27+ Must-Do Halloween Activities in Orange County
Looking for some spooktacular Halloween activities to do in Orange County? You're in the right place! From haunted houses to family-friendly events, Orange County has something for everyone. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, indoor fun, or free activities, this guide has got you covered.
So grab your costume, round up the family, and let's dive into some of the best Halloween fun Southern California has to offer!
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Halloween Activities in Orange County
My best advice here would be to search each of these Halloween activities in Orange County that you like the sound of and “near me” in your browser in order to find the closest ones to you!
Outdoor Ideas
Knott’s Scary Farm
Head to Buena Park for a terrifyingly good time at Knott’s Scary Farm. With sinister shows, haunted houses, and scare zones, it's perfect for those who love a good fright.
Pumpkin Patches
Visit local pumpkin patches in cities like Costa Mesa and Mission Viejo. Enjoy wagon rides, corn mazes, and petting zoos while picking out the perfect pumpkin.
Halloween Parades
Check out Halloween parades in places like Dana Point and Huntington Beach. Watch floats, costume contests, and live music as the whole family enjoys the festive spirit.
Disneyland Resort
Experience Halloween magic at the Disneyland Resort. With themed treats, live entertainment, and your favorite characters in their Halloween costumes, it's fun for the entire family.
Anaheim Fall Festival & Halloween Parade
Head to downtown Anaheim for the Anaheim Fall Festival & Halloween Parade. Enjoy carnival games, face painting, and food trucks in a lively community atmosphere.
Spooky Season at the OC Zoo
Visit the OC Zoo in Santa Ana for their spooky season events. Enjoy trick-or-treating, train rides, and special animal presentations.
Scavenger Hunts and Treat Streets
Participate in scavenger hunts and visit treat streets in places like Newport Beach and Laguna Beach. These events often feature themed treats and fun games for kids.
San Juan Capistrano Halloween Events
Explore Halloween events in San Juan Capistrano, including family-friendly activities, live music, and plenty of photo ops with Halloween decorations.
Queen Mary Dark Harbor
For a maritime scare, visit the Queen Mary in Long Beach. Their Dark Harbor event is filled with haunted mazes and live entertainment that will give you chills.
Haunted Houses
Check out local haunted houses in cities like Santa Ana and Aliso Viejo for some spine-tingling thrills. The 17th Door is particularly known for its intense scares.
Indoor Ideas
Costume Contests
Enter costume contests at local shopping centers and community centers. Show off your best costumes and win fun prizes!
Pumpkin Carving and Decorating
Host a pumpkin carving or decorating party at home. Get creative with spooky designs and enjoy themed treats.
Halloween Movie Nights
Have a Halloween movie night with family-friendly classics or spooky thrillers. Don’t forget the popcorn and themed snacks!
Dance Parties
Join indoor dance parties at community centers or local venues. Enjoy Halloween-themed music and dance the night away in your favorite costume.
Magic Shows and Live Entertainment
Attend magic shows or live entertainment events in places like Buena Park and Costa Mesa. These events often feature special effects and are great fun for kids.
Halloween Crafts and Games
Get crafty with Halloween-themed activities like making treat bags, decorating cookies, or playing Halloween-themed games.
Indoor Carnivals
Visit indoor carnivals featuring bounce houses, obstacle courses, and game booths. These events are perfect for little ghouls and ghosts.
Local Libraries and Museums
Check out special Halloween events at local libraries and museums. These can include story times, craft sessions, and educational exhibits.
Free Ideas
Community Events
Take part in free community events across Orange County. Cities like Garden Grove and Lake Forest host free admission events with trick-or-treating, games, and more.
Costume Parades
Join free costume parades in downtown areas like Anaheim and Laguna Niguel. Show off your Halloween spirit and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Fall Harvest Festivals
Attend fall harvest festivals in various cities. These often include free activities like live music, craft booths, and pumpkin patches.
Scavenger Hunts
Participate in free scavenger hunts at local parks or shopping centers. These hunts are a fun way to explore and enjoy Halloween decorations.
Photo Ops
Look for free photo ops with Halloween decorations at local parks and community centers. Perfect for capturing memories without spending a dime.
Halloween Story Times
Visit local libraries for free Halloween story times. Enjoy spooky tales and fun crafts with the kids.
Trick-or-Treating at Local Businesses
Many shopping centers and local merchants offer free trick-or-treating events. This is a safe and fun way for kids to collect treats.
Free Movie Nights
Some parks and community centers offer free Halloween movie nights. Bring a blanket and enjoy a spooky movie under the stars.
Haunted Trails
Explore free haunted trails at local parks. These are often less intense and great for younger kids.
Neighborhood Decorations Tour
Take a walk or drive around your neighborhood to see Halloween decorations. This is a fun and free way to get into the Halloween spirit.
There are so many exciting Halloween activities to do in Orange County! From outdoor adventures at pumpkin patches and parades to indoor fun with movie nights and crafts, there's something for everyone. Don’t forget to check out the free events to keep the Halloween fun going without breaking the bank. So grab your costume, gather your family and friends, and enjoy all the Halloween spirit Orange County has to offer!
