October in San Diego is a time of celebration, where sunny days meet the spooky season and fall festivals pop up across the city. From Halloween thrills to art festivals and craft beer events, San Diego offers a fantastic array of activities for everyone. Here’s your guide to the best events happening in America’s Finest City this October.
1. San Diego International Film Festival (October 16-20, 2024)
Movie buffs, rejoice! The San Diego International Film Festival returns for five days of film screenings, industry panels, and star-studded red carpet events. Held at multiple venues across downtown San Diego, this festival showcases a wide range of independent films, documentaries, and shorts from around the globe. It’s a must-attend event for film lovers looking for an insider’s glimpse into the industry.
2. La Jolla Art & Wine Festival (October 5-6, 2024)
Enjoy the best of art and wine at the annual La Jolla Art & Wine Festival, where you'll find over 150 artists displaying their work, along with a curated selection of wine and beer tastings. This free event also features live entertainment, food vendors, and a family art center, making it perfect for a laid-back weekend in the beautiful seaside community of La Jolla.
3. Kids Free San Diego (All October)
Looking for fun ways to entertain the little ones? Throughout October, Kids Free San Diego offers free admission for kids at over 100 attractions, including the San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld, Legoland, and many more! It’s a great opportunity for families to explore some of San Diego’s top destinations without breaking the bank. Don’t forget to check out special deals on dining and shopping as well!
4. Haunted Hotel (September 29 - October 31, 2024)
Get ready for a hair-raising experience at The Haunted Hotel, one of San Diego’s longest-running and most terrifying haunted attractions. Located in Mission Valley, this haunted house features themed rooms, bone-chilling special effects, and actors who will make you scream at every turn. Not for the faint of heart, this attraction is a top pick for horror fans.
5. Oktoberfest in Ocean Beach (October 12-13, 2024)
Head to Ocean Beach for a weekend filled with live music, local brews, and Bavarian traditions at OB Oktoberfest. Enjoy beer tastings, bratwurst, and sauerkraut while participating in quirky contests like the famous sausage toss and stein-holding competition. The beachside location offers a laid-back vibe, making it a perfect spot to enjoy the autumn sunshine and German festivities.
6. Pumpkin Patch at Bates Nut Farm (All October)
For some family-friendly fall fun, take a trip to the Bates Nut Farm Pumpkin Patch in Valley Center. Known for its vast selection of pumpkins, you can pick your favorite from the field and enjoy tractor hayrides, a petting zoo, corn mazes, and live entertainment. This event runs throughout the entire month of October, making it a perfect day trip for families looking to embrace the fall spirit.
7. Boomont Park Fall Festival & Haunt (October 1-31, 2024)
For a more light-hearted Halloween experience, head over to Boomont Park in Mission Beach for their annual Fall Festival & Haunt. The amusement park is transformed into a spooky yet family-friendly wonderland, with trick-or-treating, costume contests, and themed rides. The park’s famous Giant Dipper roller coaster even gets a haunted makeover for the month, making it a must-visit for kids and adults alike.
8. San Diego Beer Week (October 25 - November 3, 2024)
San Diego is known for its craft beer scene, and San Diego Beer Week is the ultimate celebration of local breweries. This 10-day event features brewery tours, beer pairings, and tastings at some of the city’s top craft beer locations. Whether you're a beer connoisseur or just love a good pint, this event is a great way to explore San Diego’s booming craft beer culture.
9. Dia de los Muertos at Old Town (October 28 - November 2, 2024)
Celebrate Dia de los Muertos at Old Town San Diego, where the historic district transforms with colorful altars (ofrendas), traditional music, dance performances, and festive decorations. This celebration honors the Mexican tradition of remembering loved ones who have passed, and it's a beautiful cultural experience for the whole family. Don’t miss the procession that takes place on November 1st through Old Town’s candlelit streets.
10. Fleet Week San Diego (October 1-8, 2024)
Fleet Week San Diego is a time-honored tradition, celebrating the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces with a week of military-themed events. Highlights include ship tours, a military family day, and the highly anticipated Coronado Speed Festival, where historic race cars take to the track. It’s a patriotic and family-friendly event that offers a glimpse into San Diego’s rich naval heritage.
October in San Diego is packed with activities for all ages and interests, from spooky Halloween attractions to cultural festivals and beer celebrations. Whether you’re looking for a thrilling haunted house or a family-friendly pumpkin patch, there’s no shortage of things to do.
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