Halloween in Los Angeles is a thrilling affair that captures the imagination of residents and visitors alike. As October approaches, the City of Angels transforms into a vibrant landscape of spooky decorations, elaborate costumes, and exciting events.
In 2024, Los Angeles promises to host a plethora of Halloween activities that cater to all tastes—from family-friendly festivals to thrilling haunted attractions.
This article will guide you through the essential Halloween happenings, activities, and must-visit spots in Los Angeles, ensuring you have a memorable celebration.
When Is Halloween in Los Angeles?
Halloween is celebrated on October 31, 2024, in Los Angeles. This day is marked by a variety of festivities that begin early in the month and continue until the end of October.
Residents often start decorating their homes and planning events weeks in advance, setting the stage for a fun and festive atmosphere.
Halloween Events Los Angeles, 2024
Los Angeles is known for its vibrant and diverse Halloween celebrations, making it a thrilling destination during the spooky season.
In 2024, the city will come alive with an array of Halloween events that cater to all ages and interests. From haunted attractions and spooky festivals to family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
1. LA Haunted Hayride
- Date: October 5-31
- Time: 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Venue: Griffith Park
The LA Haunted Hayride combines the thrill of a hayride with live actors and spooky scenes. Guests journey through Griffith Park, experiencing various horror-themed vignettes along the way.
This attraction offers a fun and frightful evening for all ages, immersing visitors in the Halloween spirit.
2. Halloween Horror Nights
- Date: September 14 – October 31
- Time: 7:00 PM – 2:00 AM
- Venue: Universal Studios Hollywood
Halloween Horror Nights is a legendary event that features elaborate mazes inspired by popular horror films and TV shows. The experience includes thrilling rides, live performances, and the chance to meet iconic horror characters. It’s a must-visit for fans of fright and film.
3. West Hollywood Halloween Carnival
- Date: October 31
- Time: 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Venue: Santa Monica Blvd
This annual street party is one of the largest Halloween celebrations in the country. The carnival features live music, costume contests, and a vibrant atmosphere that attracts thousands of attendees. It’s an exciting way to celebrate Halloween in a fun, communal setting.
4. Boo at the L.A. Zoo
- Date: October 26-27
- Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Venue: Los Angeles Zoo
Boo at the L.A. Zoo is a family-friendly event that includes themed activities, animal encounters, and costume contests.
This event allows children to enjoy Halloween in a fun and educational environment while experiencing the wonders of the zoo. It’s a great outing for families looking to celebrate the holiday.
5. Nightmare on Main Street
- Date: October 26-27
- Time: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Venue: Downtown Los Angeles
Nightmare on Main Street is a vibrant Halloween celebration that includes a street fair, food vendors, and live entertainment. Families can enjoy various activities while soaking .
In the festive atmosphere. It’s a great way to connect with the community during the spooky season.
6. The Los Angeles Halloween Parade
- Date: October 31
- Time: 6:00 PM
- Venue: Hollywood Boulevard
This lively parade showcases extravagant floats, costumed performers, and community participation. It’s a visual spectacle that embodies the fun and creativity of Halloween in Los Angeles. Spectators can expect an evening filled with entertainment and excitement.
7. Knott’s Scary Farm
- Date: September 20 – October 31
- Time: 7:00 PM – 1:00 AM
- Venue: Knott’s Berry Farm
Knott’s Scary Farm transforms the amusement park into a haunted experience with terrifying mazes, scare zones, and live shows.
This attraction is ideal for thrill-seekers looking to experience an adrenaline rush during the Halloween season. It’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
8. Haunted Hollywood Tour
- Date: October 1-31
- Time: Various Times
- Venue: Hollywood Boulevard
The Haunted Hollywood Tour offers a fascinating exploration of Hollywood’s haunted history. Participants visit iconic locations while hearing spooky stories about.
The stars and ghosts that haunt the area. This unique tour provides an engaging way to learn about the darker side of Tinseltown.
9. Day of the Dead Festival
- Date: November 1-2
- Time: All Day
- Venue: Hollywood Forever Cemetery
This festival honors deceased loved ones through altars, music, and traditional dance. While not strictly Halloween, the celebration is an important cultural event during the fall season. It’s a beautiful way to engage with the community and celebrate life and death.
10. Ghost Tours of Los Angeles
- Date: October 1-31
- Time: Various Times
- Venue: Various Locations
Ghost tours provide an entertaining and educational experience, exploring haunted sites and local legends. Guides share chilling tales as participants walk through historical neighborhoods. It’s a perfect way to combine history with Halloween fun.
