Best Halloween Events In Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego
It’s that time of the year again for all the young ghouls and goblins to enjoy some spooky fun! From pumpkin patches to Halloween movies, there are tons of fun things to do in Southern California and plenty that are not-too-scary family-friendly events.
We’ve got your full guide to all things South Bay Halloween, as well as the best pumpkin patches and trick-or-treat events to attend, but just in case you feel like venturing out of the local area this year, we’ve rounded up the best Halloween events in Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego, from not-so-scary fun for kids to the biggest haunted attractions in the state.
**Please continue to check back as we update this post with new info throughout the season.**
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Here’s our Must-See Halloween Events Across Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego in 2026
Also Check out: The Ultimate Guide to Halloween in the South Bay
Halloween Events in Los Angeles
Boo at the L.A. Zoo
Oct. 24 & 25, and Oct. 31 & Nov. 1, 2026, 10am – 3pm
Los Angeles Zoo
5333 Zoo Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027
At the L.A. Zoo in Griffith Park, visitors can take in spooky sights as the Halloween spirit takes over. Enjoy trick-or-treating stations featuring premium Mars candies, plus animal pumpkin feedings, themed photo ops, education stations, an extinct animal graveyard, and more. Costumes are welcome!
“The Nightmare Before Christmas” at the El Capitan Theatre
Date TBA
El Capitan Theatre
6838 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Every year fans are invited for a special Halloween-time screening of Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas.
Carved at Descanso Gardens
October 2 – November 1, 2026
Descanso Gardens
1418 Descanso Dr, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011
This family-friendly event is back again at Descanso Gardens. The gardens take on a whole new look as thousands of carved pumpkins line the walkways after dark. In addition to creative jack-o’ lanterns, the event features unique art installations, fall food offerings, and more. And don’t miss the Descanso Railroad lit up for the spooky celebration.
Kidspace Halloween
September 18 – October 31, 2026
Kidspace Children’s Museum
480 N. Arroyo Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91103
Bring your little one to Kidspace this fall for one of Los Angeles’ most beloved Halloween events for kids—the Kidspace Halloween Bash! Enjoy lively costume parades, take an exciting trike ride through a spooky house, and create an enchanting elixir. The festivities run from September 18 through Halloween, offering a day filled with monstrously fun family memories to kick off the spooky season.
Underwood Family Farms: Fall Harvest on the Farm
Sept. 26 – Oct. 31, 2026
Underwood Family Farms
3370 Sunset Valley Rd, Moorpark, CA 93021
Easily one of the best Halloween events Los Angeles has to offer, the Fall Harvest Festival at Underwood is a must-do for families with young kids. The farm will be transformed into a massive “Pumpkin Patch, Pick Your Own & Fall Harvest Experience” with activities such as rides, games, picture ops, live music, themed weekends, food vendors, and more. Be sure to book your weekend tickets in advance.
Nights of the Jack
Sept. 25 – Nov. 1, 2026
King Gillette Ranch
26800 Mulholland Hwy, Calabasas, CA 91302
This immersive experience is one of our favorite fun Halloween events. Showcasing thousands of hand-carved, illuminated pumpkins across the grounds of King Gillette Ranch in the Santa Monica Mountains, they’ve created a spectacular light display beneath the fall sky. Grab a hot beverage or seasonal drink from the Spookeasy bar or a festive bite to eat at the food trucks before you head out on the trail. There are so many new additions to Night of the Jack this year. You’ll definitely want to visit even if you’ve been before to check them all out!
Los Angeles Haunted Hay Ride
Select Nights Sept 18th – Nov 1st
Near the city’s Old Zoo in Griffith Park
4730 Crystal Springs Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027
WARNING! EVENT MAY BE TOO INTENSE FOR CHILDREN 12 & UNDER
The 2026 Midnight Falls Halloween experience is back with all-new frights and fan favorites to thrill visitors. This year bow to the original Mistress of the Dark with Elvira’s Trick or Treat Mayhem. The hayride has been reimagined with new seating and takes visitors on a chilling journey through the cursed woods, where the Witch of the Woods summons spirits for revenge. New for 2026 enter the haunted world of Fallen Angel, a legendary rock band whose final Halloween rehearsal ended in flames, and whose spirits still haunt the abandoned theater.
