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Don't Forget Your Spooky
In the spirit of the spooky season, I wanted to share some of my favorite unique Halloween finds in San Diego. I’ve compiled a selection of the most unusual bright and dark mentions, each of which reflects the mood of this eerie occasion. From frightening attractions that will send thrills down your spine to family-friendly destinations that ooze autumnal charm, San Diego has something for everyone.
I’m a sucker for these creative, eerie vibes, and what I appreciate most about them is that people of all ages and backgrounds may participate. Whether you’re an adrenaline addict looking for spectacular thrills or a parent looking to make lasting memories with your children, Halloween in San Diego won’t disappoint. So, don’t pass up the opportunity to partake in one or all of these haunting spectacles in Southern California. They will surely make a lasting impression on your soul and feed your Halloween spirit.
1. A Night at The Overlook Hotel
The Rooftop Bar in Oceanside hosts an annual Halloween party weekend event that is sure to be a frightening and amazing experience. This popular location will be dressed up for this special weekend, and the bar will be turned into a mirror version of The Overlook Hotel from The Shining. Guests can expect to be whisked away to a world of creepy music and flashing lights. There will, of course, be plenty of eerie cocktails to keep the celebration going and a live DJ spinning tunes all night. RSVPs are strongly advised for those who wish to receive VIP treatment. Whether you’re a fan of The Shining or just seeking a fun and different Halloween experience, The Rooftop Bar’s Halloween party weekend is for you. So grab your friends, don your scariest costumes, and get ready for a night of thrills and chills at The Rooftop Bar.
Date: Saturday, October 28, 2023
Time: 6 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Tickets: Free public admission
Location: Mission Pacific Hotel, The Rooftop Bar, Oceanside
Email: rooftop_bar@jdvhotels.com
Website: https://missionpacifichotel.com/restaurants-bars/the-rooftop-bar/
2. Barbie’s Screamhouse • Hard Rock Halloween by Eventvibe and RMD
On the weekend before Halloween, the legendary Hard Rock Hotel will transform a tri-level party zone into a Barbie Screamzone, a weird and mind-blowing event that combines the iconic doll brand with the dark and twisted universe of Stranger Things. Guests will be taken to a twisted version of Barbieland, where they will be able to dance the night away in a Hellfire Club-themed nightclub while watching top headliners and DJs perform. The Hard Rock Hotel provides premium experiences such as accommodation packages, VIP lounges, and a Fast Pass system that allows customers to skip lines. Barbie Screamzone is only available to people aged 21 and over, and space is limited. Fans are encouraged to buy their tickets early to prevent missing out on this once-in-a-lifetime event.
Date: Saturday, October 28, 2023
Time: 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Tickets: $49 to $149 (Sold on Eventbrite)
Location: Hard Rock Hotel San Diego
Email: bars@hardrockhotelsd.com (VIP Reservations)
Website: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/barbies-screamhouse-hard-rock-halloween-by-eventvibe-rmd-tickets-703558030007?aff=ebdsoporgprofile
3. Friday, the 13th, at The Seventh House
One of San Diego’s most mystical dining experiences, The Seventh House, is hosting a special event on Friday, October 13, to commemorate Halloween and its first anniversary. This one-of-a-kind event will include a Baja-Italian fusion menu that will transport your taste-buds to another dimension, fire dancers to heat up the night, and the opportunity to win tickets to see Stevie Nicks live. You can even have your tarot cards read to test the luck of the dice. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly experience or a romantic evening for two, The Seventh House’s Halloween event has something for everyone. It’ll be a night to remember with excellent food, stimulating entertainment, and a chance to win big. Visit their Instagram to make your reservation.
Date: Friday, October 13, 2023
Time: Dinner service starts at 5 p.m.
