12 Fun Halloween Activities In California

Halloween may only come once a year, but it's never too early to start planning for the spookiest holiday of the year. California, known for its year-round sunshine, beautiful beaches, and vibrant cities, has plenty of activities to get into the Halloween spirit. Whether you're looking for a frighteningly fun night out with friends or a spooky adventure with the family, we've compiled a list of 12 exciting Halloween activities in California that are guaranteed to scare you silly and leave you with unforgettable memories. Get ready to experience the chills and thrills of Halloween like never before in the Golden State!

Universal Studios Halloween Horror Nights - Los Angeles

Universal Studios Halloween Horror Nights is one of the most popular Halloween events in Los Angeles. Set in one of the biggest movie studios in the world, this event attracts thousands of visitors every year. It is a must-visit destination for everyone looking to experience the ultimate Halloween scare.

The event features several mazes based on popular horror movies and TV shows, as well as terrifying scare zones, live shows, and various other activities. Guests get to enter worlds inspired by iconic horror franchises such as "Stranger Things," "Halloween," "The Walking Dead," and "American Horror Story." Everything in the mazes and scare zones is designed to frighten and terrify visitors, from jump scares to terrifying visuals, creepy sound effects, and frightening actors.

The mazes are usually the biggest attraction of Halloween Horror Nights. Each year, new mazes are added to the lineup to keep things fresh and exciting. In 2021, guests can expect to navigate through a maze inspired by the hit Netflix series "The Haunting of Hill House," as well as a terrifying maze themed around the iconic horror movie "The Exorcist." Other mazes include "Texas Chainsaw Massacre," "Universal Monsters: The Bride of Frankenstein Lives," and "The Curse of Pandora's Box."

Scare zones are also a popular feature of Halloween Horror Nights. These areas of the park are designed to put visitors on edge as they are stalked by creepy characters. Some of the notable scare zones in 2021 include "Demon City," "Chainsaw Rangers," and "Silver Scream Queenz."

In addition to the mazes and scare zones, Halloween Horror Nights also features live shows, such as the fan-favorite "Jabbawockeez" dance crew and the "Halloween Nightmare Fuel" fireworks show. There's also delicious food and drink options available throughout the park to keep visitors fueled up throughout the night.

One thing to keep in mind when planning a visit to Halloween Horror Nights is that the event is not recommended for children under 13 or anyone who is easily frightened. Additionally, the event often sells out in advance, so it's a good idea to purchase tickets early.

Overall, Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios in Los Angeles is an event that's not to be missed for anyone looking to experience a thrill this Halloween season. With its harrowing mazes, terrifying scare zones, and other bone-chilling attractions, it's a destination that's sure to give visitors a hauntingly good time.

Knott's Scary Farm - Buena Park

If you are looking for a thrilling way to celebrate Halloween in California, look no further than Knott's Scary Farm in Buena Park. This popular Halloween event has been running for over four decades and is known for its terrifying mazes, scare zones, and live shows.

One of the main attractions at Knott's Scary Farm is the mazes. These are designed to test your bravery as you wander through dark corridors and encounter actors dressed up as terrifying monsters and creatures. Each maze has its own theme and is guaranteed to leave you screaming. Popular mazes at Knott's Scary Farm include Dark Ride, The Depths, and Paranormal Inc.

If you prefer to be scared out in the open, you can explore one of the scare zones such as Forsaken Lake or Carnevil. These areas are filled with frightening decorations, creepy music, and of course, actors who will frighten you at every turn.

In addition to the mazes and scare zones, Knott's Scary Farm also features live shows. These shows are designed to immerse you in a spooky atmosphere and feature talented actors and special effects. Some of the popular shows include The Hanging and Puppet Up! - Uncensored.

For those who want a less intense experience, there are also family-friendly Halloween attractions at Knott's Berry Farm. These include Camp Snoopy Halloween, Spooky Hollow Maze, and the Peanuts Meet and Greet.

If you are planning to visit Knott's Scary Farm, make sure to buy your tickets in advance as they often sell out quickly. The event typically runs from September to November, with special Halloween hours. Make sure you arrive early and prepare to be scared out of your mind!

