2025 San Diego Halloween Events: Ultimate Guide to Chills and Thrills
From Chula Vista to Oceanside, here’s your guide to the best 2025 Southern California Halloween events right in San Diego County.
Halloween season in San Diego is ready to rise from the grave, bringing with it a thrilling mix of haunted houses, outdoor festivals, family-friendly frights, and massive parties. Whether you’re in Chula Vista, Carlsbad, Escondido, or Oceanside, there’s a spooky celebration nearby perfect for families, couples, and die-hard Halloween fans.
This year, expect a lineup of immersive experiences ranging from haunted theme parks to community carnivals, all within easy driving distance of San Diego neighborhoods and coastal towns. Get ready to plan your October with our ultimate guide to 2025 Southern California Halloween events right here in your backyard.
The Haunted Hotel Disturbance – Downtown San Diego’s Scariest Haunt
Why Go: Consistently ranked among the top haunted attractions in California, The Haunted Hotel Disturbance in the Gaslamp Quarter is a must-visit for anyone craving a high-intensity scare. This year’s themes include The Haunted Hotel, The Killbillies, and 3D Freak Fest, each with unique storylines and terrifying effects.
Location: 424 Market Street, San Diego, CA.
Website / Contact: The Haunted Hotel | (619) 696-7227
“It’s like stepping into your worst nightmare—but way more fun,” says a local fan from Chula Vista.
Pro Tip for Locals: Go early in the season to avoid long weekend lines, and grab a VIP ticket if you want to skip the wait.
Balboa Park’s Haunted Trail – Chilling Walk Through the Woods
Why Go: This iconic San Diego Halloween staple offers a mile-long outdoor trail packed with scare zones, haunted characters, and eerie set designs. From ghostly figures lurking in the trees to movie-inspired horror scenes, this event brings spine-tingling excitement to one of the city’s most historic parks.
Location: Balboa Park, San Diego, CA.
Website / Contact: The Haunted Trail | (619) 696-7227
Best For: Those looking for a traditional Halloween experience without leaving San Diego city limits.
LEGOLAND Brick-or-Treat – Family Fun in Carlsbad
Why Go: Families in North County rejoice! Brick-or-Treat at LEGOLAND California is the ultimate kid-friendly Halloween event, complete with trick-or-treating stations, Halloween-themed LEGO builds, live entertainment, and a fireworks finale.
Location: LEGOLAND California Resort, One LEGOLAND Drive, Carlsbad, CA.
Website / Contact: LEGOLAND Brick-or-Treat | (760) 918-5346
“It’s perfect for families with younger kids—festive, fun, and safe,” says Oceanside mom Maria T.
When: Select dates in late September through October.
SeaWorld Howl-O-Scream – Oceanside’s Terror on the Waves
Why Go: SeaWorld transforms after dark into a massive Halloween playground featuring haunted houses, scare zones, thrilling rides, and eerie shows. For 2025, expect upgraded mazes, roaming monsters, and an adults-only vibe once the sun goes down.
Location: 500 Sea World Drive, San Diego, CA.
Website / Contact: SeaWorld Howl-O-Scream
Local Tip: Daytime guests can enjoy SeaWorld’s family-friendly Spooktacular, while night tickets are strictly for ages 13 and up.
Boomont Park Halloween Festival – Mission Beach Family Event
Why Go: Belmont Park goes full Halloween mode with free trick-or-treating, pumpkin painting, and themed rides. Located right on the beach, it’s the perfect low-stress event for families looking to celebrate without big crowds or ticket fees.
Location: 3146 Mission Blvd., San Diego, CA.
Website / Contact: Belmont Park
When: Select weekends in October, usually starting mid-month.
Dia de los Muertos – Old Town San Diego’s Cultural Celebration
Why Go: Experience the rich traditions of Dia de los Muertos with a vibrant two-day festival featuring altars, live performances, face painting, and traditional Mexican food. While not a spooky event, it’s deeply tied to the season and offers a unique way to celebrate life and heritage.
Location: Old Town San Diego State Historic Park.
Website / Contact: Old Town Dia de los Muertos
Perfect For: Families and those looking for a meaningful cultural celebration.
Screamin’ Halloween at The Shoppes at Carlsbad
Why Go: Conveniently located for North County residents, this annual event features a haunted maze, trick-or-treating stations, and live entertainment all under one roof. It’s a great option for Escondido and Oceanside families looking to celebrate without long drives.
Location: 2525 El Camino Real, Carlsbad, CA.
Website / Contact: The Shoppes at Carlsbad
San Diego Zombie Crawl – Gaslamp Quarter Party
Why Go: If you’re craving nightlife this Halloween, join thousands of costumed revelers at the San Diego Zombie Crawl. This 21+ bar crawl spans multiple Gaslamp bars and clubs, offering drink specials, themed DJs, and plenty of undead fun.
Location: Various venues in the Gaslamp Quarter, San Diego, CA.
Website / Contact: San Diego Zombie Crawl
When: October 31 and the weekend before Halloween.
Family-Friendly Picks Near Escondido & Chula Vista
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Pumpkin Station Del Mar – A wholesome pumpkin patch experience perfect for kids, with rides, games, and a petting zoo.
Website: Pumpkin Station -
Civic Center Trunk-or-Treat (Chula Vista) – A free, safe community event for trick-or-treating with decorated cars and local businesses.
Website: Chula Vista Events
Local Planning Tips for San Diego Halloween 2025
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Traffic Watch: North County residents should plan extra travel time for LEGOLAND or SeaWorld on weekends.
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Book Ahead: Haunted Hotel, Balboa Trail, and LEGOLAND tickets sell out fast.
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Stay Local: Chula Vista, Escondido, and Oceanside all host smaller events perfect for avoiding big crowds.
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Mix it Up: Pair a family-friendly day at Belmont Park with a night of scares at Haunted Hotel or Zombie Crawl for the ultimate Halloween weekend.
Make This Halloween San Diego’s Spookiest Yet
From haunted trails in Balboa Park to family festivals in Carlsbad and nightlife parties downtown, San Diego is home to some of the best 2025 Southern California Halloween events. Whether you’re planning a kid-friendly outing, a date night, or a fright-filled weekend with friends, there’s no need to leave the county for an unforgettable Halloween. So grab your costume, rally your crew, and get ready to make this October your spookiest yet!