Location: The Seventh House, North Park
Instagram: @theseventhhousesd
Website: https://www.seventhhousesandiego.com/North Park
4. Witch-Craft Tea Party
Embrace your inner witch at this spooky afternoon high tea in October! Dress up in your most dazzling costume and prepare for a fantastic afternoon of enchanting treats. Begin with a designed herbal tea ceremony that includes teas that will transport you to the spirit realm. Then, treat yourself to a wonderful variety of homemade nibbles and organic goodies with themed twists. Let your imagination shine in a pumpkin decorating workshop, where you’ll learn how to turn pumpkins into pieces of art. As an added incentive, all competitors will be entered to win the prestigious title of “Best Dressed Guest.” Explore their photo booth to capture your unforgettable moments, and if you’re feeling brave, try a tarot reading to gain insight into your destiny. Gather your coven for an unforgettable afternoon, and let your inner witch run wild. Limited ticketing applies.
Date: Saturday, October 14, 2023
Time: 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Tickets: $75
Location: Private Residence, Sunset Cliffs Ocean Beach
Email: thehighdose@gmail.com
Website: https://thehighdose.com/events-2/ola/services/witch-craft-tea-party
5. Estancia’s Wicked Black & White Ball
Explore the dark and fascinating world of Estancia’s Black and White Ball, a supernatural-themed pre-Halloween weekend of darkness. Consider a world where black and white are the only colors and the supernatural is standard. This is the world of Estancia’s Black and White Ball, a one-of-a-kind and immersive Halloween event that will delight your senses. But Estancia’s Ball is more than just a show. The culinary delights on offer are just as enticing. Expect to eat a variety of monochrome beverages and gastronomic oddities inspired by the Halloween theme. But be aware that this event is only open to individuals aged 21 and up.
Date: Saturday, October 28, 2023
Time: 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Tickets: $115 (Sold on Eventbrite)
Location: Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa
Address: 9700 North Torrey Pines Road, San Diego, CA 92037
Website: https://www.estancialajolla.com/local-experiences/#!/e/estancia-s-wicked-black-white-ball-36c74fdf/
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Great job!
You’re almost done with this Halloween listicle. Just a few more items to go, and then you’ll be in on all the scoop.
But before you get to the good stuff, let me just say that I’m impressed with how far you’ve come. You’ve read through all of these amazing Halloween escapades, and you’re still going strong. That takes dedication!
So, keep up the good work, and I promise that the last few items on this list are going to be worth the wait.
6. Witches of Westgate Tea
A brew of magic and mayhem awaits. This witchery kicks off the magical season with a concoction of polished potions, brewed teas, delicious pastries, and savory seductions waiting for your taste buds and palate. The Westgate Hotel’s Le Fontainebleau room is being transformed into a haunting refuge, complete with creepy decor, captivating fragrances, and spine-tingling surprises. The witching tea parties at the Westgate Hotel are bound to fascinate you, whether you’re dressed to kill or simply looking for a bewitching good time. Adults over 21 will be given champagne, while youngsters will be given a traveling present to keep the magic alive long after the party has ended. Step into the eerie abyss for a tea party unlike any other. They’ll be throwing many witching tea parties in October, so get your wicked ticket now.
Dates: October 15, 20, 21, 22, 2023
Time: 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Tickets: Adult $76 and Children $56 (Under 1 free)
Location: The Westgate Hotel, Le Fontainebleau Room
Email: info@westgatehotel.com
Website: https://www.westgatehotel.com/activities/hotel-events/witches-tea/
7. AnimeLand
Immerse yourself in a brand-new experience during the month of October. A pop-culture anime-themed utopia awaits families near North County, San Diego, for a Halloween event that’s both fun and spooky-cute. Your favorite anime worlds inspire this interactive event, which will immerse you in an imaginative experience. Anime merchandise, arts and crafts, noteworthy artists, music, and much more will be sold by themed vendors, bringing your favorite characters to life. Let the games begin! Discover a world of entertainment, such as live music and costume contests. Satisfy your appetite with delectable meals from a variety of local vendors. And be sure to mark your calendars for this storybook event.