In conclusion, Knott's Scary Farm in Buena Park is a must-visit for anyone looking to celebrate Halloween in California. With its terrifying mazes, scary scare zones, and thrilling live shows, you are guaranteed to have a memorable and scary experience.

Queen Mary's Dark Harbor - Long Beach

If you're looking for a spooky and exciting way to celebrate Halloween in California, look no further than the Queen Mary's Dark Harbor in Long Beach. This annual event is considered one of the top Halloween attractions in the country, and for good reason.

The Queen Mary, a retired ocean liner that now serves as a hotel and museum, is transformed into a haunted attraction for the month of October. The event boasts six mazes, two scare zones and plenty of entertainment for attendees.

One of the most popular mazes is Intrepid, which takes place aboard the Queen Mary herself. This maze is known for its unique concept and captivating storyline, which involves the ship's crew and passengers facing a series of terrifying events. Another popular maze is Lullaby, which takes place in a haunted nursery and is sure to give you goosebumps as you navigate through the creepy hallways.

In addition to the mazes, the event also features several bars and lounges, where you can grab a drink and relax amid the spooky atmosphere. There are also live performances throughout the event, including aerial acrobatics, fire shows, and live music.

If you're a thrill-seeker looking for a scary and unforgettable Halloween experience, Queen Mary's Dark Harbor is the perfect choice. This event is recommended for adults and older children, as some of the content can be quite intense. However, there are also kid-friendly activities available during certain hours, such as pumpkin carving and trick-or-treating.

Tickets for Dark Harbor vary depending on the date and time you choose to attend, with prices ranging from $24-44. If you're planning on attending, be sure to purchase your tickets in advance as the event often sells out.

Overall, if you're in California for Halloween, Queen Mary's Dark Harbor is a must-visit attraction for any thrill-seeker or Halloween enthusiast. With its elaborate mazes, spooky decor, and thrilling entertainment, you're sure to have a hauntingly good time.

Disneyland's Oogie Boogie Bash - Anaheim

Halloween is just around the corner, and there's no better place to celebrate it than in California. Known for its lively parties and events, the Golden State provides a perfect blend of spooky and fun experiences for all ages. If you're looking for a Halloween event that's unique and thrilling, look no further than Disneylands Oogie Boogie Bash in Anaheim.

This year, the Oogie Boogie Bash takes place from September 9th to October 31st, featuring an array of frightful activities that will keep you entertained all night long. The event was inspired by the popular Disney movie, The Nightmare Before Christmas, and features an exclusive "World of Color" show, laser and pyrotechnic effects, live music, and dances.

What sets the Oogie Boogie Bash apart from other Halloween events is the opportunity to meet and interact with your favorite Disney Villains, who have taken over the park. Captain Hook, Maleficent, Hades, and other infamous characters will roam around Disney California Adventure Park, offering you the chance to take selfies and photos. The Disney Villains Dance Party is another highlight, where you can dance with your favorite villainous personalities.

For the little ones, Disney has created several opportunities for trick-or-treating, with magical locations scattered all over the park. They can join in a costume parade and participate in other kid-friendly activities that are sure to leave them with memories to cherish for a lifetime.

To participate in the Oogie Boogie Bash, you will need a special ticket, which offers access to all the Halloween-themed attractions and events. Also, be sure to follow Disney's costume guidelines, which restrict certain items like face paint, masks, and weapons. Disneyland is known for its friendly staff, so if you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to ask them for help.

In conclusion, if you want to add some magic to your Halloween this year, be sure to grab your tickets to the Oogie Boogie Bash. Disney has gone above and beyond to create an unforgettable Halloween experience that blends the spookiness of the season with the fun and excitement of its theme parks. So, gather your family and friends, put on your best costumes, and join the celebration at Disney California Adventure Park.

Six Flags Magic Mountain Fright Fest - Valencia

As October begins to roll around and thoughts start turning towards Halloween, one destination that immediately comes to mind for many Californians is Six Flags Magic Mountain's Fright Fest in Valencia. The annual event offers a range of spooky attractions and performances, making it a must-visit spot for anyone seeking a thrilling Halloween experience.

