Come soak up some Vitamin D in California's Beach City this October all while enjoying 100+ Kids Free San Diego offers, Halloween happenings, Dia de los Muertos celebrations and more awesome events.
Due to ongoing event cancellations and postponements regarding Covid-19, events listed on this page have not been updated for the current year. Please check with event organizers for the most up-to-date information.
Don't miss these exciting events happening in San Diego this October.
When: October 1-31, 2019
Activate unlimited recess vibes and unbelievable family savings with Kids Free San Diego—where kids eat, stay and play for free all October long. With more than 100 deals at popular attractions, hotels and restaurants, and special savings on awesome activities, it’s the perfect time to take a sunny getaway to San Diego and activate smile mode for the whole family.
When: October 11-27, 2019
Stay until 9:00 PM and have fun with a cupcake walk, an amazing bubble dance party, a “gently haunted” path, amazing acrobats, a variety of music, special treats, and more!
When: October 15-20, 2019
SDiFF offers world premieres, never before seen studio releases, the best in independent filmmaking and a full schedule of glamorous parties and intimate events with filmmakers.
When: October 19 - November 4, 2019
Honor your lost loved ones and immerse yourself in traditional and authentic Mexican Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebrations throughout San Diego.
When: October 24-27, 2019
The USA Ultimate National Championships represent the pinnacle of elite ultimate in North America and crowns champions in three divisions: men’s, mixed and women's.
When: Thru October 27, 2019
For weekends brimming with family fun, SeaWorld's Halloween Spooktacular thrills with spooky live shows, Halloween activities and trick-or-treating for the little ones throughout the park in a safe, family-friendly environment.
When: Thru October 26, 2019
Every Saturday night, LEGOLAND® California Resort creates Halloween excitement with live entertainment, character meet-and-greets, costume contests, and treat stations during extended Park open hours!
When: Thru October 31, 2019
From family-friendly fright fests and historically-haunted tours, to terror-filled scream zones and wild, trick-or-treat parties, Halloween in San Diego is crazy fun for ghouls and kids of all ages.
When: Thru October 6, 2019
See original, site-specific dances in unique public spaces; from stairways to fountains to parking garages!
When: October 4 - November 20, 2019
The magic of the season will transform the 94-year-old seaside park into a festive fall experience with shades of autumn leaves, hay bales and freshly harvested pumpkins; plus, FREE activities like trick-or-treating, live entertainment, kids’ activities and more!
When: October 4 - Nov 2, 2019
The Haunted Hotel has been "disturbed", completely upset, thrown into disorderly chaos...every possessed zombie, every dead freak, every spider web, and every last drop of blood have been unearthed and re-located.
When: October 4-6, 2019
San Diego County's most traditional Oktoberfest - fun for the whole family! Live German Oom-Pah music, awesome German food, German beers on tap, and so much more!
When: October 5-27, 2019
Join the Pacific Southwest Railway Museum Association in the Pumpkin Express Halloween Celebration complete with a train ride, pumpkin patch and more.
When: October 5-26, 2019
Haunted Hayride, Pumpkin Seed Spitting Contest, Apple Bobbing Contest, Harvest Hoedown with Jug Band, Apple Cider Pressing and Tasting.
When: October 5, 2019
Pacific BeachFest has something for everyone including a fish taco contest, surf competition, beach volleyball, craft beer, kids activities and music!
When: October 5, 2019
The Carlsbad Rotary Oktoberfest, a fall tradition, will bring thousands of people to enjoy German food (and beer!), live music, and entertainment for children.
When: October 9-27, 2019
The Del Mar International Horse Show attracts Olympic veterans and world-class athletes, competing head to head for a spot in the World Cup Finals!
When: October 10-13, 2019
Art San Diego will welcome an exciting group of local, national, and international exhibitors, showcasing contemporary work from hundreds of artists, offering art aficionados and collectors an unparalleled opportunity to explore, experience, experiment, and discover.
When: October 10, 2019
Take a culinary trip around the world sampling from Coronado bistros. Meander along Orange Avenue or take a ride on the complimentary trolley. This will be a night to remember so come and bring your friends!
When: October 11-13, 2019
The annual Polish Festival in San Diego is a wonderful cultural celebration in Pacific Beach all about Polish culture, traditions and cuisine.
When: October 11-13, 2019
Each Harvest Festival features hundreds of artisans exhibiting American handmade items, strolling entertainment, festival food and a Kidzone.
