25 Best Local Halloween Festivals in Los Angeles

As Halloween approaches, Los Angeles transforms into a playground of spine-tingling excitement and festive fun. From the haunting thrills of Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights to the family-friendly activities at Boo at the Zoo, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking heart-pounding scares or a community celebration, the city’s vibrant Halloween festivals promise unforgettable experiences. Curious about what awaits you at these local treasures?
Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood
Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood transforms the iconic theme park into a spine-chilling experience that horror fans can’t resist.
You’ll marvel at the intricate costume design, bringing beloved horror characters to life.
As you navigate through haunted mazes, you’ll encounter clever scare tactics that leave you jumping in fright.
Each corner reveals a new thrill, making it a must-visit Halloween event!
The Los Angeles Haunted Hayride
Every October, The Los Angeles Haunted Hayride invites thrill-seekers to experience a unique blend of fun and fright in Griffith Park.
This thrilling event features spooky scenes and interactive haunted attractions that’ll keep you on the edge of your seat.
Perfect for family fun, the hayride combines classic Halloween chills with festive activities, ensuring an unforgettable night under the stars.
Knott’s Scary Farm
As the sun sets and the shadows grow longer, Knott’s Scary Farm transforms into a nightmarish wonderland that beckons thrill-seekers from all around.
With a rich history dating back to 1973, this iconic event features spine-chilling attractions like haunted mazes and live shows.
You’ll feel the adrenaline rush as you explore the dark corners of this legendary Halloween destination.
Halloween in Griffith Park
When the crisp autumn air settles over Griffith Park, the stage is set for a magical Halloween celebration that captures the spirit of the season.
You can explore family-friendly Halloween activities, from pumpkin patches to spooky storytelling.
Don’t miss the enchanting decorations throughout the park, creating a festive atmosphere perfect for making unforgettable memories with friends and loved ones during this festive time.
Spooky Science at the California Science Center
Get ready for a spine-tingling adventure at the California Science Center this Halloween season!
You’ll explore spooky exhibits and thrilling science experiments that’ll captivate your imagination.
Don’t miss out on:
- Creepy crawlers in the insect lab
- Eerie physics demonstrations
- Interactive haunted house simulations
- Ghostly astronomy shows
Prepare for a fun-filled, educational experience that’ll leave you in awe!
The Great Pumpkin Festival at L.A. County Arboretum
Immerse yourself in the festive spirit at the Great Pumpkin Festival held at the L.A. County Arboretum.
This vibrant event offers delightful family activities, including thrilling pumpkin carving sessions that release your creativity.
Wander through the pumpkin patches, enjoy live entertainment, and indulge in seasonal treats.
It’s a perfect way to celebrate Halloween while making lasting memories with your loved ones!
Boo at the Zoo at the L.A. Zoo
After enjoying the festive activities at the Great Pumpkin Festival, head over to the L.A. Zoo for Boo at the Zoo!
You’ll love the enchanting atmosphere filled with spooky zoo decorations and fun animal encounters.
Here’s what to expect:
- Costume parades for kids
- Trick-or-treat stations
- Special animal presentations
- Photo ops with Halloween-themed backdrops
It’s a delightful experience for the whole family!
The Haunted Maze at the Los Angeles County Fair
As you wander through the vibrant grounds of the Los Angeles County Fair, don’t miss the spine-chilling experience of The Haunted Maze.
This thrilling haunted attraction features intricate maze designs that twist and turn, keeping you on edge.
Expect unexpected scares lurking behind corners and immersive themes that elevate your fear factor.
Dare to navigate its dark paths, and see if you can find your way out!
Dia De Los Muertos at Hollywood Forever Cemetery
While you explore the vibrant culture of Los Angeles, don’t overlook the enchanting Dia de los Muertos celebration at Hollywood Forever Cemetery.
This event showcases the cultural significance of honoring loved ones with stunning traditional altars.
You’ll enjoy:
- Colorful decorations
- Live music performances
- Art installations
- Delicious food vendors
Immerse yourself in this rich tradition, celebrating life and remembrance under the stars.
The Festival of Frights at the Los Angeles Public Library
If you’re looking for a different kind of Halloween experience, the Festival of Frights at the Los Angeles Public Library offers a unique blend of literary thrills and spooky fun.
Immerse yourself in spine-chilling spooky storytelling sessions that ignite your imagination.
Don’t forget to show off your creativity in the costume contests, where you might win prizes and enjoy a night filled with ghoulish delight!
Haunted Hollywood Tours
When you step into the world of Haunted Hollywood Tours, you’re not just exploring the glitzy facade of Tinseltown; you’re diving into its eerie past.
Discover the haunted history through:
- Spooky celebrity ghost stories
- Mysterious locations linked to ghostly legends
- Nighttime strolls past haunted landmarks
- Chilling tales from local lore
Get ready for a thrilling adventure that’ll leave you breathless!
The Nightmare Before Christmas Sing-Along
After uncovering the spine-chilling stories of Haunted Hollywood, get ready to embrace the whimsical side of Halloween with “The Nightmare Before Christmas Sing-Along.”
This beloved classic invites you to join Jack Skellington and friends in an enchanting celebration of music and creativity.
Dress up in your favorite Nightmare costumes, sing along to catchy Halloween music, and enjoy a magical night filled with fun!
Halloween Movie Nights at the El Capitan Theatre
Experience the magic of Halloween at the iconic El Capitan Theatre, where classic films come alive in a hauntingly delightful way.
Gather your family for unforgettable movie nights featuring beloved Halloween classics. Don your Halloween costumes and enjoy:
- Special live performances
- Themed concessions
- Exclusive merchandise
- Interactive experiences
Celebrate the season with family outings that create lasting memories at the El Capitan!
