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YEARS YEARS
Volume 45 • Number 7 • October 2026
articles
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•
44 ce 1982
in every issue 8 Publisher’s Letter 10 Our San Diego Families Local families share their Halloween photos 12 Short & Sweet News | Tips | Editor’s Picks 22 October Calendar Birch Aquarium’s Halloween Aglow and tons more family fun! 24 Pumpkin Patches
26 Hispanic Heritage Month Crafts
14 Build Community with Fall Traditions How and why to bring your neighborhood together 16 Science, Animals, Engineering & More Discovering 4-H in San Diego County 18 Take the Hassle Out of Homework Tips to reduce frustration 20 When Besties & Buddies Drift How to help kids navigate changing friendships
28 Día de Muertos Events On the Cover
2026 Afterschool Activities Guide
Visit SanDiegoFamily.co m
4 • SanDiegofamily.com • October 2026
This month we cover afterschool activities, friendships, homework and be so many fun events, you’ll shouting “Fall-elujah!”
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Get to know SanDiegoFamily.com, where you’ll discover these articles and a plethora of awesomeness for parents.
Resources: Afterschool Activities • Why Music Education Matters • Coding for Kids in San Diego
• Maker-Minded: Raising DIY Kids
Things to Do: Seasonal Happenings • Halloween Fun: Crafts, Games, Recipes & More
SAN DIEGO JUNIOR THEATRE Get ready for a sweet family adventure with San Diego Junior Theatre’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory! Follow Charlie Bucket into Willy Wonka’s magical factory, filled with chocolate waterfalls, OompaLoompas, the great glass elevator and favorite songs like “The Candy Man” and “Pure Imagination.” Consider this your golden ticket to a deliciously fun day at the theater. Enter now for your chance to win 4 tickets to Junior Theatre’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Tickets are valid Oct. 23 through Nov. 7. Performances are Fridays at 7 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays at 2 p.m. Contest ends Oct. 20.
Give your next family outing a little more kick with San Diego Wave FC for the last home game of the regular season! Bring the kids, wear your Wave colors and get ready for a match packed with fast-paced women’s soccer, big cheers and hometown pride at Snapdragon Stadium. Enter now for your chance to win four VIP tickets and parking to see San Diego Wave FC take on NWSL newcomers Boston Legacy FC on Sunday, Oct. 25 at 4 p.m. Join the Wave as they celebrate Military Appreciation Night with a commemorative coin for the first fans who enter the gate. Contest ends Oct. 19, 2026.
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October 2026 • SanDiegofamily.com • 7
Publisher’s Letter
Homework, 4-H and Friendships School has been in session for several weeks now; teachers and students are fully immersed in learning and the homework may be increasing. Hopefully, your children have settled into a good routine, but if you need help taking the hassle out of homework, find helpful tips on p. 18. Children’s friendships often change as they grow older. They may have changed schools, moved away, become involved in new activities or simply developed different interests. Sometimes friendships have just run their course. If children still enjoy spending time together but now attend different schools, parents can work together to arrange playdates and other activities. San Diego Family provides ways to expand their circle of friends on p. 20. A great way to make new friends is to join a 4-H club. It isn’t just for children living in rural areas, it’s for families throughout San Diego County. Everyone can get involved, creating opportunities for family friendships, too. I grew up participating in 4-H through cooking, sewing and raising livestock; the county fair was always a big event. Read about what 4-H has to offer today on p. 16. The fall season and Halloween are always a blast—and a great time to build community with neighbors. Find out how on p. 14. Be sure to check our calendar for many fun activities this month, including local pumpkin patches and Día de los Muertos events.
Editorial Publisher/Editor in Chief Sharon Bay sharon@SanDiegoFamily.com Contributing Editor Lisa Gipson editor@SanDiegoFamily.com Calendar Editor Linda Bay events@SanDiegoFamily.com Special Needs Resource Consultant Linda St. Angelo Burritt lindamarysnrf@gmail.com
Design Graphic Design Rik Thiesfeld rik@SanDiegoFamily.com
Editorial Guidelines Find editorial guidelines at SanDiegoFamily.com (“Editorial” at the bottom of the home page). Submission does not guarantee publication. We reserve the right to edit all submissions.
Distribution Locations Pick up a free copy of this month’s issue at Albertsons, select Vons and CVS stores and select public libraries throughout the county.
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San Diego with Kids!
sharon@sandiegofamily.com Main Office: 1475 Sixth Ave. #500, San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: 619-685-6970 Email: family@SanDiegoFamily.com Mission Statement To enhance the quality of life for San Diego County families by providing information and resources that support the importance and pleasure of parenting.
8 • SanDiegofamily.com • October 2026
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San Diego Family Magazine is published monthly by San Diego Family Magazine LLC. Copyright 2026. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily the opinions of this publication.
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Our San Diego
Families
Thank you to all the local families who responded to our request for fall and Halloween-themed photos. Happy October!
This is Angie and Adrian Gomez of Oceanside with little Alessandro (now 2) and Tia Irma (starfish), embracing the “just keep swimming” motto from Finding Nemo. “Last Halloween our son was waiting for a heart transplant, which he received after a total of 419 days,” says mom Angie. “We like to share our story to bring awareness to the importance of organ donation.” Chloe (5) loves dinosaurs! Here she is as “Chloe the Dinosaur Trainer” (with parents Sen and Jasie Gan of Poway) at last year’s North County Mall-oWeen event.
Erin and Erik Johnson of Oceanside absolutely love Halloween and go all out decorating their house and creating family costumes. “Last Halloween was extra special because we were celebrating the news that our son Murphy (13 mos.) would soon become a big brother to another baby boy!” says Erin.
10 • SanDiegofamily.com • October 2026
Here are Coby (4) and Colton (7) at San Diego Metro KOA in Chula Vista. “Camping is our family’s Halloween tradition,” says mom Samantha Valverde of Bonsall. “It is so much fun!”
The Bingham Family of Santee flourishes in the spirit of spooky and the chance to be someone else for a day. Their neighborhood doesn’t have many children, so they love getting Paisley (6), Kayla (7 mos.) and Cooper (2) dressed up to share the joy of adorable kiddos. “My kids can’t wait to make a haunted porch!” says mom Sabrina.
