The weather may be beginning to turn, but California - blessed with its moderate temperatures - is almost never too cold for outdoor adventures and street parties. Still, if the comfort of a climate controlled environment is what you seek, our first suggestion might just be the perfect spot to visit this fall.
El Capitan Theatre’s Fall Family Favorite Films
Located in Hollywood
From late September to the middle of October, the theatre shows classic fall family favorite films, including Hocus Pocus and a special 4D version of The Nightmare Before Christmas that features lights, fog, scents, wind, and snow to give an extra sensory experience to the film. Adults can reserve tickets for $15.00 each. Child and senior tickets cost $12.00.
https://elcapitantheatre.com/fallfamilyfavorites
Los Angeles Haunted Hayride
Located in Griffith Park
The haunted hayride, which is filled with actors portraying ghouls and murderous clowns, skews more toward teens and adults than tiny tots. Join in activities like trick or treating (emphasis on the trick) and a ghoulish Mortuary themed haunted house. Tickets range from $29.99 to $109.00 per person and dates are available from late September through the end of October.
https://www.losangeleshauntedhayride.com/
Oktoberfest
Located in Long Beach
This Oktoberfest kicks off its first annual celebration with plenty of beer, German food, and music. The festival runs each Friday, Saturday, and Sunday starting from October 22nd through the end of the month. Take note that Friday and Saturday are only for those 21 years and older, but Sunday is considered their family friendly day and all ages are allowed to attend to enjoy the delicious Bratwurst. Kids under 15 get in for free! General Admission costs $20.00, VIP Admission is $125.00 but comes with a plate of food, a souvenir, parking and more.
https://www.lboktoberfest.net/
The Original Farmer’s Market Fall Festival
Located at Third and Fairfax in Los Angeles
The fall festival is a family friendly event with live music, games, crafts for kids, and a pumpkin patch. The events take place Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from October 22 through the 24th.
https://farmersmarketla.com/events/fall-festival-
The Huntington’s Fall Plant Sale
Located At The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens in San Marino
The Huntington’s grounds can be explored from 10am to 5pm every day except Tuesdays. Tickets range in price depending on your visit falling on a weekend or weekday, your age, and more. General admission is available year round but for that extra special Autumn activity go on Wednesdays from September through October in order to buy plants for your fall garden. Since access to the plant sales stalls comes with your admission, take a moment to enjoy the plants' vibrant seasonal changes in the Botanical Gardens while you are there.
Zombie Crawl
Located in Downtown Long Beach
Enjoy this 21+ pub crawl with free welcome shots at multiple bars and nightclubs. Party the night away in costume with your fellow witches, zombies, and creatures of the night. The zombie crawl begins at 7pm on Saturday, October 29th and lasts until 2am the next day. Tickets range from $15.00 to $35.00.
https://www.longbeachzombiecrawl.com/
Santa Monica Mystery Quest
Located in Downtown Santa Monica
A free scavenger hunt through the streets of downtown Santa Monica leads you on an adventurous quest. Quests are scheduled on the second Friday of each month through 2021. Registration is required.
https://www.santamonicamysteryquest.com/
Lily Rose’s Spooky Tea
Located in Downtown LA at the Wayfarer Hotel
If you love afternoon tea but want the experience of a halloween themed twist, look no further. This tasty afternoon tea will be served throughout the month of October, Thursday - Sunday from 2pm - 5pm, and costs $60.00 per person, with additional costs for alcoholic beverage options. Reservations are required.
https://www.wayfarerdtla.com/upcoming-events
Haute Dog Howl’oween Parade
Located in Marina Vista Park in Long Beach
This parade and costume contest includes both costumed humans and pooches, and is the perfect fall activity for pet lovers. There is a fee to enter the parade but spectators can enjoy the adorable pups and cute outfits for free. The parade is on Sunday, October 31st.
https://www.hautedogs.org/howloween.html
Dia De Los Muertos & Noche de los Muertos
Located at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery in Los Angeles
This Day of the Dead celebration is actually two separate events, a daytime event and an evening event, requiring two separate tickets. Both take place on October 30th. Each event features cultural music and performers, art exhibitions, elaborately decorated altars, traditional dances, food vendors, and more. The daytime event also offers more child friendly activities with the Child’s Plaza. General admission and VIP tickets are available for both events and range from $40.00 to $200.00.
https://www.ladayofthedead.com/
Arboretum Lights
Located at the Arboretum in Arcadia
Explore this sparkling garden of lights with its dazzling displays sure to give both kids and adults alike a feeling of magical wonder. The visual spectacle is perfect for gorgeous Instagram pictures. The event takes place at the end of fall, from November 12th, through the beginning of winter, until January 16th. Prices range from $18.00 to $32.00. Children under two can enter for free.
Covid Note: While events are opening back up, there may still be safety measures in place. Bring a mask and check event websites for further information to ensure easy entry. The information above may be subject to change.
If you have questions or want to offer a suggestion that you want to highlight for us, please leave us a comment!