11. Los Angeles Pumpkin Patch
- Date: October 1-31
- Time: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Venue: Various Locations
Visiting pumpkin patches is a classic fall tradition. Many local farms offer pumpkin picking, hayrides, and other festive activities for families. This fun outdoor activity is perfect for creating lasting memories with loved ones.
12. Escape Halloween at 60out
- Date: October 1-31
- Time: Various Times
- Venue: 60out Escape Rooms
Experience themed escape rooms designed for the Halloween season. Solve puzzles and unravel mysteries to escape before time runs out. This thrilling activity is great for groups of friends looking for a fun challenge.
13. Family Halloween Fest at California Science Center
- Date: October 26-27
- Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Venue: California Science Center
This family-friendly event features hands-on activities, science demonstrations, and spooky science-themed fun. It provides an educational twist on Halloween, encouraging kids to learn while they celebrate. Families can enjoy a day filled with exploration and excitement.
14. Griffith Park Free Shakespeare Festival – Halloween Edition
- Date: October 30
- Time: 7:00 PM
- Venue: Griffith Park
The festival features a special Halloween-themed performance of a Shakespeare play. This cultural event invites guests to enjoy live theater in a beautiful outdoor setting.
It’s a unique way to celebrate Halloween while appreciating the arts.
15. Halloween Spooktacular at the Aquarium of the Pacific
- Date: October 26-27
- Time: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Venue: Aquarium of the Pacific
This event includes trick-or-treating and themed activities focused on marine life. Families can explore the aquarium while enjoying Halloween festivities. It’s an educational and fun way to celebrate the holiday.
16. Pumpkin Festival at The Grove
- Date: October 15-31
- Time: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Venue: The Grove
The Grove hosts a pumpkin festival with decorations, pumpkin picking, and themed shopping events. It’s a family-friendly environment perfect for enjoying the fall season. Visit to enjoy live entertainment and delicious seasonal treats.
17. Trick-or-Treating at The Citadel Outlets
- Date: October 31
- Time: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- Venue: The Citadel Outlets
Enjoy a safe and fun trick-or-treating experience at The Citadel Outlets. Shops participate by handing out treats to children in costume. It’s a great way for families to celebrate Halloween in a festive atmosphere.
18. Halloween Film Festival
- Date: October 15-31
- Time: Various Times
- Venue: Various Locations
Experience classic horror films at local theaters during the Halloween season. Enjoy screenings of your favorite spooky movies, often accompanied by special events or discussions. It’s a great way to enjoy the cinematic side of Halloween.
19. Los Angeles County Fair – Halloween Nights
- Date: September 6-29
- Time: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Venue: Fairplex, Pomona
The fair features Halloween-themed activities, rides, and entertainment. Enjoy a festive atmosphere with fun for the whole family. It’s a perfect opportunity to celebrate Halloween while enjoying fair food and attractions.
20. Los Angeles Arboretum’s Halloween Haunt
- Date: October 26-27
- Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Venue: Los Angeles Arboretum
This family-friendly event includes a haunted garden, activities, and festive treats. Explore the arboretum after dark while enjoying a variety of Halloween-themed experiences. It’s a unique way to connect with nature during the spooky season.