Thrilling activities include shooting gellyballs at live zombies, axe throwing with “Axeperts,” mini escape games, and the iconic Scary-Go-Round ride. Get ready for a hauntingly unforgettable experience!
Bob Baker’s Halloween Spectacular
Sept. 5 – Nov. 8, 2026
Bob Baker Marionette Theater
4949 York Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA, 90042
Whether you’re a longtime fan of Bob Baker or this is your first show, don’t miss this hour-long, family-friendly boo-sical revue! The show features over one hundred spirited puppets, like glow-in-the-dark skeletons and Frankenstein’s monster.
Boo at the Zoo America’s Teaching Zoo
Oct. 24, 25, 31 and Nov. 1 2026
The Teaching Zoo at Moorpark College
7075 Campus Rd, Moorpark, CA 93021
Two weekends in October, visit this fantastic zoo at Moorpark College for some family-friendly Halloween activities. In addition to animal meet and greets and wildlife programs, visitors can also check out free kids crafts, a scavenger hunt, photo ops, food trucks, and trick-or-treating.
Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights
Select nights Sept. 3 – Nov. 1, 2026
Universal Studios Hollywood
100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608
Universal Studios Hollywood transforms after dark with scare zones and terrifying haunted houses based on classic scary movies and new favorites like Five Nights At Freddy’s and Terrifier. You can also take a ride aboard the Terror Tram for more scares. This event is not for the faint of heart and is definitely geared toward teens and adults.
The Queen Mary’s Dark Harbor
Select Dates September 18- November 1, 2026
The Queen Mary
1126 Queens Hwy, Long Beach, CA 90802
Dark Harbor at the historic Queen Mary in Long Beach is Southern California’s most haunted Halloween event. Each fall, the Queen Mary and its harbor transform into a massive Halloween festival, featuring haunted mazes, hundreds of monsters, immersive attractions, live entertainment, VIP experiences, themed bars, carnival rides, festive eats, and more. Guests can choose from various experiences, including terrifying mazes aboard the haunted ship and festival favorites like the Sinister Swings. Tickets are available exclusively online.
Six Flags Magic Mountain Fright Fest
Select Nights, September 18 – November 1
Six Flags Magic Mountain
26101 Magic Mountain Pkwy, Valencia, CA 91355
Fright Fest Extreme debuts as California’s largest haunt, featuring 20 haunted houses and scare zones inspired by favorites like Stranger Things, Army of the Dead, Trick ‘r Treat, SAW, and The Conjuring Universe. Presented by SNICKERS®, the event also offers monstertainment, eerie eats, and more. With 11 haunted houses and 9 scare zones, guests can step into a world of their worst nightmares for an unforgettable experience.
Kids Boo Fest at Six Flags
Friday-Sunday, September 18 – November 1, Noon to 5pm
Six Flags Magic Mountain
26101 Magic Mountain Pkwy, Valencia, CA 91355
Monstertainment awaits at the Kids Boo Fest, offering spooky fun for all ages at Fright Fest, from September 18 to November 1. Families can enjoy classic rides in the daylight, embark on the Trick-or-Treat Trail in Bugs Bunny World, and let little ones explore festive mazes. Indulge in ghoulish treats and delicious dishes while enjoying fall festivities that promise fun for everyone.
Halloween Organ and Film at Walt Disney Concert Hall
Oct. 31, 2026
Walt Disney Concert Hall
111 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Looking for something a little different this Halloween? If your big kids have outgrown trick or treating, why not spend October 31st enjoying a screening of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde (1920), accompanied by a special performance by organist Clark Wilson.
Street Food Cinema
Multiple Locations and Select dates in October
The popular outdoor movie fest gets into the spirit of the season for the month of October with screenings of Hocus Pocus, The Rocky Horror Picture Show, and more.
Rooftop Cinema Club
Multiple Locations and Select dates in September and October
Pack a picnic and pick your rooftop location across the city for an evening of movie classics. The September and October lineups include Hocus Pocus, Practical Magic, The Addams Family and more.