One of the most popular aspects of Fright Fest is the park's haunted mazes, which offer visitors a chance to step into a world of frightening creatures and scenarios. Depending on the year, the mazes may include themes such as zombies, clowns, or possessed dolls, each designed to deliver plenty of jump scares and adrenaline-pumping moments.

In addition to the mazes, Fright Fest also features several scare zones throughout the park. These areas are filled with performers in elaborate Halloween costumes and makeup, who roam the streets and interact with visitors in spooky, sometimes comedic ways. It's not uncommon to see a werewolf creeping up on an unsuspecting guest or a group of ghosts dancing in the streets.

For those seeking even more intense Halloween thrills, Six Flags Magic Mountain has several rides that receive spooky makeovers during Fright Fest. The most notable of these is likely Twisted Colossus, which becomes the "Chupacabra" during the event. The ride features new music, lighting, and effects that make it feel like a completely different experience than the one you may be used to during the regular season.

Throughout the evening, Fright Fest also offers a range of shows and performances. From acrobatic spectacles to horror-themed magic shows, there's something for everyone to enjoy. And of course, no Halloween event would be complete without plenty of themed food and drink options, which Fright Fest delivers in spades.

Overall, Six Flags Magic Mountain's Fright Fest offers a complete Halloween experience that is sure to thrill and delight visitors of all ages. With so much to see and do, it's no wonder that the event has become an annual tradition for many Californians. If you're looking for a chance to get into the Halloween spirit this year, be sure to add Fright Fest to your list of destinations.

Winchester Mystery House Flashlight Tours - San Jose

As Halloween approaches, many people are looking for unique and thrilling experiences to celebrate the spooky holiday. If you're in California and seeking a spooky adventure, the Winchester Mystery House Flashlight Tours in San Jose might be just what you're looking for.

The Winchester Mystery House, located in San Jose, is a historical landmark with a unique and eerie history. The mansion was built by Sarah Winchester, the widow of gun magnate William Winchester. According to local legends, Sarah believed that she was haunted by the spirits of those who were killed by her husband's guns. To avoid these ghosts, she continuously added to the mansion's already massive structure in confusion, creating a labyrinth of baffling architecture.

Today, visitors from all over the world flock to the Winchester Mystery House to witness this strange and fascinating building. But during the Halloween season, the mansion's usual tours are transformed into a spooky and thrilling experience: the Flashlight Tours.

During the Flashlight Tours, visitors are given only a flashlight to light their way as they navigate the eerie halls and secret passages of the Winchester Mystery House. The tours are held at night, adding to the ambiance and spookiness of the experience. Visitors will also get to explore certain areas of the mansion that are off-limits during regular tours.

The Flashlight Tours at the Winchester Mystery House have become increasingly popular in recent years, drawing in Halloween enthusiasts from all over California and beyond. In fact, tickets for these tours often sell out weeks in advance. If you're interested in attending, it's best to grab your tickets as soon as possible.

Overall, the Winchester Mystery House Flashlight Tours in San Jose offer a unique and spine-tingling adventure for those seeking a spooky and memorable Halloween experience. Don't miss out on this chance to explore the eerie depths of one of the most mysterious buildings in California.

The Haunted Hotel - San Diego

Halloween is approaching fast and if you're in California then we have a recommendation for you! The Haunted Hotel in San Diego is the perfect destination to satisfy your thrill of the spooky season. This hotel is perfect for everyone who wants to experience an actual haunted house. So, are you ready for the scare?

Located at 424 Market St., The Haunted Hotel has been listed as one of the top haunted attractions in the country by Haunt World Magazine. The building was built in 1913 and used to be a hotel before it was converted into a haunted house. The hotel is believed to be haunted by multiple spirits and has had many paranormal sightings reported over the years.

As you venture through the haunted halls of The Haunted Hotel, you will be faced with a plethora of terrifying creatures, ghosts, and goblins who will be waiting for you at every turn. The incredible makeup and costume design of the actors will make you forget that you are in a simulation.

The Haunted Hotel is not only scary but also interactive as you will feel like a part of the setting. The experience is complemented with amazing special effects and sound design to provide a fully immersive experience. If you're unsure, this haunted house is not recommended for anyone with a heart condition or pregnant women.

