, 849 W. Harbor Dr. www.seaportvillage.com
FREE Encinitas Día de los Muertos. Art exhibits, workshops and more. Oct. 29, 12–4 pm. Mira Costa College, 3333 Manchester Ave., Cardiff. www.encinitasarts.org
Boo at the Zoo. Wild Wonders’ annual Halloween tours are a “treat” for the entire family. We’ll have candy stations (individually wrapped of course), apple cider and flashlights. Oct. 21, 22, 28 & 29, 5:30 & 6 pm. $20–$39. Wild Wonders, Bonsall. www.wildwonders.org/boo-at-the-zoo
tuesday | 31
HALLOWEEN
FREE Safe Trick-or-Treat. Halloween-themed activities, music, games and more. 5–8 pm. S. Coast Hwy. 101 between Encinitas Blvd. and K St. www.encinitas101.com
FREE Trick-or-Treating in La Mesa Village. 4–6 pm. La Mesa Blvd, between 4th St & Acacia. www.lamesavillegeassociation.org
FREE Treats at Village Walk at EastLake. 3–5 pm. EastLake Pkwy. & Miller Dr., Chula Vista. www.shopvillagewalk.com
FREE Trick-or-Treat at EastLake Village Marketplace. 3–5 pm. Cor. of Otay Lakes Road & EastLake Pkwy., Chula Vista. www.shopeastlakemarketplace.com
FREE Trick-or-Treat Off the Street. 3–5 pm. Carmel Mountain Ranch Town Center, Carmel Mtn. Rd. & Highland Rd. 858.695.2700
FREE Hullabaloo Kids Concert. 10–11 am. Del Mar Highlands Town Center, Upper Plaza, 12925 El Camino Real. www.delmarhighlandstowncenter.com
Halloween Treat Trail. Families and children in Poway and the surrounding communities can enjoy a fun and safe Halloween by visiting local businesses for treats - no tricks! A list of participating businesses and a trail map will be published and shared with the community the week prior to Halloween. Oct. 31, 2–6 pm. https://business.poway.com/events/details/halloween-treat-trail-21677
Halloween Candy Buy-Backs
Did you know that Americans purchase nearly 600 million pounds of candy every year just for Halloween? Much of that will be devoured immediately, but most will linger around the house to tempt you for days and weeks to come. Why not save your family the extra calories by donating leftover candy? With a little effort, you can provide great gifts to people in need of encouragement!
- The Super Dentists' 19th Annual Candy Buy Back.
Visit The Super Dentists for their 19th annual Candy Buy Back! Bring your candy to any Super Dentists' location from Nov. 1-6 to receive $1 for every pound of candy donated. All candy collected will be enjoyed by Active Duty Service Members! For more information check out pg. 2 in our October issue here. To send your own care package directly, visit OperationGratitude.com for guidelines. - Halloween Candy Buy-Back at Brain Balance. As participants of the Teal Pumpkin Project, Brain Balance is offering families a safe and inclusive opportunity to participate in a Candy Buy-Back event. The whole family is encouraged to bring in their candy and exchange it for fun toys, activities and gift cards, while supplies last. Free center tours and limited-time assessment specials will be offered to attendees. RSVPs encouraged. RSVP at https://bit.ly/bbsdcandy23. Drop off your candy during normal business hours at each respective Brain Balance of Greater San Diego center.
- Operation Gratitude: More info coming soon.
Don’t forget to call first to confirm dates, times and admission prices.
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Updated: October 2023