Halloween Events in Monterey

Spooktacular Monterey: Your Complete Guide to Halloween Festivities

Get ready for a spooktacular Halloween in Monterey and the surrounding areas! This season, exciting events await, from the fun-filled Halloween Carnival & Resource Fair for special needs families to spine-tingling experiences at "Halloween at Point Sur Lightstation." Whether you're eager to enjoy pumpkin-rolling contests or explore haunted houses, there’s something for everyone this Halloween. Dive into our guide to discover the top festivities you won't want to miss!

Saturday, October 19

Join Special Kids Connect at Monterey County Fairgrounds for a fun Halloween event -- just for special needs families. The Halloween Carnival & Resource Fair offers carnival games, face painting, crafts, and more will make this a fun jam-packed two hours. Kiddos will get a plastic Pumpkin Tote, upon entry, to fill with prizes and giveaways offered throughout the event.  Costumes are encouraged but are not mandatory.

Experience "Halloween at Point Sur Lightstation," a spine-chilling evening that begins with a sunset walk to the lighthouse and a light buffet at the Barn. Professional actor and storyteller Kevin Hanstick will captivate you with eerie tales of Pt. Sur's ghostly past, and a paranormal investigator will reveal findings from recent ghost hunts. For those daring enough, explore the genuinely haunted, un-restored Triplex. The night concludes with dessert and hot drinks at the Visitor Center.

Saturday, October 26

Carmel's Annual Pumpkin-Rolling Contest, taking place from 11am to 1pm, is a highlight of the town's month-long birthday celebrations, featuring a course on Ocean Avenue lined with hay bales and fencing for spectator safety. Participants can find a truckload of pumpkins at the intersection of Ocean Avenue and Santa Fe Street to join in the action.

Ghosts and goblins of all ages are also invited to Pacific Grove's Trick or Treat. This free family event includes activities, candy, giveaways, music and special offers at participating businesses.

The Pebble Beach Zombie Race and Emergency Preparedness Fair will take place in picturesque Pebble Beach on the Fire Defense Roads, from 9am-12pm. There are two running courses planned, the challenging 5K Zombie Crawl (think 3.1 miles of steep hills) and the 2K Survivor Stroll (a flat mile that is perfect for strollers and youngsters).

This is a second opportunity to experience "Halloween at Point Sur Lightstation," a spine-chilling evening that begins with a sunset walk to the lighthouse and a light buffet at the Barn. Professional actor and storyteller Kevin Hanstick will captivate you with eerie tales of Pt. Sur's ghostly past, and a paranormal investigator will reveal findings from recent ghost hunts. For those daring enough, explore the genuinely haunted, un-restored Triplex. The night concludes with dessert and hot drinks at the Visitor Center.

Sunday, October 27

If you're into costume contests, don't miss Howl-o-Ween at Carmel’s Forest Theater! It is a spectacular outdoor event with live music, snacks, and incredible prizes for extraordinary pet/owner costumes. Free entry!

Another exciting event is the Pumpkin Plunge and Dia de los Muertos Family Evening at the Sports Center from 4pm to 6pm. This festive gathering features the popular Pumpkin Plunge, where families can dive into a pool filled with pumpkins for a truly unique seasonal experience. Following the plunge, immerse yourself in music, dance, and presentations celebrating Dia de los Muertos from 6pm to 8:30pm, an important cultural celebration for many families on the Peninsula.

Thursday, October 31

Trick or Treat by the Bay at Old Fisherman's Wharf! Come in costume and enjoy this free, family-friendly event with trick or treating available at participating merchants on the Wharf from 4-7pm. *Editor's Choice

Come celebrate Halloween with your family at The Del Monte Shopping Center Pumpkin Pandemonium! Candy and glow sticks will be handed out, free pumpkins will be available in the Pumpkin Patch along with other kid-friendly activities.

The City of Seaside will be holding its annual Halloween Bonanza at the Oldemeyer Center from 4-7pm. The event will also feature games, a haunted house, activities, interactive crafts, treat bags and refreshments. The first 300 people get a spooky filled Halloween bag!

Last, but not least come and join us at Carmel-by-the-Sea Birthday at 4pm. The City of Carmel-by-the-Sea was incorporated on Halloween in 1916, so it celebrates its birthday and the country’s favorite costume-and-candy holiday with a Halloween Parade through downtown. This is not to be missed event!

Your Halloween Adventure Awaits

Monterey, along with its charming neighbors Carmel and Pacific Grove, offers a variety of festive activities for all ages. From the thrilling Pumpkin-Rolling Contest to the enchanting Trick or Treat by the Bay, there are plenty of ways to celebrate. So don your favorite costume and prepare for a Halloween filled with fun and unforgettable memories. Join in the excitement and make this Halloween a celebration to remember!

Have a wonderful and safe Halloween! If you’re looking for other events, check our upcoming events calendar. For accommodations, browse our top picks for hotels and inns.

Photo Gallery