21. Special Halloween Comedy Shows
- Date: Various dates in October
- Time: Evening
- Venue: Various Comedy Clubs
Enjoy Halloween-themed comedy shows featuring local comedians. Many clubs host special events or showcases during the Halloween season. Laughter is a perfect way to celebrate and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Overview Of Halloween Events In Los Angeles
Upcoming Halloween Events Table
Event Name | Date | Time | Venue |
---|---|---|---|
LA Haunted Hayride | October 5-31 | 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM | Griffith Park |
Halloween Horror Nights | September 14 – October 31 | 7:00 PM – 2:00 AM | Universal Studios Hollywood |
West Hollywood Halloween Carnival | October 31 | 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM | Santa Monica Blvd |
Boo at the L.A. Zoo | October 26-27 | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM | Los Angeles Zoo |
Nightmare on Main Street | October 26-27 | 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM | Downtown Los Angeles |
The Los Angeles Halloween Parade | October 31 | 6:00 PM | Hollywood Boulevard |
Knott’s Scary Farm | September 20 – October 31 | 7:00 PM – 1:00 AM | Knott’s Berry Farm |
Haunted Hollywood Tour | October 1-31 | Various Times | Hollywood Blvd |
Escape Halloween at 60out | October 1-31 | Various Times | 60out Escape Room |
Haunted Hayride at Griffith Park | October 5-31 | 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM | Griffith Park |
Ghost Tours of Los Angeles | October 1-31 | Various Times | Various Locations |
Day of the Dead Festival | November 1-2 | All Day | Hollywood Forever Cemetery |
ScareLA | August 2024 | 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM | Los Angeles Convention Center |
L.A. County Fair – Halloween Nights | September 6-29 | 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM | Fairplex, Pomona |
Family Halloween Fest at California Science Center | October 26-27 | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM | California Science Center |
Horror Film Festival | October 15-31 | Various Times | Various Locations |
Griffith Park Free Shakespeare Festival – Halloween Edition | October 30 | 7:00 PM | Griffith Park |
Trick-or-Treat at the Farmers Market | October 31 | 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM | The Grove |
Los Angeles Pumpkin Patch | October 1-31 | 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM | Various Locations |
Creepy Crawl Halloween Pub Crawl | October 26 | 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM | Various Bars |
Halloween Spooktacular at the Aquarium of the Pacific | October 26-27 | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Aquarium of the Pacific |
Haunted Corn Maze | October 1-31 | 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM | Various Locations |
Halloween Activities in Los Angeles
Los Angeles is teeming with Halloween activities for everyone. Whether you prefer family-friendly events or spooky adventures, there’s no shortage of things to do this season. Here are some popular activities:
1. Haunted Attractions
Los Angeles boasts a wide variety of haunted attractions, from haunted houses to immersive experiences. These attractions offer thrilling adventures filled with scares and surprises, perfect for those seeking a heart-pounding experience.
2. Pumpkin Picking
Visiting pumpkin patches is a classic Halloween tradition. Many local farms offer pumpkin picking, hayrides, and corn mazes, making it a delightful outing for families. It’s a great way to enjoy the fall season and choose the perfect pumpkin for carving.
3. Halloween Festivals
Participate in one of the many Halloween festivals held across the city. These festivals often include live entertainment, food vendors, and fun activities for all ages. They provide a wonderful way to celebrate the holiday spirit with the community.
Best Halloween Spots in Los Angeles
Los Angeles is brimming with exciting Halloween spots. Here are some of the best places to visit:
1. Alcatraz Island
- What to Do: Take a night tour to explore the infamous prison while listening to haunting stories.
- Why Visit: This historic location provides a unique blend of history and horror, perfect for thrill-seekers.
- Special Tip: Book your tickets in advance, as night tours often sell out quickly.
2. Haunted Houses
- What to Do: Visit popular haunted houses like Fear Overload and The Winchester Mystery House.
- Why Visit: These attractions offer immersive experiences that are sure to thrill and terrify.
- Special Tip: Check for special events or themed nights to enhance your haunted experience.
3. Half Moon Bay Pumpkin Festival
- What to Do: Enjoy pumpkin weigh-offs, contests, and local crafts.
- Why Visit: This festival celebrates all things pumpkin, making it perfect for families.
- Special Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy all the festival has to offer.
Conclusion
Halloween in Los Angeles in 2024 promises to be an exciting and vibrant celebration filled with diverse events and activities for everyone.
From spine-tingling haunted attractions and festive street carnivals to family-friendly pumpkin patches and cultural celebrations, the City of Angels offers a plethora of options for revelers of all ages.
FAQs
Major events include Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios, the LA Haunted Hayride, and the West Hollywood Halloween Carnival. Each offers unique experiences, from thrilling haunted attractions to lively street parties.
Yes, there are plenty of family-friendly activities, such as Boo at the L.A. Zoo, pumpkin patches, and various community festivals that include safe trick-or-treating and entertainment for kids.
You can check local event listings on websites like Eventbrite, Visit Los Angeles, and community bulletin boards for up-to-date information on Halloween celebrations.
It is advisable to buy tickets in advance for popular events, especially haunted attractions, as they can sell out quickly. Many events may also offer discounts for early purchases.
A: Popular costume trends often include classic horror figures, trendy pop culture references, and unique DIY costumes. Local shops and online retailers typically have a wide selection to choose from.
Yes, many restaurants and bars offer Halloween-themed menus and specialty cocktails during the season, making it easy to enjoy festive flavors while celebrating.
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