When: October 11-12, 2019
The Ocean Beach Oktoberfest is a two-day, eclectic, beachside festival with a variety of exciting activities, contests and entertainment.
When: October 12-14, 2019
Latin American Art Fair is an annual event that presents outdoor exhibits, painting, sculpture, photography and printmaking as well as folk art, crafts, performance and culinary arts of Latin American countries.
When: October 12-13, 2019
Enjoy 150+ juried artists from around the globe, 3D chalk art displays, interactive art murals, non-stop live music, family art center, roving entertainment, gourmet food court, and a wine, craft beer, and spirits garden featuring local brews, distilleries and global wineries.
When: October 12, 2019
On the Carmel Valley Trail 15K, 10K and 5K, participants will experience a combination of single track and dirt service road trails through beautiful open spaces.
When: October 12, 2019
In one afternoon, Taste of North Park invites you to enjoy 50+ food tastes from some of San Diego's best restaurants and craft beer samples from 15 local brewers.
When: October 13, 2019
Raptor Ridge is an awesome trail racing experience. The first 4 miles and last 4 miles are flat as a pancake. Too bad Raptor Ridge is right in the middle!
When: October 13, 2019
Have a howling good time in nature this Halloween season with the return of our 8th Annual Not-So-Scary Estuary Family Discovery Day. Discover that creepy crawly creatures are not-so-scary after all.
When: October 15-27, 2019
The San Diego Italian Film Festival showcases the best of new Italian film with a series of premieres ranging from dramas and comedies to documentaries.
When: October 17-20, 2019
An exhilarating weekend of immersive and site-based work designed to break barriers by moving beyond the boundaries of a traditional four-walled theatre space and the physical confines of the Playhouse's facilities.
When: October 18-20, 2019
An annual salute to Borrego including the beautiful State Park that surrounds the town, with an open invitation to come and share the Borrego Experience.
When: October 19-26, 2019
The evening will be full of ghostly tales presented by our award-winning and theatrical Living History Education staff. They will recount tales of the Star of India’s past including the tale of a young crewman falling to his death.
When: October 19, 2019
Explore majestic hills, a stunning lake and exceptional running trails along the Chula Vista Park District while participating in either the 25 Mile Road Bike Ride, the 18 Mile mountain bike ride or the 5K community run/walk. Plus, enjoy a Technology & Innovation Fair!
When: October 19, 2019
We dare you to try and keep your wits about you while strolling through the treelined streets of Third Avenue Village. Over 20 nefarious characters and uncanny activities will torment and trick thrill seekers of all ages.
When: October 19, 2019
La Vista Memorial Park and Mortuary Dia de los Muertos will provide world renown programs of music, folk dancing, entertainment, food and hand crafted items.
When: October 20, 2019
Coastal and crafty, SaltDog Classic brings a wonderful lineup of musicians, artists, and local businesses together for a day of community fun.
When: October 20, 2019
Since 1989, the Escondido Grand Avenue Festival has brought live entertainment, over 400 vendors, children's rides and activities, and food from around the world to the downtown tree-lined streets of Escondido.
When: October 20, 2019
Join Challenged Athletes Foundation at beautiful La Jolla Cove for a fun and sweat-drenching 4.5 hour stationary cycling marathon with 100 riders and over 50 challenged athletes.
When: October 20, 2019
The San Diego Triathlon Challenge has raised the funds that have allowed 9,500+ challenged athletes around the world to make it to the starting line.
When: October 20, 2019
This annual event will feature the finest food artisans from across California’s broad culinary spectrum, demonstrating, discussing, and tasting their way through the vast array of premium food and wine products available.
When: October 24-31, 2019
Be transported back to the nineteenth century with an October visit to "the most haunted house in America," (Life, 2005), where the specters are authentic and the mystery is all in the history.
When: October 25-31, 2019
If you love Halloween, dining and the nightlife, do not miss San Diego's #1 Halloween Celebration! Your San Diego Zombie Crawl ticket includes a guided route, 25+ premier club admissions, welcome shots + food and beverage specials in the Gaslamp.
When: October 25-27, 2019
Discover a sea of glowing monsters (big and small), get sticky with slime, enjoy spooky stories, and boo-gie down to live music, all while having a monstrously good time.
When: October 25, 2019
Enjoy a wild and ghoulish night under the stars with the rescued exotic animals of Lions Tigers & Bears. The annual Spooky Campover is a family favorite you do not want to miss! Enjoy pumpkin carving (don’t forget your pumpkin), s’mores by the campfire, and more.