Date: Saturday, October 14, 2023
Time: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Tickets: $5 to $ 10 (Under 8 Free)
Location: North County Mall, Escondido
Website: https://sandiegoanimecon.com/animeland/
8. Seaport Fudge Halloween Town Costume Party
Adults, children, and groups of all sizes are invited to the spooky-sweet Game of Cones Halloween Town Costume Party! This entertaining afternoon will feature musical jams, delicatessen-themed goodies placed around a dessert bar, and carnival gaming that is sure to bring you in the Halloween spirit. Dress to impress in your best costume and enter the category-based costume contest to win prizes! What is a Halloween party without a costume parade? So freak out and show them what you’ve got! In addition to the costume contest, there will be raffles with interesting prizes and cuisines from your favorite neighborhood eateries. So, if you’re looking for a little adventure, check out this Halloween spectacle. Don’t miss out on this frightfully fun event! Click the link below to reserve your FREE ticket today.
Date: Sunday, October 29, 2023
Time: 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Tickets: FREE
Location: Seaport Village, San Diego
Email: conctact@seaportfudge.com
Website: https://www.seaportfudge.com/halloween-party
9. Cake and Sip San Diego Halloween Experience
It’s time to embrace your creative side and discover your inner artist at this Halloween event, where you’ll decorate your very own frightening cake with expert guidance. Of course, no Halloween celebration would be complete without a little libation. So, while you meet with other creative souls, enjoy an open bar (non-alcoholic options are available) and nibble on some delicious hors d’oeuvres. With a range of frightening cake-decorating commodities at your disposal, you can create a genuinely one-of-a-kind masterpiece. This event is ideal for letting loose and having fun while developing your creativity. So come one, come all, and join them for an evening of fun! If you bring an unwrapped toy for a child aged 6–12, you can take 50% off at checkout.
Date: Saturday, October 14, 2023
Time: 12 to 2 p.m.
Tickets: $85 (Sold on Eventbrite) Toy Drive Code: TOYDRIVE23
Location: Hera Hub Mission Valley, 8885 Rio San Diego Drive Suite 100 San Diego, CA 92108
Website: https://www.cakeandsipsandiego.com/
10. Black Pearl Halloween Yacht Party
This 21+ dark pirate party on the California Spirit Yacht is the ideal opportunity to discover the San Diego harbor in a whole new light. As you dance to the top 40 hip-hop sounds, you’ll be treated to spectacular vistas of the metropolitan skyline. There’s something for everyone at this party, with three decks to explore, complimentary appetizers, and a free-flowing open bar all cruise long. Of course, no pirate party would be complete without a costume. So put on your pirate hat and prepare to set sail for a night of fun and adventure. Remember, no firearms are permitted on board. So, what are you holding out for? Purchase your ticket immediately to avoid missing out on this memorable adventure. The boat departs promptly at 10 p.m., so arrive early to avoid missing the boat.
Date: Saturday, October 28, 2023
Time: 9:15 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Tickets: Starting at $49.00
Location: California Spirit Yacht, 990 N. Harbor Drive Dock #1, San Diego
Website: https://vipnightlife.com/events/black-pearl-halloween-yacht-party-san-diego/
These events showcase the best of the best creative Halloween events. I know you’ll love exploring the season’s offerings and indulging in an event or two. If you’re looking for more San Diego fall family-friendly favorites of mine, check out "10 SoCal Halloween Family Fun Activities Suitable for All Ages". And please, please, please exercise safe party practices. Our communities have a lot of great resources for local hotel stays, Uber rides, party buses, and more.
Before it’s too late, slide down the rabbit hole of my content research and discover which parties, events, and adventures speak to your inner Halloween spirit. Make this a binge-worthy experience, and hunt down that which darkens your mood and tickles your fancy. And please purchase your tickets ahead of time so you don't miss out on all the spooky fun. May you have a spooktacular Halloween season, which leaves a lasting footprint.