Los Angeles Pumpkin Patch Festival
Autumn in Los Angeles wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the vibrant Pumpkin Patch Festival, where families can immerse themselves in the spirit of the season.
Enjoy the thrill of pumpkin carving, creating spooky designs or playful faces.
With hayrides, petting zoos, and delicious fall treats, this festival offers the perfect backdrop for unforgettable memories and delightful fall festivities.
The Pumpkin House at Descanso Gardens
Step into a whimsical wonderland at The Pumpkin House located within the enchanting Descanso Gardens.
Here, you’ll find a delightful array of fall decorations and inspiring pumpkin carving displays.
Don’t miss:
- The intricately carved pumpkins
- The vibrant fall-themed exhibits
- Family-friendly activities
- Seasonal treats from local vendors
It’s a perfect spot to celebrate autumn’s charm!
The 13th Floor Haunted House
Prepare for a spine-chilling adventure at The 13th Floor Haunted House, where terror lurks around every corner.
With its intricate haunted house design, you’ll navigate through eerie rooms filled with chilling props and haunting sounds.
The expertly crafted scare tactics will keep your heart racing as you encounter terrifying creatures.
Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or just curious, this haunted experience promises to leave you breathless.
Halloween Spooktacular at the Natural History Museum
After experiencing the heart-pounding thrills of The 13th Floor Haunted House, you’ll want to shift gears and embrace a different kind of Halloween excitement at the Halloween Spooktacular at the Natural History Museum.
You can enjoy:
- Interactive experiences with spooky decorations
- Educational programs highlighting historical stories
- Halloween crafts for all ages
- Themed snacks to satisfy your sweet tooth
This festival’s perfect for family activities!
The Haunted Trail at San Pedro
As darkness descends, the Haunted Trail at San Pedro transforms into a spine-chilling adventure that thrills even the bravest souls.
Wander through eerie paths filled with haunted attractions that bring ghostly legends to life. Shadows dance, and whispers fill the air as you encounter chilling figures lurking in the darkness.
Are you ready to confront your fears and uncover the trail’s haunting secrets?
The Ghosts of Griffith Park Tour
The Ghosts of Griffith Park Tour invites you to explore one of Los Angeles’ most haunted locales, where history and mystery intertwine.
You’ll encounter chilling tales of Griffith Ghosts and investigate Park Legends through:
- Haunted landmarks
- Eerie stories from locals
- Mysterious sightings
- Historical background
Experience the thrill of the unknown as you wander through this iconic, ghostly park!
Halloween Family Fun Day at the Kidspace Museum
Get ready for a spooktacular day at the Kidspace Museum’s Halloween Family Fun Day, where creativity and excitement come together in a festive celebration!
Immerse yourself in thrilling Halloween crafts that spark your imagination, and gather around for enchanting spooky storytelling that brings chills and giggles.
This event promises to delight kids and parents alike, making unforgettable memories this Halloween season!
The Witches Brew at the Los Angeles Arboretum
Step into a world of enchantment at The Witches Brew event held at the Los Angeles Arboretum, where Halloween magic awaits!
Dress in your best witches costumes and enjoy:
- Spellbinding performances
- Creative potion-making workshops
- Delicious magical brews
- Enchanting garden strolls
Immerse yourself in a whimsical atmosphere filled with excitement, laughter, and the spirit of Halloween!
The Horror Film Festival in Hollywood
As October chills the air, horror enthusiasts flock to Hollywood for the spine-tingling Horror Film Festival, where the thrill of the unknown captivates all who dare to attend.
You’ll experience screenings of horror film classics alongside innovative works from independent horror filmmakers. Each film invites you to explore dark themes, leaving you breathless and enthusiastically anticipating what terrifying tale unfolds next.
The Haunted Hotel Experience at the Hollywood Roosevelt
While many seek thrills from the silver screen, the Haunted Hotel Experience at the Hollywood Roosevelt offers a different kind of fright that’s deeply rooted in history.
Here, you’ll uncover:
- The hotel’s haunted history.
- Ghostly encounters in the hallways.
- Eerie tales from past guests.
- A spine-chilling atmosphere you won’t forget.
Prepare for an unforgettable night filled with spectral surprises!
The Halloween Carnival at Santa Monica Pier
Get ready for a spooktacular evening at the Halloween Carnival on Santa Monica Pier, where vibrant festivities and eerie thrills await you.
Immerse yourself in the excitement as you admire creative Halloween costumes, enjoy carnival games, and savor delicious treats.
With stunning views and the iconic Ferris wheel, this event is a must-see among Santa Monica attractions.
Don’t miss out on the haunting fun!
The Spooktacular Halloween Parade in West Hollywood
Experience the magic of Halloween like never before at the Spooktacular Halloween Parade in West Hollywood, where creativity and festivity collide in a vibrant celebration.
You’ll love the lively atmosphere filled with:
- Stunning parade floats showcasing Halloween traditions
- Elaborate Halloween costumes from the community
- Spooky music setting the mood
- Local vendors offering delicious treats and family activities
Join the nighttime festivities!
Conclusion
As Halloween approaches, Los Angeles transforms into a playground of frightful fun and festive excitement. Whether you’re seeking heart-pounding thrills at Halloween Horror Nights or a family-friendly adventure at Boo at the Zoo, there’s something for everyone. Embrace the spooky spirit, enjoy the creative costumes, and plunge into the unique experiences that only this vibrant city can offer. So grab your friends and family, and make unforgettable memories this Halloween season in LA!