Things to Do This Weekend: Halloween Fun, from Parades to Parties, Is the Theme

Key Highlights

  • The Anaheim Fall Festival & Parade will celebrate its 100th birthday with a special event.
  • Mara and Little Tokyo are hosting Halloween-themed events including parades, block parties, and festivals.
  • Fall Corgi Beach Day in Huntington Beach features cute competitions for dogs and their owners.

Halloween Fun in Anaheim: Celebrating 100 Years of Festive Joy

The Anaheim Fall Festival & Parade is set to mark its 100th birthday with a grand celebration on October 25. This community favorite event will offer a range of activities, from car shows and costume contests to the iconic Halloween Tree and beloved characters that have delighted generations. The festivities will extend well into the night, making it an ideal choice for those looking to kick off their Halloween celebrations in style.

The History Behind the Celebration

According to Alysia Gray Painter, a local journalist, Anaheim’s Fall Festival and Parade has been a beloved tradition since 1925. The event not only commemorates its long-standing history but also promises to continue being a source of joy for participants and spectators alike. With activities such as screenings and parades, the festival offers something for everyone, ensuring that the spirit of Halloween lives on.

Community Celebrations Across Los Angeles

Mara and Little Tokyo are among several neighborhoods hosting their own unique Halloween events. In Mara, the Marina Spooktacular takes place at Burton Chace Park on October 25 and 26. This event combines fun activities with a festive atmosphere, making it perfect for families looking to enjoy the Halloween spirit.

Meanwhile, Little Tokyo’s Haunted Little Tokyo block party promises an eerie yet entertaining evening filled with spooky attractions and community engagement. These events highlight the rich diversity of Los Angeles, showcasing how different communities come together to celebrate this beloved holiday in their own unique ways.

Fall Fests and More: A Variety of Activities for All Ages

The last weekend of October is brimming with eerie and exciting events. The Huntington’s “Strange Science” exhibition runs from October 24 to 25, offering a blend of history and horror that will captivate visitors. Additionally, the Witch Paddle in Redondo Beach on October 25 provides an adventurous way to enjoy Halloween with friends or family.

For those interested in nature and wildlife, Griffith Park hosts a free festival called Happy P-22 Day on October 25. This event celebrates urban wildlife and raises awareness about the conservation efforts needed for animals like mountain lions that inhabit our city landscapes.

Festivals of Flight: Aviation Enthusiasts Unite

On October 25, Long Beach Airport hosts the Festival of Flight, a free daytime celebration spotlighting various aircraft and the rich history of aviation in the area. Food vendors will offer treats to keep you fueled as you admire the planes on display, making it an ideal outing for those interested in both aviation and local culture.

Grand Ave Arts: A Day Full of Music and Performance

Downtown Los Angeles comes alive with music and art on October 25 during Grand Ave Arts: All Access. This event features pop-up shows and concerts across multiple venues along Grand Avenue, providing a vibrant cultural experience for attendees. The day stretches from Temple to 6th Street, offering a diverse array of performances that cater to all tastes.

Fall Corgi Beach Day: A Canine Celebration

Hundreds of corgis gather in Huntington Beach for Fall Corgi Beach Day on October 25. This event is not only fun for the dogs but also their human companions, who can enjoy a day filled with cute competitions and other activities. The entry is free, making it an accessible way to celebrate this beloved breed.

In Long Beach, pet enthusiasts have another reason to celebrate: the famous Haute Dog Howl’oween Parade on October 26.

This event features adorable group outfits (humans + canines) that take center stage, offering a charming and delightful spectacle for all attendees.

These events not only provide entertainment but also serve as a reminder of the diverse ways in which communities come together to celebrate Halloween. Whether it’s through parades, block parties, or cultural festivals, there is something for everyone in Los Angeles this fall season.