Spooky Fun in Los Angeles: A Family Guide to Halloween 2023
Los Angeles transforms into a Halloween wonderland every October, offering endless options for trick-or-treating, haunted attractions, and seasonal festivities. Whether you’re visiting with little ones craving candy or thrill-seekers hunting for scares, here’s your ultimate guide to making the most of Halloween in LA.
Trick-or-Treating Hotspots
LA neighborhoods take Halloween seriously, with many areas going all out for trick-or-treaters. Here are three standout spots:
1. Beverly Hills
The upscale streets of Beverly Hills aren’t just for celebrity sightings—they’re a prime destination for families. Streets like North Canon Drive and Rodeo Drive close to traffic, creating a safe, pedestrian-friendly environment. Expect lavish decorations, themed houses, and high-quality treats (think full-sized candy bars and gourmet snacks). Bonus: The Beverly Hills Police Department often hosts a “Trunk-or-Treat” event with games and photo ops.
2. Pacific Palisades’ “Pumpkin Alley”
Head to Alma Real Drive in Pacific Palisades, nicknamed “Pumpkin Alley” for its mile-long stretch of creatively carved pumpkins. This area is ideal for younger kids, with minimal crowds and neighbors who go all-in on Halloween spirit. Many homes hand out toys alongside candy, making it a hit with parents.
3. Old Pasadena
The historic district of Old Pasadena blends charm with spooky fun. Families can stroll through cobblestone streets lined with Victorian-style homes offering treats. The area also hosts a Halloween Carnival with face painting, live music, and food trucks.
Pro Tip: Arrive early (around 4:30–5 PM) to avoid parking hassles and maximize candy-collecting time!
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Haunted Houses: From Kid-Friendly to Spine-Chilling
LA’s haunted attractions cater to all ages and scare tolerances. Here’s a breakdown:
For Families:
– Knott’s Spooky Farm (Buena Park)
A daytime event at Knott’s Berry Farm, this transformed theme park offers mild scares perfect for kids under 12. Activities include a Monster Puppet Show, costume parades, and trick-or-treating stations. Even the park’s iconic Snoopy gets into the spirit with a Halloween-themed meet-and-greet.
– The Haunted Shack at Griffith Park
This free, family-friendly haunted house near the Griffith Park Merry-Go-Round is run by local volunteers. Expect playful ghosts, friendly “zombies,” and pumpkin-carving demos. Suitable for preschoolers and up.
For Teens and Adults:
– Universal Studios Halloween Horror Nights (Universal City)
A legendary event featuring terrifying mazes based on films like The Exorcist and Stranger Things. Not for the faint of heart—this one’s strictly ages 13+.
– The 17th Door (Fullerton)
Dubbed LA’s most intense haunted house, this immersive experience requires guests to sign a waiver. Themes change yearly, but past horrors included live actors, confined spaces, and sensory overload. Ages 18+ only.
– West Hollywood Carnaval (Santa Monica Boulevard)
While not a haunted house, this adults-only street party on October 31 features outrageous costumes, live DJs, and themed bars. Leave the kids at home for this one!
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Family-Friendly Halloween Activities
Beyond candy and scares, LA offers creative ways to celebrate the season together:
1. Pumpkin Patches & Fall Festivals
– Mr. Bones Pumpkin Patch (Culver City): More than just pumpkins, this spot has carnival games, pony rides, and a “spooky trail” for toddlers.
– Underwood Family Farms (Moorpark): Pick pumpkins, navigate corn mazes, and meet farm animals. Their Fall Harvest Festival includes pumpkin catapults and pie-eating contests.
2. Boo at the L.A. Zoo (Griffith Park)
On weekends in October, the zoo hosts animal meet-and-greets, magic shows, and treat stations. Don’t miss the “Creepy Crawly” exhibit showcasing tarantulas and snakes—perfect for curious kids!
3. Outdoor Movie Nights
Catch Halloween classics under the stars at venues like Street Food Cinema or the Hollywood Forever Cemetery. Films like Hocus Pocus and Casper screen with themed food trucks and costume contests.
4. Spooky Science at the California Science Center
Their annual Spooky Science event lets kids experiment with “mad scientist” activities, like creating slime or launching pumpkin rockets. Educational and entertaining!
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Final Tips for a Safe & Fun Halloween
– Check Local Schedules: Some neighborhoods, like Beverly Hills, restrict trick-or-treating to residents only. Verify event details online.
– Dress for Comfort: LA evenings can be chilly—layer costumes with lightweight jackets.
– Candy Check: Many hospitals and police stations offer free candy X-ray services to ensure treats are safe.
– Traffic Alert: Plan for heavy traffic on Halloween night, especially in West Hollywood and Santa Monica. Use rideshares or public transit when possible.
Whether you’re hunting for candy, screams, or pumpkin-spiced memories, Los Angeles delivers a Halloween experience like no other. From historic neighborhoods to world-class theme parks, there’s something eerie for everyone. Just don’t forget to bring your bravest costume—and an empty candy bag!
Have a spook-tacular time in LA this Halloween! 🎃
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