However, if you do decide to check out The Haunted Hotel, be sure to buy your tickets online ahead of time. Due to Covid-19 restrictions, this year's experience is by reservation only, so be quick before they sell out.

To sum it up, if you're looking for an ultimate Halloween experience in California, think no further than The Haunted Hotel in San Diego. This spooky location provides the ultimate Halloween-themed experience that will leave you shivering for days!

Haunted Hayride - Los Angeles

Characteristic	Description
Name	Los Angeles Haunted Hayride
Type	Haunted house in Los Angeles, California
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	3.2 / 1,142
Address	4730 Crystal Springs Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027
Phone	(323) 593-6894
Hours	Saturday - Closed Sunday - Closed Monday - 7–10 PM Tuesday - Closed Wednesday - Closed Thursday - Closed Friday - Closed
Profiles

October marks the season of all things spooky, and what better way to celebrate Halloween than by visiting some of California's most haunted places? One attraction that stands out from the rest is the Haunted Hayride in Los Angeles, which promises to be an unforgettable experience for thrill-seekers.

Located in Griffith Park, LA's infamous urban wilderness, the Haunted Hayride features a 25-minute ride through different sets, each one more frightening than the last. The ride takes visitors through a dark forest that is the perfect backdrop for the creepy creatures that lurk around every turn. There are ghostly apparitions, blood-curdling screams, and jump scares that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

The Haunted Hayride at Griffith Park has become a Halloween tradition in Los Angeles over the past few years and has become known as one of the best in the country. The event attracts large crowds every year, so be sure to book your tickets in advance. There are also VIP tickets available that have shorter lines and better seating options.

The attraction does have a few rules that visitors must follow, including no alcohol, smoking, or running inside the hayride area. The management team also advises against bringing children under the age of 12 due to the nature of the event. While the hayride might not be for everyone, it is undoubtedly an experience that thrill-seekers and horror enthusiasts won't want to miss.

In conclusion, the Haunted Hayride at Griffith Park is a must-visit for anyone in California during the Halloween season. The trail offers the perfect combination of eerie ambiance and thrilling jump scares that will keep you on the edge of your seat. So suit up, grab a friend (if you're brave enough), and prepare to scream as you embark on one of the most famous haunted hayrides in the country.

The 17th Door Haunted House - Fullerton

Characteristic	Description
Name	The 17th Door Haunt Experience
Type	Haunted house in Fullerton, California
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.5 / 541
Address	1851 W Orangethorpe Ave, Fullerton, CA 92833
Hours	Saturday - Closed Sunday - Closed Monday - 7 PM–12 AM Tuesday - Closed Wednesday - Closed Thursday - Closed Friday - Closed
Profiles

When it comes to celebrating Halloween in California, there are plenty of spooky events to choose from. However, if you're looking for an intense and terrifying experience, look no further than The 17th Door Haunted House in Fullerton.

The 17th Door Haunted House is not for the faint of heart. This immersive and interactive experience takes guests through 17 different rooms, each with its own elaborate and terrifying theme. From a claustrophobic crawl-through maze to a medical ward from hell, the attraction will have you screaming in fear at every turn.

The creators of The 17th Door Haunted House go above and beyond to make the experience as realistic as possible. You'll feel like you're at the mercy of sadistic doctors, menacing clowns, and even demon-possessed children. The attraction uses special effects, high-tech animatronics, and even live actors to create an unforgettable Halloween experience.

If you're brave enough to make it through all 17 rooms, you'll be rewarded with a sense of accomplishment – and a chance to take a terrifying photo with the attraction's demonic mascot, Paula.

While The 17th Door Haunted House is not recommended for children or those with heart conditions, it's the perfect attraction for horror enthusiasts and adrenaline junkies. So gather your bravest friends and head to Fullerton for an experience you'll never forget.

Terror Vault - San Francisco

If you're looking for a thrilling Halloween experience, look no further than Terror Vault in San Francisco. This immersive haunted house takes you on a terrifying journey through the depths of the historic San Francisco Mint building, where you'll encounter all manner of ghouls and twisted characters.

