Spooktacular Halloween Fun in Los Angeles: Your Ultimate Guide
Los Angeles transforms into a playground of pumpkins, costumes, and spine-tingling thrills during Halloween. Whether you’re hunting for candy, craving haunted adventures, or searching for family-friendly festivities, the City of Angels delivers. Here’s a curated list of the best spots to celebrate Halloween in LA.
Trick-or-Treating Hotspots
Beverly Hills
For a classic Halloween experience, head to the tree-lined streets of Beverly Hills. Neighborhoods like North Rexford Drive and Beverly Hills Gateway are legendary for their elaborate decorations, friendly residents, and overflowing candy bowls. Many streets close to traffic, creating a safe, pedestrian-friendly environment. Pro tip: Arrive early—crowds can get big, but the atmosphere is worth it!
Pacific Palisades
Families flock to this coastal community for its charming, walkable streets and generous candy offerings. The “Treats in the Streets” event on Halloween night features closed roads, live music, and even themed photo booths. It’s a relaxed, community-focused vibe perfect for younger kids.
South Pasadena
Known for its historic homes and small-town feel, South Pasadena’s Halloween scene is a local favorite. The streets near Mission Street and Fair Oaks Avenue go all out with spooky decor, and neighbors often compete for the most creative displays. Bonus: The nearby South Pasadena Library hosts a pumpkin-carving contest earlier in the day.
Haunted Houses & Scary Attractions
Universal Studios Hollywood: Halloween Horror Nights
If you’re craving screams, Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights is a must. This immersive event features terrifying haunted mazes inspired by horror films like The Exorcist and Stranger Things, along with scare zones populated by creepy characters. Note: This is best suited for teens and adults due to its intensity. Check age restrictions before bringing younger kids.
The Queen Mary’s Dark Harbor
Docked in Long Beach, the historic Queen Mary ship becomes a haunted spectacle during October. Dark Harbor combines maritime ghost stories with haunted mazes, live entertainment, and themed bars. The “Intrepid” maze, set deep in the ship’s engine room, is a standout. For families, daytime “Monster Brunch” events offer lighter scares and kid-friendly activities.
Knott’s Scary Farm
Located in Buena Park, Knott’s Berry Farm morphs into Knott’s Scary Farm after dark. While the park’s roller coasters run at night, the real draw is its haunted mazes and roaming “monsters.” For a tamer experience, visit during the daytime for Knott’s Spooky Farm, a family-friendly event with costume parades and pumpkin patches.
Family-Friendly Halloween Activities
Disneyland Resort: Oogie Boogie Bash
A short drive from LA in Anaheim, Disneyland’s Oogie Boogie Bash is a ticketed, after-hours event perfect for families. Kids can trick-or-treat around the park, watch a Villains-themed parade, and meet Disney characters in Halloween costumes. The event also includes exclusive ride access and low crowds compared to regular park hours.
Boo at the LA Zoo
The Los Angeles Zoo hosts “Boo at the LA Zoo” on weekends in October. Kids can wear costumes, enjoy animal encounters, and explore themed treat stations. The zoo’s “Spooky Science” shows and pumpkin-carving demos add educational flair to the fun.
Underwood Family Farms’ Fall Festival
Venture to Moorpark for Underwood Family Farms’ month-long Fall Festival. This working farm offers pumpkin picking, corn mazes, tractor rides, and a “Halloween Haunt” area with friendly decorations. It’s an ideal spot for younger children to enjoy autumn traditions without the scares.
Hollywood Forever Cemetery: Día de los Muertos
For a cultural twist, visit Hollywood Forever Cemetery’s Día de los Muertos celebration (typically held the weekend before Halloween). This vibrant event honors Mexican traditions with altars, live music, and art installations. While not strictly Halloween-focused, it’s a beautiful way to introduce kids to global customs.
Tips for a Safe & Fun Halloween
– Timing: Many neighborhoods start trick-or-treating as early as 3 PM. Check local social media groups for exact times.
– Parking: Popular areas like Beverly Hills get crowded. Use ride-sharing apps or arrive early to snag street parking.
– Weather: LA evenings can be chilly! Bring layers for little ones in costumes.
– Alternatives: If you’re staying downtown, check out Grand Park’s “Halloween Festival” for games, live performances, and candy giveaways.
Final Thoughts
Los Angeles offers something for every Halloween enthusiast. From storybook trick-or-treating in Beverly Hills to heart-pounding haunts at Universal Studios, your trip can balance frights and delights. For families, mixing low-key activities (like zoo visits or pumpkin patches) with one “big” event ensures a memorable holiday without overwhelming younger kids. Whatever you choose, don’t forget to snap photos—LA’s Halloween magic is unforgettable!
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