Here is Milaina (6 mos.) of Vista at Carlsbad Pumpkin Patch. Her family loves going to Julian in the fall for pie and cider. On Halloween, they sit in the driveway around a firepit and hand out candy to neighborhood kids.
This is Jeremy and Angelica Preimesberger of Sabre Springs with their children Alina (7) and Jackson (2). Their family’s favorite fall traditions include dressing up for Halloween, watching spooky kids movies, making tricky treats, and decorating the house with creepy crawly spiders, skeletons and bats.
Here are siblings Isabella (8) and Colton (6). “Our favorite Halloween tradition is dressing up in Disneythemed family costumes,” says mom Alexa Torres of Mission Valley. “Last year we did 101 Dalmatians.”
October 2026 • SanDiegofamily.com • 11
Short & Sweet
Lisa Gipson
Editor’s Picks
Kids FREE San Diego is Here! Kids 12 & under can enjoy complimentary admission (with paid adult) to local attractions, museums, aquariums, gardens and more through Oct. 31. Find details and a list of participants at www.sandiegomuseumcouncil.org/specials/kidsfree.
October is ADHD Awareness Month The purpose of ADHD Awareness Month is to educate people about the facts, symptoms and treatment options of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. If you’d like to learn more or access resources, visit the website of our nonprofit, Special Needs Resource Foundation of San Diego, at www.SNRFSD.org. Click on Special Needs Resources: San Diego County, then choose ADD/ADHD in the resources list.
Parents (and Kids) Theater Day Out La Jolla Playhouse is making it easier for parents to attend the theater this month. On Sunday, Oct. 11, parents can attend the matinee performance of A Black-Billed Cuckoo while kids ages 7–12 simultaneously attend “Behind the Curtain,” a childcare theater workshop with La Jolla Playhouse teaching artists. Kids will explore acting, movement, storytelling and creative play through age-appropriate activities. Purchase performance tickets ($64–$74) and reserve the kids workshop ($20 each) at www.lajollaplayhouse.org/ behind-the-curtain.
Families who embrace a little spookiness and whimsy will love The Haunted Playground, written by R.J. Palacio (bestselling author of Wonder) and award-winning illustrator Brett Helquist. This “spine-tingling” picture book with rhyming text follows the adventures of Rex Magnificus and a posse of ghosts who take a break at a neighborhood park. How do they respond when two children interrupt their playtime? Peter’s Halloween Peek-a-Boo! written and illustrated by Beatrix Potter, is an oversized lift-and-find board book, perfect for families with babies and toddlers. Peter Rabbit finds surprises around every corner as he heads through the forest to a Halloween party. My Sister’s Quiñceanera, written by Delia Ruiz (illustrated by Elisa Chavarri) is about Natalia, a little girl excited about her sister’s traditional coming-of-age celebration. Created in collaboration with Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Latino, consider grabbing a copy of this sweet story in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month (appropriate for any time of year).
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library Is Coming to San Diego Perhaps you’re already familiar with the book gifting program Dolly Parton launched in East Tennessee in 1995 to put free books in the hands of preschoolers. Her Imagination Library started reaching families nationwide in 2000 and, as of today, has given more than 330 million age-appropriate books to kids around the world. So, what
12 • SanDiegofamily.com • October 2026
does it mean that Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is “expanding to San Diego”? It means they soon will partner with the local Dr. Seuss Foundation to ensure every San Diego County child from birth to age 5 has a chance to develop a lifelong love of reading. Learn more about the monthly book gifting program at www.imaginationlibrary.com.
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October 2026 • SanDiegofamily.com • 13
Amanda Cavallari
Build Community with Fall Traditions How and why to bring your neighborhood together
There’s just something about the fall season that encourages us to slow down a bit. Maybe it’s the crisp air, pumpkins appearing on porches, the delicious smell of fall recipes on the stove, or evenings when everyone lingers outside a little longer. It’s a perfect time to get to know people who live around you. Building community can be as simple as
waving to a neighbor as you walk by, introducing yourself while the kids play outside, or inviting someone over for a cup of coffee. These moments matter. Research consistently points to the importance of strong relationships and supportive communities for children’s well-being. When kids grow up seeing neighbors connect, help one another, check in
and make time for each other, they learn what it means to be part of a community. Many times, kids make those connections more easily than we do as adults. This season, consider starting a new tradition with neighbors and friends. Here are ideas to get started.
Five Fun Fall Traditions 1. Carve pumpkins together. Instead of carving
pumpkins privately in your own backyard, invite a couple families to join you for a pumpkin decorating party in the driveway. Ask everyone to bring their own carving tools (or décor) and snacks. Put together a fun music playlist to listen to while the kids make a mess and adults supervise and catch up. Scan the QR code for festive nocarve pumpkin decorating ideas.
14 • SanDiegofamily.com • October 2026
2. Host a driveway firepit gathering. Provide chairs, picnic
blankets and a s’mores bar, and invite neighbors to join your family for an evening under the stars. Whip up a batch of Hot Apple Pear Cider to enjoy while sitting around a driveway firepit and watch conversations flow. Find a cider recipe in our Apple Recipe Round-Up at www.sandiegofamily. com/things-to-do/dining-and-recipes/ apple-recipe-round-up.
3. Boo your neighbors. Ever heard of the classic tradition of “booing” your neighbors? Simply pick a family or two and leave a surprise on their doorstep or decorate their yard in a fall or Halloween theme. Use our “Boo Your Neighbors” instructions and free printables to keep the fun going. It’s an easy way to make a neighborhood feel surprisingly connected. Start early in the month so other families have time to boo others on your street before Halloween. Get started at www.sandiegofamily.com/thingsto-do/seasonal-happenings/booneighbors-free-printable. 4. Launch a neighborhood decorating contest. Invite neighbors
to have a lighthearted yard-decorating contest, with categories like “Spookiest Yard,” “Coziest Porch” or “Kids Favorite.” Bragging rights may be more valuable than prizes! The real fun is walking through the neighborhood together to see what everyone came up with. Consider taking our Halloween Scavenger Hunt along as you walk around: www.sandiegofamily.com/ for-the-kids/crafts-for-kids/halloweenbingo-scavenger-hunt.
