San Diego Guide to Trick or Treating on Halloween
Halloween on Elm, Carlsbad Village, State and Oak Streets, Carlsbad, October 30, 2-9 pm: This outdoor carnival has costume contests for people and pets, a farmer's market, pumpkin patch and crafts. Trick-or-treating at area businesses is also part of the program. (760) 434-2815.
SeaWorld's Spooktacular, 500 SeaWorld Dr., San Diego: Trick-or-treaters can do so alongside SeaWorld characters. Silly and scary shows, such as "The Pirates 4-D Movie Experience" , will be shown, and "The Search for Captain Lucky's Treasure" is a walk-through adventure that's new for this year. Kids are also afforded the opportunity to come in costume and explore an underwater Halloween "Fantasea." Seaworldparks.com for event schedules and more information.
Balboa Park Halloween Family Day, October 29, 11 am-3 pm: They don't do anything small at Balboa Park, and its third Halloween celebration is no exception. Kids 12 and under will receive free admission to most park museums, where they will be treated to free goodies, storytelling, tours, and hands-on activities. There will also be a costume contest for pooches in Spanish Village and a "Great Pumpkin" parachute drop at the San Diego Air and Space Museum. For more information and pricing, visit balboapark.org
Spooky Sleepover, Balboa Park, October 29, 4 pm-9 am: Ever have so much fun at the park that you don't want to leave? With this sleepover, you'll be able to pull an overnighter. Put together your own treat bag to collect treats from various sources all evening, and a bus tour promises to introduce you to some "strange and scary animals.'' Dinner and breakfast will be available. $139 admission for adults, $119 per child, plus zoo admission for non-members. (619) 718-3000, sandiegozoo.org
Haunted Tales of the Ship, Star of India, 1492 N. Harbor Dr., San Diego, October 28-29 6-10pm: The Maritime Museum of San Diego is hosting something that could safely be called different. A 45-60-minute lantern-led tour, complete with creepy treats will take guests throughout the ship, where they will be told of the ship's frightening past. $8-14. (619) 234-9153, sdmaritime.org
Fall on the Farm, Bates Nut Farm, 15954 Woods Valley Rd., Valley Center, 9 am-5pm: The pumpkin patch will be open through October 31. Weekend entertainment consists of pony rides, barbecue, a scarecrow contest, rock climb, among other activities. (760) 749-3333, batesfarm.com
Once Upon a Halloween Festival, Old Poway Park, 14134 Midland Rd., Poway. October 30, 5-8 pm: There will be a costume parade, carved pumpkin contest, children's games, Edgar Allan Poe readings in this old-fashioned event. Free (858) 668-4576.
Dia De Los Muertos, Old Mission San Luis Rey, 4050 Mission Ave., Oceanside, October 30, 10 am-4 pm: This Mexican cultural celebration, "Day of the Dead," pays homage to those who have passed. This hugely popular, family-friendly event, in its 11th year, features interactive arts and crafts, a mini carnival, numerous venders, food, entertainment and a custom low-rider display from the Siempre Car Club. The club will also display altars honoring their lost loved ones. Free. sanluisrey.org, (760) 757-3659.
