As thunderstorms and temperatures in the low 70’s does not scream traditional fall weather, but in Southern Orange County, we'll take it. It’s time to break out the sweaters and boots for all the quintessential fall traditions. Halloween is just around the corner and there are plenty of family-friendly activities to partake in this season! From trunk-or-treats to pumpkin patches and haunted houses, here are 6 ways to get in the spooky spirit around our community.
Halloween Spooktakular at Dana Point Community Center
If you’re local, you know that Dana Point pulls out all the tricks (and treats) for the holidays! Halloween is no exception. Dress up and make your way over to the Halloween Spooktakular at the Dana Point Community Center on October 22nd for haunted mazes, games and an outdoor Halloween movie! Not to mention all the sweet things like cookie decorating, hot chocolate, and candy of course. Dana Point Police Services will host a parking lot trunk-or-treat so come meet the staff and canines who keep the city safe. It’s a free night of family fun for the whole community.
34052 Del Obispo
Dana Point, California
Pumpkin Palooza at Zoomars Petting Zoo
Photo courtesy of Zoomars.
From the dirt roads of Los Rios Street to the cowboy heritage of San Juan Capistrano, the city’s old town charm is the perfect setting for fall festivities. Zoomars Petting Zoo is a South OC classic that only gets better when October rolls around! Transforming into a Pumpkinpalooza, Zoomars’ hosts pumpkin picking, gems mining and endless opportunities for fall photos along with their classic pony rides and animal exhibits. It’s family fun for everyone! Head down for hay day with $12 children’s admission and $15 for adults.
31791 Los Rios Street
San Juan Capistrano, CA
Pumpkin Spice Donuts and Coffee At JD Flannel Donuts
Photo courtesy of JD Flannel Donuts.
There’s nothing better than a slow autumn morning to start off Halloween weekend. Pick up festive treats from JD Flannel Donuts, a local favorite for a sweet Sunday breakfast! Owners John Miller and Dave Rhode commit to making gourmet and artisanal donuts from scratch. Pumpkin spice donut? Donut mind if we do! Rolled in cinnamon sugar and topped with candied pepitas, the pumpkin spice donut is a must-try before it’s gone. And the perfect fall morning wouldn't be complete without a steaming cup of coffee. JD Flannel’s coffee is smooth and robust and all their syrups are house-made.
31878 Del Obispo St Suite #122
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
Casa Creepy Haunted House at Casa Romantica
Photo courtesy of Casa Romantica.
Nothing gets in the way of a wedding weekend–except Halloweekend! It’s too spooky for romance so San Clemente’s favorite venue, Casa Romantica transforms into Casa Creepy for a spooktacular event. This family-friendly Halloween attraction is complete with a 1920s-themed haunted house. Brace yourselves for the werewolves, vampires and ghosts that are waiting behind every corner of the historic gardens. During the weekend of October 27-29th a limited number of walk-up tickets are available for $15 a person.
415 Avenida Granada
San Clemente, CA 92672
www.casaromantica.org/casacreepy
Pop Up Shops at Mission Plaza
Photo courtesy of The Pop-Up Shops.
Homemade goods, live music and craft cocktails in the courtyard always make for a delightful evening. The Pop-Up Shops is hosting a Halloween Night Market at The Inn at the Mission on October 23rd from 4-8 p.m. This curated marketplace will feature over 30 small businesses from the community selling jewelry, ceramics, gourmet bites and more. Wondering where the Halloween part comes in? Look out for the complimentary pumpkin patch and bring your best outfit for the costume contest.
31692 El Camino Real,
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
www.instagram.com/thepopupshoppes/
Spooky Treat Trolley
Photo courtesy of City of Dana Point.
If you’ve never ridden the Dana Point Trolley, October 29th may be the day to hop aboard. The community's Parks and Recreation staff will be decked out in their Halloween attire as they stop at local parks to pass out candy. Kids are invited to dress in costume and join in on the fun at the following stops: 3:30-4 p.m. at Pines Park, 4:30-5 p.m. at Sunset Park, 5:30-6 p.m. at Dana Woods Park, and 6:30-7 p.m. at Sea Canyon Park.