5. Deliver sweet treats. Make a
batch of brownies, pumpkin muffins, or shortbread cookies and walk
around the neighborhood to deliver them. Get the kids involved by having them make cards to go with them. “We made too many and want to share!” is a perfectly good reason to knock on a neighbor’s door. Scan the QR code to access “Pumpkiny Goodness,” a round-up of awesome pumpkin recipes.
Let Kids Be Involved Community is especially meaningful for children when they’re active participants. Let them decorate invitations, pick snacks for s’mores night, make signs for yard-decorating fun, or hand out cups of cider. If you’re planning a gathering, ask the kids who they’d like to invite. Encourage them to introduce themselves to a new neighbor or invite another child to play.
San Diego Family
FUN FEST Halloween
Create Lasting Connection You might be surprised at how quickly a simple fall gathering becomes an event everyone looks forward to each year. A casual pumpkin-carving night might turn into an annual tradition. A few neighbors might become the families your kids grow up playing with. Familiar faces down the street might become the people you call when you need a hand, want to share good news or need someone to talk to. This fall, take time to build community in your own neighborhood. Spark up a conversation with a neighbor the next time you’re walking the dog, or compliment their yard when you see them out gardening. Start small and see what happens. Meaningful connections help everyone have a happier fall season. v Amanda Cavallari is a lifestyle writer residing in San Diego with her husband and four kids.
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Amanda Cavallari
Science, Animals, Engineering & More
Discovering 4-H in San Diego County When parents hear “4-H,” they often picture kids raising goats, caring for livestock or showing cows at the San Diego County Fair. And that vision would be accurate, but while animals and agriculture are an important part of 4-H, they are only part of a much bigger program. 4-H is a national organization focused on giving kids experiences that build real-life skills through hands-on learning. Youth ages 5–19 can explore a variety of interesting topics to learn about, set and achieve goals, and develop responsibility, confidence and leadership skills in the process. 4-H offers another valuable opportunity: community. “Our family is part of a charter school that is a hybrid homeschool program,” says Amy Jensen of Oceanside. “We were looking for additional ways to interact with other kids in our community.” They found it by joining Surfside 4-H.
As your family considers extracurricular programs, 4-H can offer a unique combination of hands-on learning, friendships, responsibility and opportunities to try something new.
What exactly is 4-H? 4-H is a learn-by-doing youth development program. Kids choose projects based on their interests and work toward goals with guidance from adult volunteers. Depending on the club, projects can include science, engineering, animals, gardening, cooking, arts and crafts, and more. One appealing aspect of 4-H is that there isn’t one singular 4-H experience.
16 • SanDiegofamily.com • October 2026
Margaret (10) does a poultry project presentation with the UC Davis Agriculture Dept.
Every club is different because projects are led entirely by volunteers who bring their own expertise to the group. For 10-year-old Margaret of Oceanside, 4-H is all about the combination of discovery and friendship. “4-H is a community where you can make new friends while learning about different subjects like art, animal care and plants,” she says. Margaret’s interest in farming and farm animals led her family to give 4-H a try. Her local chapter offered a poultry project, and she was particularly excited about the possibility of having chickens. “I presented in front of the UC Davis agriculture team, talking about chicken anatomy and how to tell the difference between a hen and a rooster,” she says.
From Small Engines to Dairy Heifers Jensen’s 10-year-old son Zane participated in the Small Engine Project, where his group took apart, sanded, primed, repainted and reassembled a small tractor. After completing the project, the kids put
Zane (10) from Surfside 4-H the tractor on display at the San Diego County Fair. Jensen’s 13-year-old daughter Eloise had the privilege to work on a dairy project where Hollandia Dairy donated four Holstein heifers for the children to raise, work with and show. Beginning when the animals were just six months old, the kids had to tame and train them to be haltered, walk on a halter and remain under their handler’s control. This past June, Eloise showed her heifer at the San Diego County Fair, where the pair earned first place in breed and first place in showmanship. “The relationship my daughter has developed with Nellie, her one-year-old
local dairy and Holly (22) is a riding instructor at Wylde Horses Therapeutic Riding Facility. Mom Jasmine is the 56 Ranchers community club leader.
Finding the Right Club Eloise (13) of Surfside 4-H in Oceanside
dairy heifer, is something special and an absolute highlight of her time in 4-H,” says Jensen. Another favorite experience for Margaret was competing at the fair with her dairy heifer, Cupcake. “I won the blue ribbon in showmanship for my age group and went on to master showmanship!” she says. Competition is an exciting part of the experience, as it represents months of learning, practice and responsibility.
Celebrating 4-H
The Fair and Beyond The San Diego County Fair is a major highlight for 4-H members because they have opportunities to show their animals, demonstrate skills and exhibit projects they’ve worked on throughout the year. Depending on projects and club, youth can share what they’ve learned in competitions, demonstrations, fundraisers and other events all over Southern California. As California 4-H is a cooperative with UC Davis, most major events are held in that area. However, San Diego County is home to large chapters around Fallbrook, Valley Center and Escondido, with smaller chapters throughout the county.
It’s a Family Affair While the focus is on the kids, families play a major role. “4-H clubs are run completely by parent and family volunteers,” Jensen explains. “All the projects we offer are led by family members who share their interests and knowledge.”
Interested families should look for a club that fits their location, interests, availability and schedule. A standard project meeting may be about an hour per month, but some projects require significantly more time. “Projects like dairy require a lot more involvement and responsibility than an arts and crafts project,” Jensen says. “With multiple children participating in multiple projects, the calendar fills up quickly. I always make sure families are choosing projects that fit their schedule.”
