October in San Diego is a magical mix of crisp ocean air, golden sunsets, and a calendar packed with unforgettable events. Whether you’re craving spooky thrills, festive brews, or family-friendly outings, this coastal city delivers. Here’s your guide to the best things to do in San Diego this October:
Raise a Stein: Oktoberfest Celebrations
San Diego’s Oktoberfest scene is buzzing with bratwurst, beer gardens, and Bavarian vibes:
- OB Oktoberfest (Oct. 10–11): Ocean Beach goes all out with beachfront beer gardens, live music, and quirky contests like stein-holding and brat-eating challenges.
- Rancho BEERnardo Festival (Oct. 11th): Rancho Bernardo’s Favorite Beer Festival is Back!
Haunted San Diego: Spooky Spots to Explore
Get your ghost-hunting gear ready—San Diego’s haunted history is alive and well:
- Whaley House Museum: Known as “The Most Haunted House in America,” this Old Town landmark offers ghost tours and after-hours investigations.
- Hotel del Coronado: Follow the mysterious tale of Kate Morgan on a nightly Haunted Happenings Tour.
- Gaslamp Museum at the Davis-Horton House: Encounter flickering lights and Victorian apparitions in San Diego’s oldest building.
- Old Point Loma Lighthouse: Visitors report eerie sensations and unexplained lights in this historic beacon.
- Marshal Scotty’s Haunted Amusement Park: Brave the Scare Trail through abandoned rides and creepy clowns in El Cajon.
Sip & Stroll: La Jolla Art & Wine Festival (Oct. 11–12)
This free two-day festival transforms Girard Avenue into a vibrant celebration of art, wine, and community. Browse works from over 170 artists, enjoy tastings from 35+ wineries and breweries, and take part in live entertainment, pet adoptions, and a silent auction—all while supporting La Jolla’s public schools.
Lights, Camera, Culture: San Diego International Film Festival (Oct. 15–19)
Set against the stunning coastline, this world-class festival showcases global narratives, indie gems, and red carpet premieres. It’s more than just movies—it’s a cultural experience with Q&As, networking events, and unforgettable screenings.
Wild Autumn: Safari Park’s Autumn Festival (Weekends in October)
Celebrate the season with hay mazes, scarecrow dance parties, and lantern ceremonies at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. Enjoy fall-themed food like teriyaki pork chop sandwiches and caramel apple churro fries, plus festive drinks like prickly pear margaritas and appletini floats.
Family-Friendly Frights
- SeaWorld Halloween Spooktacular: Trick-or-treating, dance parties, and whimsical characters make this a hit for little ones.
- San Diego Zoo HalGLOWeen: Glow-in-the-dark fun, live music, and interactive zones light up the zoo for kids of all ages.
- LEGOLAND Brick-or-Treat: Costumed characters, themed rides, and candy stations bring Halloween magic to life.
For the Brave: Haunted Harvest Hayride at Fort Cross
Venture to Julian for a spine-tingling hayride through haunted woods, complete with live actors, eerie effects, and fall festivities like pumpkin painting and cider pressing.
After Dark: SeaWorld’s Howl-O-Scream
For thrill-seekers, SeaWorld transforms into a haunted playground with terrifying scare zones, haunted houses, and pulse-pounding shows.
The Cup Is Calling: Breeders’ Cup at Del Mar
- Breeders’ Cup at Del Mar (Oct. 31–Nov. 1) Catch world-class horse racing by the sea as the Breeders’ Cup returns to Del Mar.