Pumpkins in the Pines
Weekends in October
Skypark at Santa’s Village
28950 California 18, Skyforest, CA 92385
As autumn arrives and the mountain landscape is painted in shades of gold, the season’s delights come to mind: vibrant foliage, apple cider, warm sweaters, and the beloved Pumpkins in the Pines event. Every Saturday and Sunday, visitors can experience a park-wide pumpkin patch, trick-or-treating, seasonal treats and drinks, a costume parade, pumpkin painting, and the Legend of Sleepy Hollow Puppet Show, among other activities. Celebrate the essence of fall with family-friendly outdoor fun and countless photo opportunities. Don’t miss a visit to Kringle’s Coffee & Gifts for the finest pumpkin spice latte in the area!
Griffith Park “Not Too Scary” Halloween Train
Dates TBA
Last train leaves at 5pm, but the activity and games area closes at 3:30pm.
Griffith Park & Southern Railroad
4400 Crystal Springs Dr., Los Angeles, CA
The Not-Too-Scary Halloween Train Ride at Griffith Park Southern Railroad runs every weekend in October, offering a family-friendly Halloween experience. Each ticket includes an “I Spy” Halloween map, a train ride around a mile-long loop with festive decorations, a small treat, access to activities and games, and photo opportunities.
Enchanted Halloweekends at Discovery Cube LA
Weekends September 26 – November 8, 2026
Discovery Cube LA
11800 Foothill Blvd Sylmar, CA 91342
Explore a world where science and magic combine for an incredible Halloween experience for all ages. Make your way through the center and discover spellbinding activities and eerie delights. Whether you’re casting spells at the Wonders of Wizardry stage show, navigating the twists and turns of the Haybale Maze, or the new corn maze, every corner of the center promises enchanted memories.
Halloween Events in Orange County
Halloween Time at Disneyland Resort & Disney’s California Adventure
Aug. 21 – Oct. 31, 2026
Disneyland Resort & Disney’s California Adventure
1313 Disneyland Dr. Anaheim, CA 92802
This Halloween, Disneyland and Disney California Adventure Park will transform into kid-friendly, spooky theme parks. Main Street, USA, will greet you with festive displays of distinctively carved pumpkins, including the enormous Mickey pumpkin. Characters will be dressed in costumes, the Haunted Mansion becomes the Nightmare Before Christmas, you’ll find lots of special Halloween-themed shows and parades, and don’t forget all the yummy sweets throughout the park.
Pluto’s Pumpkin Pursuit at Downtown Disney
Aug 21 – Oct 31, 2026
Get into the spirit of the season with this exciting game! You can find your game board and stickers at various locations throughout the Disneyland Resort. Explore Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure Park, and the Downtown Disney District to pinpoint a pleasant patch of pumpkins and pick up a creepy keepsake. For just $9.99 plus tax, grab your map and stickers at select merchandise locations. Enjoy the hunt for hidden decorative pumpkins inspired by Disney characters, and affix the corresponding stickers to your map. Whether you decide to search for pumpkins or not, be sure to return your map to a redemption location to receive your keepsake. Have fun!
Knott’s Spooky Farm
Thursdays – Sundays, Sept. 26 – Oct. 31, 2026 plus Columbus Day
Knott’s Berry Farm
8039 Beach Blvd, Buena Park, CA 90620
Enjoy a family-friendly fall festival for Halloween at Knott’s Spooky Farm. The park is revamped for Halloween with eerie surprises and festive-themed décor. Young kids ages 3-11 will enjoy checking out the various children’s Halloween activities, including trick-or-treating, throughout the stores and other structures in the town of Calico to gather tasty sweets. For the older kids, there is KNOTT’S SCARY FARM. This special ticketed event happens on select evenings through Halloween night.
Knott’s Scary Farm
Select Nights, September 17 – October 31, 2026
Knott’s Berry Farm
8039 Beach Blvd, Buena Park, CA 90620
Learn about their Chaperone and Bag Policy
Knott’s Scary Farm, Southern California’s longest-running Halloween theme park event, celebrates over 50 years of nightmares and innovative thrills. The park transforms into a haunting experience featuring uniquely designed mazes, sinister shows, and more than 1,000 terrifying creatures lurking in the fog. With its eerie atmosphere and imaginative scares, Knott’s Scary Farm offers an unforgettable adventure, though it is not recommended for children under 13. All guests, regardless of age, must purchase their own admission ticket.