Makayla (18) of 56 Ranchers 4-H in Escondido As the community club leader for Surfside 4-H, part of Jensen’s volunteer role is helping coordinate the club and its projects. “Parents and families are a huge part of our success,” she says. Margaret’s family is also involved. Her dad accompanies her to clean the cow pens multiple times a week, while others provide encouragement and guidance. “The volunteers teach and encourage me to do my best, especially when it’s hard,” Margaret says. The King Family of Escondido began 4-H about 12 years ago with little knowledge of the program. Makayla (18) is in her final year. She is the president of the 56 Ranchers club and is involved in showing pigs, sheep, market chickens and turkeys. Makayla’s siblings also went through 4-H—Chase (20) is now a diesel mechanic at a
The time to learn more about 4-H has never been better. National 4-H Week will be celebrated October 4–10. The theme “Beyond Ready” highlights 4-H’s role in preparing young people for life and careers in a changing world. Throughout the week, current member and alumni celebrations will shine a spotlight on the many ways 4-H helps youth grow in confidence, discover new interests, build friendships, and develop skills they carry for years to come. That is the heart of 4-H: helping kids to become capable, ready and excited for the future. Reach out to your local 4-H club to discover what events are happening in your neighborhood or visit the 4-H booth at San Diego Family’s Halloween Fun Fest on Sunday, Oct. 4 for more information. v Amanda Cavallari is a lifestyle writer residing in San Diego with her husband and four kids.
For information on how to get started in a local 4-H club, visit the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources San Diego County site at https://ucanr.edu/ site/4-h-san-diego-county. October 2026 • SanDiegofamily.com • 17
Shannon Dean
How to Take the Hassle Out of Homework Perhaps this scenario is familiar: Your child is eager to put the school day behind him and promises to do his homework later, since it will only take a few minutes. As bedtime approaches, the homework has “suddenly” sprouted tricky components that require adult help. Everyone is ready for bed, but now homework becomes a group effort in order to get it done. It is often excruciating for parents to sit on their hands while watching their children struggle. Some experts say parents don’t have to watch from the sidelines, but others insist on drawing the line between supporting and doing. Below are tips to avoid this type of frustration when it comes to homework. Why So Much Homework? Many teachers assign homework out of necessity. Class sizes and academic standards may limit the time available to cover required curriculum in the classroom, so schools often rely on homework to reinforce concepts that may have only been introduced at school. The National Education Association and the National PTA both recommend
18 • SanDiegofamily.com • October 2026
10 minutes of homework per grade level: First grade, 10 mins.; third grade, 30 mins.; sixth grade, one hour, etc. Experience demonstrates that the amount of homework varies greatly, depending on school and teachers. According to The American Journal of Family Therapy, students are sometimes given significantly more homework than is recommended. The U.S. Department of Education stresses that children who spend more time on homework perform better academically, but a clinical study from Stanford University found that the majority of students surveyed consider homework a source of stress. Parents can help counter pressure by providing appropriate help in a one-on-one, non-hurried environment—a scenario that is not usually available at school. If it is (maybe your child’s school has a tutoring club), take advantage of it!
How to Help Resistance to homework is understandable, but educators say homework is an important way to reinforce a child’s education. If it helps, think of it (and refer to it) as “practice” instead of homework. A
parent’s approach to homework greatly influences a child’s attitude, so be mindful of how you talk about it in front of them and try to embrace it as a learning opportunity. Stephanie Donaldson-Pressman, who co-wrote a book called The Learning Habit, says smart parents use homework to develop curiosity and establish learning routines that serve kids well beyond school: “The ability to learn is what helps kids succeed in life,” she says.
1.
Consider schedule and study area. Allow
plenty of time in the family schedule for both homework and enjoyable activities. When to tackle homework depends on the child. Some kids need time to decompress after school, while others need to get it out of the way before fatigue makes them ineffective. Ensure the study area is free of distractions and has necessary supplies. Some students respond well to a timer set for an agreed upon amount of time. Once you find a schedule that works, stick with it so that it becomes a habit. Offer incentives, rewards or praise for a job well done.
2.
Be present. A parent’s
presence may be enough to motivate a child. Sometimes kids will need help, which could include answering questions, practicing spelling words, or listening to them read aloud. Experts urge parents to remember that homework is a child’s responsibility. Stick to the role of adviser and be careful not to contradict methods taught in school.
3.
Discuss assignments. Save time and frustration by going over assignments with your kids to make sure they understand what’s being asked (this also avoids the lastminute bedtime rush). If there are any doubts, complete the first part of the assignment together. When the assignment contains several parts, break it into manageable segments. If instructions are vague or your child is truly stuck, reach out to the teacher (better yet, have kids reach out to the teacher if that’s an option). “Sometimes children misinterpret teachers’ intent or directions,” says Amy Broemmel, a professor of education. “Teachers can’t know what homework struggles are happening unless you tell them.”
4.
5.
End on a positive note. Once homework is complete, help children discover their own errors by asking them to explain the answers. Reinforce material by asking open-ended questions or letting children explain their favorite part of the assignment. Remember to treat homework as a path toward healthy academic habits that support important life skills like organization,
time management and setting priorities. Praise effort versus results. This type of support will help children realize that what they do all day is very important to you, that you’re proud of them, and that you value lifelong education. v Shannon Dean is a freelance writer and mother of two sons.
Homework Help at a Glance DO: Offer support without solving.
DON’T: Take Over
• Sit nearby to offer moral support.
• Don’t argue with the teacher’s method.
• Rephrase directions, don’t rewrite them. • Help break assignments into smaller steps.
• Don’t finish a child’s homework.
• Don’t treat every homework assignment like a crisis.
• Praise effort and persistence, not perfection. For San Diego tutoring services and educational apps, visit www.sandiegofamily.com/ resources/education-directory/homework-help-apps-and-san-diego-tutoring-services.