The experience starts with a creepy elevator ride down to the basement, where you'll be greeted by a cast of characters ready to scare you out of your wits. As you make your way through the various rooms and corridors, you'll encounter everything from bloodthirsty vampires to deranged clowns.

The attention to detail is impressive, with each room meticulously decorated to create an immersive and terrifying atmosphere. The actors are also top-notch, with each one fully committed to delivering a spine-chilling performance.

But be warned, this is not for the faint of heart. The scares are intense, and there's no shortage of jump scares and startle moments. If you're easily frightened, this might not be the best choice for you. But if you're looking for an unforgettable Halloween experience, Terror Vault is the way to go.

The experience takes about 45 minutes to complete, and tickets are available online or at the door. So if you're in California for Halloween, make sure to check out Terror Vault in San Francisco for a night of frights you'll never forget.

Fear Overload Scream Park - Sacramento

Characteristic	Description
Name	Sacramento Scream Park
Type	Haunted house in North Highlands, California
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	3.7 / 1,111
Address	4909 Auburn Blvd Suite 3, Sacramento, CA 95841
Phone	(530) 794-8511
Hours	Saturday - 7–10 PM Sunday - Closed Monday - Closed Tuesday - Closed Wednesday - Closed Thursday - Closed Friday - Closed
Profiles

Halloween is just around the corner and there's no better way to celebrate this spooky season than by visiting the Fear Overload Scream Park in Sacramento, California. This haunted park is not for the faint-hearted, as it promises to provide visitors with the ultimate scare experience.

The Fear Overload Scream Park is notorious for its elaborate and terrifying sets, eerie music, and disturbing characters lurking around every corner. This annual Halloween event is not just your average haunted house - it's a fully immersive scare experience that will leave you trembling with fear.

The park features two different attractions: The Hollows and Night Terrors. The Hollows is set in an abandoned mental institution, where visitors must navigate through dark and twisting hallways while being relentlessly pursued by deranged patients. Night Terrors, on the other hand, takes place in the abandoned town of Hangman's Hollow, where visitors must avoid the ghosts of the town's former residents.

To enhance the scare factor, the Fear Overload Scream Park uses the latest technology and special effects to create a truly immersive experience. From realistic animatronics to high-tech lighting and sound design, every detail is designed to make visitors feel like they are truly in a horror movie.

But the park isn't just about scaring visitors, it's also about providing a fun and memorable experience. Along with the haunted attractions, the Fear Overload Scream Park offers food and drinks, live entertainment, and interactive games.

So, if you're looking for an adrenaline-packed Halloween experience, head over to the Fear Overload Scream Park in Sacramento, California. Be prepared to face your fears and remember - it's all in good fun!

The Frightmare Compound - Loomis

Halloween is just around the corner, and if you're looking for a spine-chilling experience, California has plenty of options for you to explore. One of the scariest places to visit this Halloween season is The Frightmare Compound in Loomis, California.

Located in a quiet town just outside of Sacramento, The Frightmare Compound is the perfect destination for horror fans who want to take their Halloween scares to the next level. This haunted attraction is known for its intense thrills, and it's not recommended for the faint of heart.

The Frightmare Compound features multiple haunted attractions that are sure to put your courage to the test. Some of the highlights include the Massacre Maze, the Abandoned Asylum, and the Clown Carnage attraction. Each of these attractions is designed to terrify visitors with jump scares, creepy creatures, and terrifying special effects.

One of the things that sets The Frightmare Compound apart from other haunted attractions is the level of detail that goes into each attraction. The sets are meticulously designed to create an immersive environment, complete with eerie sound effects and realistic lighting.

In addition to the haunted attractions, The Frightmare Compound also features a variety of food vendors and merchandise booths. You can grab a bite to eat or pick up some frightening souvenirs to remember your visit. If you're feeling brave, you can also challenge yourself to take on one of the escape rooms on offer.

Overall, The Frightmare Compound is a must-visit destination for horror fans in California. With its intense scares, high-quality production value, and thrilling attractions, it's the perfect way to get into the Halloween spirit. So if you're ready to face your fears and experience the ultimate scare, head to Loomis and check out The Frightmare Compound.

Frequently asked questions