Irvine Park’s Railroad Pumpkin Patch
September 12 – October 31, 2026
Irvine Park’s Railroad
1 Irvine Park Rd, Orange, CA 92869
The Pumpkin Patch at Irvine Park Railroad in Orange County is enjoyable for the whole family. Come out and take advantage of the numerous kid-friendly activities with free admission. The massive patch offers train and hay wagon rides, bouncy houses, face painting, pumpkin ring throws, tasty cuisine, a hay maze, a haunted house, and, of course, pumpkin picking. Please note, reservations are now required on select weekends.
Halloween Zoo-Tacular at the OC Zoo
Saturday, Oct. 24, 2026 10 am – 4 pm
Orange County Zoo
Irvine Regional Park
1 Irvine Park Rd, Orange, CA 92869
Join the Halloween fun at the OC Zoo! Enjoy activities like a scavenger hunt*, trick-or-treating*, and spooky crafts for kids, and watch as the zoo animals receive treat-filled pumpkins throughout the day.
No reservations are needed, and activities are included with zoo admission ($2 per person, free for ages 2 and under). Please note that zoo coupons and free passes are not valid for this event. Weekend parking is $5 per vehicle.
*Trick-or-treating candy and scavenger hunt prizes are available while supplies last. **Activities are for children ages 12 and under.
Tanaka Farms Pumpkin Patch
Now – November 1, 2026
Tanaka Farms
5380 3/4 University Dr, Irvine, CA 92612
For an authentic pumpkin patch experience, head to Tanaka Farms. At this u-pick pumpkin field, you can select the perfect pumpkins to bring home, take a wagon ride, and navigate the corn maze. Weekends include additional activities, like arts and crafts, festival games, farmer golf, and the famous pumpkin cannon.
Pumpkin Palooza at Discovery Cube OC
Weekends, October 3 – November 1, 2026
Discovery Cube OC
2500 N Main Street. Santa Ana, CA 92705
This October, Discovery Cube Orange County invites all witches, wizards, ghosts, and goblins to join the enchanting fun of Pumpkin Palooza presented by OC Waste & Recycling. Every weekend from October 3 to November 1, explore two floors of exciting activities, special party night festivities, and spooky science fun for all ages! This year features a spooktacular twist with Pumpkin Palooza Party Nights on select dates, offering an electrifying nighttime version of the dance party and festival.
Please note: an additional event ticket is required to attend the festival and dance party, along with your general admission ticket or membership.
Boo-tastic Halloween Party at Adventure City
Select dates in October
Adventure City
1238 S Beach Blvd, Anaheim, CA 92804
Each evening on select dates, enjoy the Halloween festivities at Adventure City. Browse the “Trick-or-Treat Street” for free candy and other gifts, ride the Halloween-themed Express Train, enjoy a spooky Halloween scavenger hunt, and check out the Spooktacular Dance Party. Costumes are welcome!
Halloween Events in San Diego
Brick-or-Treat Presents Monster Party at Legoland California
Select dates, September 19 – November 1, 2026
Legoland California
One Legoland Dr, Carlsbad, CA 92008
LEGOLAND’s popular Halloween event is back again, bringing monstrous fun to the theme park. Guests will be treated to tons of candy, a brand-new show schedule, silly monster LEGO characters, and more.
San Diego Zoo HalGLOWeen
Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays in October, 2026
San Diego Zoo
2920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
Join the fun at the San Diego Zoo with a glowing party that’s sure to be wild! Live DJs, bubble shows, animal encounters, acrobatics, and more are all part of this spooktacular shindig. Kids ages 11 and under enter for free.
The Count’s Halloween Spooktacular at Sesame Place
Select dates, Sept. 12 – Nov. 1, 2026
Sesame Place
2052 Entertainment Cir, Chula Vista, CA 91911
The Count’s Halloween Spooktacular at Sesame Place is one of the best places for young visitors to enjoy a fun, not-too-scary celebration. Visitors will delight in trick-or-treating around the park, Halloween-themed concerts and parades, the interactive Scarecrow Scavenger Hunt, and memorable picture opportunities with everyone’s most beloved monster friends decked out in costume!
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Best Pumpkin Patches in South Bay, Los Angeles and Orange County