Support kids in the way they learn. Parents who know
how their child learns have a distinct advantage. Teachers often don’t have the luxury of presenting a concept in more than one way, but parents can. For example, when reviewing fractions with a hands-on (or kinesthetic) learner, you might cut an actual pie into halves, fourths and eighths. For kids who learn visually, consider drawing a graph or picture. Students who prefer auditory learning could benefit from listening to a story involving fractions. Imaginative children who are abstract thinkers may respond to personalized concepts. Not sure how your child learns best? Read our article, What’s Your Child’s Preferred Learning Style? at www.sandiegofamily.com/resources/ education-directory/kids-uniquelearning-style. October 2026 • SanDiegofamily.com • 19
Shannon Dean
When Besties & Buddies Drift How to help kids navigate changing friendships
It often happens in the fall. The friend your child couldn’t live without last year is suddenly a stranger, and it’s breaking both your hearts. Friendship shifts are common in the fall, but they can feel devastating to kids (and parents) who remember playdates and sleepovers of years past. Why Friendships Change There are a number of factors as to why friends drift apart: A new school year, new classes, new routines, new extracurriculars, all of which can disrupt existing circles. Students often feel stressed about not having certain friends in class or confused about why old friends are behaving differently. Here’s what parents don’t always realize: It’s often not personal, but developmental. A study published in Early Childhood Research Quarterly found that children’s peer preferences shift as kids mature and develop new interests. That friend who was perfect at age 8 might not work at age 10, simply because they’re growing in different directions. Psychologist Dr. Jennifer Ayres notes, “Our lives expand, our paths diverge, and new people step into the open seats.” While this makes sense in theory, it’s hard to understand when kids suddenly feel left out. The Social Media Complication Kids with social media access watch their friends’ adventures unfold in real time. A child may see a “best friend” at the lake with other kids, having sleepovers without them, and making memories with others, which can be painful. What Parents Can Do Research shows parents play a direct role in helping children navigate friendship shifts. Here’s what experts say actually works:
20 • SanDiegofamily.com • October 2026
Helping Kids Expand Their Friend Circle Sometimes an old friendship is fine, but kids need a wider circle. Here’s how to help. The “Two New Names” Challenge: Each week, ask your child to learn two new classmates’ names and one thing about them. This lowpressure assignment builds social awareness without forcing connection. Activity-Based Connection: Shared activities, like sports, clubs and art classes, create natural opportunities to make friends. Research shows that repeated, unstructured interactions in a shared context are the most reliable way to form new friendships. One New Friend at a Time: Remind kids that it isn’t a popularity contest. One genuine friend is worth more than 10 acquaintances.
Listen carefully: When your child talks about a friendship change, start by listening. Reiterate what you hear, including feelings. For example, “It sounds like you’re feeling hurt that Janie wanted to hang out with other kids.” Then empathize: “I’d feel sad too, if that happened to me.” Sometimes, that’s all they need. When kids feel heard, they often don’t need solutions. They just need to know someone understands. Normalize the shift: Let kids know that friendship changes are normal— not a sign that something is wrong with them. Licensed Clinical Social Worker Cathy Cassani Adams encourages parents to normalize misunderstandings, hurt feelings, social media posts that create FOMO (fear of missing out), and weekends
when one group of friends is chosen over another. The more you talk about friendship as something fluid (versus fixed) the less scary it is. Coach, don’t rescue: When kids want help, coach them through it rather than fixing. Ask questions: “What could you do to improve things? What else could you try?” Often, children come up with their own solutions when prompted. This builds problem-solving skills and gives them ownership of the outcome. Help kids stay connected (or make new connections): If kids want to maintain an old friendship, help them find ways outside of school, such as weekend hangouts and playdates. If a friendship has run its course, help them look forward: What new kids could they get to know? What afterschool activities, clubs or sports might introduce them to new friends?
kids play free
all october!
Celebrate Kids Free October at the Children’s Museum of Discovery! Explore hands-on exhibits, STREAM activities, and endless opportunities to play and learn together! Up to two children (12 and under) receive FREE ADMISSION with one full-price paid adult.
PLAN YOUR VISIT TODAY!
visitcmod.org 320 North Broadway, Escondido, CA 92025
Experts say that positive peer relationships are foundational for mental health. Parents can be supportive by providing opportunities for children to interact with peers in shared activities. Watch for warning signs: A little sadness is to be expected. If your child remains withdrawn, irritable or seems to lose interest in activities they once loved, reach out to your child’s teacher for insight, and consider seeking extra support from a school counselor or therapist. A change in friends is a normal part of growing up. By listening, normalizing and coaching, you’re providing tools to handle not just this friendship shift, but the ones still to come. That’s the real gift—teaching kids how to navigate a world where relationships constantly evolve. Shannon Dean is a freelance writer and mother of two sons.
Discover the World of
Montessori
“A Montessori Student is a Future Citizen of the World” ENCINITAS COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL Preschool/Elementary/Middle Lic. #372005943
Two Locations in Encinitas
760-942-1111 www.ecdschools.org
October 2026 • SanDiegofamily.com • 21
Calendar Halloween Safety Month • National Book Month • National Apple Month
October
Still looking for last month’s events? Check out the digital edition of our September issue at SanDiegoFamily.com
Halloween Aglow
Embrace your inner scientist in the Boo and Goo Lab and discover the wonders of the sea after dark while you trick-or-treat in Adam R. Scripps Living Seas Gallery with glowing surprises around every corner. October 23–24, 6–8:30 pm. $49.95–$59.95. Birch Aquarium at Scripps, 2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla. https://aquarium.ucsd.edu
Don’t forget to call to confirm dates, times and admission prices.
