As Halloween approaches, we’re diving into the spooky and whimsical side of the holiday, highlighting events that range from family-friendly fun to spine-chilling thrills. With trick-or-treating being a beloved tradition, many parents are seizing the chance to explore festive decorations and even peek into the homes of Silicon Valley’s tech elite. Here are some of the top spots around the Bay Area to experience the Halloween spirit this year, promising a mix of laughter and screams.
**San Francisco:**
California Academy of Sciences’ “SuperNatural” – The California Academy of Sciences is a premier destination for an enchanting Halloween experience filled with quirky scientists and rare specimens. This event features giant pumpkin carvings, coral reef diving projects, a silent disco, treasure hunts, and activities for kids like face painting and candy. Adults can also enjoy gourmet food and wine. Join the spooky fun on October 26 from 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM at 55 Music Concourse Drive, San Francisco.
**Half Moon Bay:**
Lemos Farm’s Pumpkin Patch – Families can immerse themselves in an assortment of activities including pony rides, train rides, and a petting zoo. To cater to various preferences, there are two themed haunted houses—one scary and one not so frightening. Open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM at 12320 San Mateo Rd, Half Moon Bay.
**Santa Clara:**
Great America’s “Tricks and Treats” – This autumn highlight features a variety of performances, character interactions, costume contests, and seasonal food tastings, all while ensuring that candy is plentiful! The event runs from now until October 26, Fridays through Sundays, located at 4701 Great America Pkwy, Santa Clara.
**Palo Alto:**
Visit the Homes of Tech Moguls – A quintessential Halloween tradition involves children dressing up and going door-to-door for candy. In Silicon Valley, this means knocking on the doors of tech giants. Notably, the home of former Yahoo CEO Marissa Mayer, and the late Apple co-founder Steve Jobs’ residence are must-see spots. Mayer is known for generously giving out high-end plush toys, making it worth the wait—even if it means standing in line for over two hours.
**San Jose:**
Winchester Mystery House’s “Unhinged: Hotel” – This haunted hotel-themed Halloween event includes an indoor maze, an outdoor haunted area, food, and drinks. It runs from now until November 2 at 525 S. Winchester Blvd, San Jose.
**Newark:**
Fear Overload Scream Park – Back for another year, Newark’s haunted attraction features two new themed houses—Darkmoor Penitentiary and Slotch Sanatorium. Dimly lit in abandoned, dilapidated buildings, the atmosphere is set for terror, enhanced by live actors to test your courage—or prompt some delightful screams! Open from now until November 2 (excluding October 15 and 22) at 2086 Newpark Mall, Newark.
**Oakland:**
Halloween Jam at Children’s Fairyland – This year’s event features special performances, puppet shows, inflatables, candy stations, games, and plenty of surprises! The festivities will take place on October 19-20 from 10 AM to 4 PM, and from October 25-27 from 10 AM to 5 PM at 699 Bellevue Ave, Oakland.
**Berkeley:**
Harvest Festival – Hosted by the City of Berkeley, this inclusive event features a kids’ zone with pumpkin decorating, face painting, and carnival games. Join the fun on October 19 from 11 AM to 4 PM at Cedar Rose Park, 1300 Rose Street, Berkeley.
As these events unfold, Silicon Valley continues to be a hub for Halloween excitement, blending community fun with the thrills of the season. Don’t miss out on the laughter and screams that await!