When: October 25, 2019
HauntFest on Main is an exciting family friendly event in Downtown El Cajon with a pumpkin patch, costume contest, kidz zone, rides, entertainment and more!
When: October 25, 2019
This fun and safe Halloween event makes it possible for urban families to enjoy authentic trick-or-treating fun as Little Italy businesses along historic India Street open their doors to give out candy and Halloween treats.
When: October 25, 2019
Show your wristband at over 10 different bars and nightclubs for free entry and exclusive drink specials including free welcome shots at select venues. No schedule – you and friends roam the streets at your own pace and party non-stop all night.
When: October 26, 2019
Embrace Mexican culture during Sherman Heights' Dia de los Muertos with a traditional celebration, official altar blessing, live performances, food and more.
When: October 26, 2019
Clad in white t-shirts, adults, kids and strollers run, walk, dance and play across 3 miles of absolute fun!
When: October 26, 2019
Vote for your favorite mac n' cheese while enjoying tasty beverages, music, and beautiful San Diego weather!
When: October 26, 2019
Bringing together an array of Mexican-themed artisanal crafter purveyors from throughout the US, popular food trucks with a regional foodie-following, and a select choice of beer, mezcal, and tequila vendors in our spirit cantina, the Day of the Dead Festival North Park brings out a large crowd, welcoming people from all around the Southwestern United States.
When: October 26, 2019
Featuring dozens of free craft projects for kids, Day of the Dead-themed displays and activities, costume contests and parades, carnival games with prizes, live entertainment, and food trucks. Participating museums also offer free admission to children 12 and under with paying adult.
When: October 26, 2019
A spooktacular event brimming with family fun! This kid-friendly jamboree will offer fun and frights for all ages and feature a costume contest, carnival games, arts and crafts, music, refreshments and more.
When: October 26, 2019
WCKD Village is shaping up to deliver an over-the-top Halloween experience like never before. Grab your crew, transform your look and prepare to take a journey into the unknown because this Halloween is about to Get WCKD!
When: October 26, 2019
Guaranteed to be a Fang-tastic evening filled with ghouls, goblins and spine chilling scares. You won't want to miss this year Nightmare on Normal St.
When: October 26, 2019
Celebrate Halloween at San Diego's famous haunted hotel. Don your best costume and join us for the 9th annual, adults-only, Hallo-wine and Spirits Party full of spooky surroundings, great eats and dancing until you drop at the Hotel Del Del Coronado!
When: October 26, 2019
Celebrate life with live performances, art-making workshops, a student art exhibit, artist demos, food trucks and more at the Encinitas Dia de los Muertos.
When: October 27, 2019
Grab your oars and paddles to row your way through a 4.5 kilometer course through Mission Bay, passing by the water side of Sea World, around Vacation Island and Paradise Point, finishing just North of Ski Beach, and all for a good cause!
When: October 27, 2019
The annual Trick or Trot 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run promises spooktacular fun for the whole family. Costumes encouraged! Prizes will be awarded for race winners as well as best costumes.
When: October 27, 2019
Dia de los Muertos, or "Day of the Dead," is an all-day community event with diverse cultural traditions, remembering and honoring deceased loved ones.
When: October 27, 2019
2.5 hour cruise includes cocktails and snacks available for purchase, DJ entertainment featuring D-Rock from Z90 & Zach from 91X, costume contest with prizes (so dress to impress!), and ever-changing bay views.
When: October 31, 2019
Celebrate Halloween with a spooky party cruise on the sparkling waters of Mission Bay, with multiple floors of drink specials, live DJs, and lighted dance floors, accompanied by stunning views of the bay.
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Our Getaway Package is waiting for you when the time is right and you need a change of scenery! Book this package to include everything you need – a clean and comfortable room, daily breakfast,...
Join us for San Diego’s original culinary tasting tour on Saturday, August 8th at the 26th Annual Taste of Gaslamp! Get your appetites ready for a downright delicious opportunity to explore the...
The world’s top professional female surfers are back in Oceanside, CA for the 13th Supergirl Surf Pro, a 3-day event August 14-16, 2020. The weekend will be jam-packed with world-class...
Experience Bike the Bay, a scenic bayside ride, and also enjoy a rare opportunity to ride over the San Diego-Coronado Bay Bridge.
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