thursday | 1 LEGO Galaxy. All-new space-themed land with an indoor family coaster, two other cosmic rides, brand-new food and retail options, incredible LEGO space models, space-themed activities, and adventures for explorers of all ages. Open daily. One LEGOLAND Dr., Carlsbad. www.legoland.com UltraStar Cinemas Discount Thursdays. 50% off all movie tickets and popcorn. 7510 Hazard Center Dr. Showtimes: www.ultrastarmovies.com
22 • SanDiegofamily.com • October 2026
FREE Party at the Pop Jet at Del Mar Highlands. Family-friendly entertainment. Today & Oct. 31, 10–11:30 am. 12925 El Camino Real. www.delmarhighlandstowncenter.com Ringers at Seaport Village. An openair roller-skating experience along the Embarcadero. Open daily. 821 West Harbor Dr. www.seaportvillage.com/ explore/ringers-roller-rink “Begin Again.” Set against the exhilarating backdrop of New York City, this musical is about rediscovering passion, purpose and the courage to start over. Through Oct. 11. Old Globe Theatre, Balboa Park. www.theoldglobe.org
“Good Night, Oscar.” Experience the glamorous and not-so-glamorous behindthe-scenes chaos of show business at its peak. Through Oct. 11, closed Mon.– Tues. North Coast Repertory Theatre, 987 Lomas Santa Fe Dr., Solana Beach. www.northcoastrep.org The Haunted Trail of Balboa Park. Select dates through Nov. 1. $34.99. For ages 10+. Balboa Dr. & Juniper Rd. www.hauntedtrail.net FREE Fallbrook Scarecrow Days. Scarecrows displayed all over town. Through Oct. 31. www.fallbrookchamberofcommerce.org
Pony Rides. Children enjoy two laps around the farm zoo. $14 per ride. Daily. Bates Nut Farm, 15954 Woods Valley Rd., Valley Center. www.batesnutfarm.biz
friday | 2 SeaWorld Spooktacular. Baby Shark Halloween show, trick-or-treating, interactive adventures and seasonal entertainment. Fri.–Sun. through Nov. 1. Kids ages 3–9 receive free one-day admission with the purchase of adult ticket through Oct. 500 SeaWorld Dr. www.seaworld.com Haunted Corn Maze. Fridays & Saturdays through Oct. 31. 7–10 pm. $25. Carlsbad Strawberry Fields, Cannon Rd. & I-15. www.carlsbadstrawberrycompany.com
FREE First Friday Oceanside Art Walk. Celebrate the thriving arts and culture scene in the heart of downtown Oceanside. 5–8 pm. Artist Alley. www.visitoceanside.org Roar & Snore Safari. Experience a sleepover and observe the nighttime activities of wildlife and morning wildlife presentations. Today, tomorrow, Oct. 9, 10, 16, 24 & 30. Starting at $205. Safari Park, 15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd., Escondido. www.sdzsafaripark.org
saturday | 3
Oktoberfest in El Cajon. Kids’ zone, games, music and more. Through Oct. 4. 1017 S. Mollison Ave. Tickets: www.germanclubsandiego.org
Sunset Scripps Pier Walks. Walking tours of Scripps Pier featuring hands-on science stations, squid dissections, local shark research and more. Today, tomorrow, Oct. 10, 11 & 18; times vary with sunset. $40. Birch Aquarium at Scripps. Advance registration required: www.aquarium.ucsd.edu
HalGLOWeen. Eerie-sistible entertainment, interactive festivities and lots of spooky surprises. Fri., Sat. & Sun. in October. 5 pm to close. San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park. www.sdzwa.org
Brick-or-Treat. Trick-or-treating, Brick or Treat Street, interactive light trail and more. Weekends through Nov. 1. Included with admission. LEGOLAND, One LEGOLAND Dr., Carlsbad. www.legoland.com
FREE Summer Movies in the Park: “Toy Story 5.” La Jolla Rec Ctr., 615 Prospect St. Full Schedule: www.summermoviesinthepark.com
San Marcos Halloween Spooktacular. A festive, family-friendly evening. 4–8 pm. $15. Williams Barn at Walnut Grove Park, 1950 Sycamore Dr. www.san-marcos.net
FREE First Friday La Jolla Art Walk. Wander through galleries and pop-up artists. 4–7 pm. 1205 Prospect St. www.lajollabythesea.com
FREE Rendezvous in Poway. Walk back in time to the 1820–1890s, pan for gold and more. Today, 10 am–4 pm & tomorrow, 10 am–2 pm. Old Poway Park, 14134 Midland Rd. www.poway.org
Movies on the Beach. Tonight, 8 pm, Oct. 3, 9, 10, 11, 16, 17, 23, 24, 30 & 31 at 7:30 pm. $25.75. Del Beach, 1500 Orange Ave., Coronado. Full schedule: www.hoteldel.com Wizarding Themed Tea Experience. All themed teas are different, most include a “Did You Know?” intro, a game, quiz and a take home gift. Through Nov. 1, 12:30 & 3:30 pm. $64.95. The Britannia Tearooms, 2323 Midway Dr. Reservations: www.afternoonteasandiego.com
Julian Autumn Jubilee. Weekends through Oct. 25, 10 am–5 pm. Fort Cross, 4425 Hwy. 78, Santa Ysabel. Tickets: www.fortcross.com SDSU Aztec Football Home Game. Today, Oct. 17 & 31. Snapdragon Stadium, 2101 Stadium Way. Tickets: www.goaztecs.com Haunted Harvest. Haunted hayride, ghost stories and more. Today, Oct. 10, 17, 24 & 30; 7:30 & 8 pm. $30. 4425 Hwy. 78, Santa Ysabel. Reservations required: www.fortcross.com San Diego Tijuana International Jazz Festival. 3–9:30 pm. California Center for the Arts, Escondido, 340 N. Escondido Blvd. Details & tickets: www.artcenter.org Trolley Dances. Presented by San Diego Dance Theater. Tour begins and ends at the UTC Transit Station. Today & tomorrow. $45. www.sandiegodancetheater.org/ trolley-dances Fall Festivals. Pumpkin patch, corn maze and more. Weekends through Nov. 1; 10 am–4 pm. $5 parking. Mellano Farmstand, 5714 N. River Rd., Oceanside. www.mellanofarmstand.com Pumpkin Festival Craft Fair. Today & tomorrow, 9 am–4 pm. Parking, $10. Bates Nut Farm, 15954 Woods Valley Rd., Valley Center. https://batesnutfarm.biz FREE Pacific Beachfest. Family-friendly, music-packed event. 9 am–7 pm. Felspar to Thomas St. www.pacificbeachfest.org
