What are the best Halloween events and things to do in San Diego in 2025 (especially around North Park)
Experience a mix of family-friendly fun, haunted attractions, costume parties, and neighborhood celebrations across San Diego – with some hidden gems right in North Park. San Diego offers something for every kind of Halloween lover – whether you’re chasing thrills, trick-or-treating with kids, or looking to party after dark.
Major Halloween Events Across San Diego
SeaWorld’s Howl-O-Scream – On select nights from September 12 to November 1, 2025, SeaWorld transforms after dark into a haunted realm filled with scare zones, costumed actors, and thrilling decorations. This is a separate, ticketed after-hours event. Learn more here:
San Diego Zombie Crawl (Gaslamp Quarter) – A nightlife favorite: October 24, 25, 30, 31 & November 1, 2025. Enjoy themed drinks, live DJs, and a citywide bar crawl that turns downtown into a spooky playground. Learn more here:
North Park Spooktacular Party (North Park Mini Park) – On October 11, 2025, this family-friendly event takes over North Park Mini Park with games, DJs, pumpkin decorating, and a costume contest. Learn more here:
Halloween at the Station (Liberty Station) – On October 26, 2025, Liberty Station hosts a community event with trick-or-treating, costume contests, and themed décor from noon to 4 PM. Learn more here:
Nightmare on Normal Street (Hillcrest) – A beloved Hillcrest block party on October 31, 2025, from 5-11 PM. Expect outdoor DJs, creative costumes, and lively vendor booths along University Avenue. Learn more here:
The Official Halloween Bar Crawl & Rooftop Parties – Join the Official Halloween Bar Crawl on October 31 & November 1, or head to the Haunted Andaz Rooftop Party for upscale chills and city views. Learn more here:
North Park Thursday Market – Haunted Edition – This local favorite sometimes turns spooky for Halloween week, featuring costume contests, candy giveaways, and a pop-up haunted market experience. Learn more here:
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Halloween in San Diego
- Book early for popular events – tickets often sell out fast.
- Pair a daytime family outing with an evening event for the best experience.
- Use public transit or rideshare if attending downtown events to avoid parking headaches.
- Check event websites for any last-minute updates or time changes.
- North Park’s small businesses often host pop-up Halloween nights – keep an eye on local calendars.
- If you’re walking in costume, stick to familiar, well-lit routes for safety.
🏘 Why North Park Matters (And What You Can Do)
North Park adds a neighborhood charm to Halloween that larger venues can’t replicate. From community festivals like the Spooktacular Party to themed nights at local bars and markets, it’s the perfect area for walkable fun. Encourage your neighbors and clients to participate – decorating porches and attending events strengthens that signature North Park vibe.
✅ Final Takeaway
San Diego’s Halloween season in 2025 offers something for everyone – from massive theme park haunts to cozy local gatherings in North Park. No matter how you like to celebrate, this city delivers spooky excitement and community spirit in equal measure.
If you want to live in a neighborhood where every season brings the community together? Contact the McT Real Estate Group. We’d love to help you find a place in San Diego that fits your lifestyle.
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