FREE Belmont Park’s Beachside Fall Fest
Seasonal entertainment, Halloween characters, trick-or-treating, live music and more. Weekends through Oct. 31. 3146 Mission Blvd. www.belmontpark.com
FREE La Mesa Oktoberfest. Kids activities, food, games and more. Today, 4–10 pm; tomorrow, 10 am–10 pm & Oct. 4, 12–8 pm. www.lamesavillageassociation.org Howl-O-Scream at SeaWorld. Select dates through Oct. 31. 7 pm–close. Recommended for adults only. $35.99. 500 SeaWorld Dr. www.seaworld.com October 2026 • SanDiegofamily.com • 23
Pumpkin Patches
Photo courtesy of
Family Chr istmas
Tree Far m
FREE Pumpkin Station. Giant slides, rides, petting zoo, pumpkins and more. Attractions require a separate ticket. Daily through Oct. 31. Hours vary by location. • Del Mar, 15555 Jimmy Durante Blvd. • Plaza Bonita, 3030 Plaza Bonita Rd. • Rancho Bernardo Farm, 13421 Highland Valley Rd. • Bonita Pumpkin Farm, 5354 Sweetwater Rd. www.pumpkinstation.com Family Christmas Tree Farm Pumpkin Patch. Pumpkins, tractor rides, hay maze and more. Oct.1– Oct. 31. Open daily, 10 am–8 pm. $7. 300 Pepper Dr., El Cajon. www.familychristmastreefarm.com Pumpkin Patch at Carlsbad Strawberry Company. Pumpkins, corn maze, tractor rides, photo ops and more. Oct.1– Nov. 8. Sun.–Thurs., 9 am–6 pm; Fri.–Sat., 9 am–10 pm. 1050 Cannon Rd., Carlsbad. www.carlsbadstrawberrycompany.com Pumpkins in the Pines. Pumpkin patch, pumpkin painting, Sleepy Hollow puppet show and more. Saturdays & Sundays in October. $49–$59; parking, $15. Skypark, 28950 California 18, Skyforest. www.skyparksantasvillage.com
Family Christm as Tree Farm Pumpkin Patch Pumpkin Patch at Bates Nut Farm. Tractor hayrides, a straw maze and more. Activity tickets, $2.50. Oct.1– Oct. 31. Weekend parking, $10. 15954 Woods Valley Rd., Valley Center. https:// batesnutfarm.biz FREE Goff Family Pumpkin Patch at Liberty Station. Oct. 1– Oct. 31, Sun.–Thurs., 9 am–8 pm & Fri.–Sat., 9 am–9 pm. 2830 Perry Rd. www.gofffamilypumpkinpatch.com Peltzer Pumpkin Farm. Pumpkins, petting farm and more. Oct. 1–Oct. 31. Mon.–Fri., 10 am–8 pm; Sat. & Sun., 9 am–8 pm. $2–$4. 39925 Calle Contento, Temecula. www.peltzerfarms.com
@jennythaiphotography
FREE Summers Past Farm Pumpkin Patch. Pumpkins, corn maze, hay fort and more. Closed Mon.–Wed. 15602 Olde Hwy. 80, Flinn Springs. www.summerspastfarms.com FREE Fallbrook Pumpkin Patch. Wed.–Fri., 4–8 pm; Sat., 10 am–8 pm; Sun., 12–8 pm (closed Mon. & Tues.). Oct.1– Oct. 31. 1924 E. Mission Rd., Fallbrook. www.fallbrookpumpkinpatch.com
Pumpkin Station 24 • SanDiegofamily.com • October 2026
FREE Mr. Jack O’ Lanterns Pumpkin Patch. Pumpkins, seasonal photo opportunities and family-friendly fall activities. Oct. 2 – Nov. 1. 3901 Clairemont Dr. www.mrjackolanternspumpkins.com
Calendar • October The Count’s Halloween Spooktacular. Silly, not-too-spooky fun. Weekends through Nov. 1, 10 am–6 pm. 2052 Entertainment Cir., Chula Vista. www.sesameplace.com “Ticket to Ride.” Brings the sights, sounds, harmonies and spirit of The Beatles to life. 7:30 pm. Center Theater, California Center for the Arts, Escondido, 340 N. Escondido Blvd. www.artcenter.org LEGOLAND Water Park. Seven slides, Build-A-Raft River, Pirate Reef and more. Weekends through Oct. 25. One LEGOLAND Dr., Carlsbad. www.legoland.com Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest. Bands, beer, food and more. Weekends through Nov. 7. Sundays are Family Fun Days, kids under 12 are free. Big Bear Convention Center, 42900 Big Bear Blvd. Tickets: www.bigbearevents.com
FREE Spreckels Organ Society Concerts. Sundays, 2–3 pm. Pavilion-Pan American Pl., Balboa Park. www.spreckelsorgan.org
24 & 31; 9 am–1 pm. $10–$19. Helen Woodward Animal Center, 6447 Helen Woodward Way, Rancho Santa Fe. www.animalcenter.org
Super Hero Obstacle Race. Dress up like your favorite superhero and conquer inflatable mazes and slides, wrecking balls, tight ropes, web crawlers and other obstacles. 8–10 am. $33. Must be 4 years and older. Alga Norte Community Park, 6565 Alicante Rd. Register: www.carlsbadca.gov
FREE Fall Fun Festival. Children’s activities, scarecrow contest, music and more. 10 am–3 pm. $5. Alta Vista Botanical Gardens, 1270 Vale Terrace Dr., Vista. https://altavistabotanicalgardens.org
tuesday | 6 Residents FREE Days at Balboa Park. Park museums offer free admission on Tuesdays on a rotating basis throughout the month to residents of the City and County of San Diego, and to active military personnel and their dependents. Schedule: www.balboapark.org
Rooftop Cinema: “Toy Story 5.” Classic cinema concessions, personal headphones and an amazing view. 12:45 pm. $11–$20. The Porto Vista Hotel, 1835 Columbia St., Little Italy. Full schedule: www.rooftopcinemaclub.com
thursday | 8
FREE Mira Mesa Street Fair. Hawaiianthemed event with special performances and family activities. 10 am–5 pm. Off Mira Mesa Blvd. and Camino Ruiz. www.miramesatowncouncil.org
friday | 9
sunday | 4 First FREE Sunday at Oceanside Museum of Art. Enjoy a fun hands-on art-making experience led by artists and cultural partners from the community. 12–2 pm. 704 Pier View Way. www.oma-online.org
Residents FREE at the Gaslamp Museum. Every 2nd Thursday, 10 am–4 pm. 410 Island Ave. www.gaslampmuseum.org
Jimbo’s Garden Workshop. A special garden workshop in the Trudy Bronner Discovery Garden with local, seasonal ingredients. 11–11:30 am. $14. Children’s Museum of Discovery, 320 N. Broadway, Escondido. www.visitcmod.org
saturday | 10 Howl-O-Ween Harvest Family Festival. Fall-themed hands-on animal encounters, festive crafts and more. Today, Oct. 17,
San Diego Family
FUN FEST
Halloween
FREE San Diego Family Fun Fest: Halloween
Spooky activities, resource booths, crafts and more. Oct. 4, 10 am–1 pm. The Salvation Army Kroc Center Corner Zone, 6845 University Ave. Register for free tickets at sdfamilyhalloween2026.eventbrite.com
Ivey Ranch Park Western Hoedown. A western-themed fundraiser with steakhouse barbecue dinner, equestrian demonstrations, hayrides, Kids’ Corral and more. 4:30–8:30 pm. $65–$85. Ivey Ranch Park Equestrian Center, 110 Rancho del Pro Dr., Oceanside. www.iveyranch.com Sensory Friendly Mornings. For families who would enjoy and appreciate a quieter museum experience with fewer guests and less stimulation than our general museum hours offer. Quarterly, select Saturdays. 9–11 am. $20–$24. The New Children’s Museum, 200 W. Island Ave. www.thinkplaycreate.org FREE La Jolla Art & Wine Festival. Geppetto’s Toys Family Art Center offering hands-on activities for children of all ages, live music, art and more. Today & tomorrow, 10 am–6 pm. www.ljawf.com San Diego Serbian Festival. Folk dancing, kids’ zone and more. 12–11 pm. $5. St. George Serbian Orthodox Church, 3025 Denver St. www.sdserbianfestival.com Scarecrow Contest. Design and build a scarecrow. 11 am–1 pm. Bates Nut Farm, 15954 Woods Valley Rd., Valley Center. www.batesnutfarm.biz Boarded! A New Pirate Adventure. Interactive show where participants learn pirate skills. 10:30 am & 12:45 pm. $38–$92. Maritime Museum of San Diego, 1492 N. Harbor Dr. www.sdmaritime.org 7–Bridges Hike/Walk for Holiday Magic. Walk through Balboa Park and over the famous seven bridges. Benefits kids in children’s hospitals. 9 am–12 noon. Starting at $30. Register: www.holidaymagiccd.com/events San Diego Gulls. Tonight, Oct. 14, 21, 24 & 31. Pechanga Arena, 3500 Sports Arena Blvd. Tickets: www.sandiegogulls.com October 2026 • SanDiegofamily.com • 25
Get Crafty for
Hispanic Heritage Month National Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, to encompass the independence days of several Latin American countries.
Doing culturally appropriate art projects with mini history lessons is a fun way to learn about various communities in Mexico and countries in Central and South America. Scan the QR code to find instructions for the projects below on our website, including where each project originates. Projects were provided by local, award-winning art educator, Alyssa Navapanich. www.sandiegofamily.com/things-to-do/seasonal-happenings/celebrate-hispanicheritage-month-san-diego-with-kids
Calendar • October sunday | 11 FREE San Marcos Harvest Fest. Interactive activities, live music and more. 9 am–5 pm. Along North City Dr. www.smharvest.com Bernardo Winery Sunset Concerts. 5–8 pm. $42. 13330 Paseo Del Verano Norte. www.bernardowinery.com
monday | 12 Butterfly Walk at the San Diego Botanic Garden. Today & Oct. 26, 10 am. $12–$20. 300 Quail Gardens Dr., Encinitas. www.sdbg.org
tuesday | 13 San Diego International Film Festival. Celebrating 25 years with its biggest lineup yet. Through Oct. 18. Tickets & schedule: www.sdfilmfest.com
wednesday | 14 Bird Walk at the San Diego Botanic Garden. Every second Wed., 10 am. $12– $20. 300 Quail Gardens Dr., Encinitas. www.sdbg.org
Alebrijes (Mexico City)
thursday | 15 Autumn Harvest Teas. A harvest-themed version of the four course Cottage Classic Tea. 11:30 am, 1 & 2:30 pm. Through Oct. 19. $15.95–$44.95. Reservations required. Julian Tea & Cottage Arts, 2124 Third St. www.juliantea.com
Amate Bark Paintings (Mexico)
Worry Dolls (Guatemala)
friday | 16 FREE Hauntfest on Main. Carnival rides, costume contests, crafts and more. 4–9 pm. Downtown El Cajon. www.elcajon.gov Mission BayFest. Music festival. Through Oct. 18. Mariner’s Point Park, 3119 Mariners Way. Tickets: www.bayfestsd.com FREE Fright for Future. A haunted maze of “true terrors” bringing scary issues concerning people, planet and animals to light. For ages 10+. Oct. 16–18 & 23–25, 5–9 pm. $10. 3720 El Cajon Blvd. www.frightforfuture.org
God’s Eyes La Boca Houses (Argentina)
26 • SanDiegofamily.com • October 2026
(Sierra Madre Occidental, Mexico)
Harvest Festival. Today & tomorrow, 10 am–4 pm. $4–$9; 12 & under free. New location! Hangar 858, 3760 Glenn H. Curtiss Rd. www.harvestfestival.com
FREE Galbani Bella Vita Fest. Celebrate Italian culture with chalk art paintings, live music and more. Today, 11 am–6 pm & tomorrow, 11 am–5 pm. Little Italy, downtown San Diego. www.bellavitafest.com Scream Diego. Celebrating all things horror and spooky, including a kids’ zone with fun and spooky activities. 10 am–6 pm. $20; 8 & under free. Doubletree by Hilton Mission Valley, 7450 Hazard Ctr. Dr. www.screamdiego.com
sunday | 18
Pumpkin Plunge
Howl-O-Sprint 5K & Kids Fun Run. This 3.1-mile course will take you on a thrilling and chilling journey through the grounds of SeaWorld. 5K, 7 am; fun run, 8:30 am. $29–$66. 500 SeaWorld Dr. www.seaworldsandiego.com
Pool activities, games, bounce house, the Floating Pumpkin Patch and more. Oct. 17, 5–8 pm. $15. Alga Norte Aquatic Center, 6565 Alicante Rd., Carlsbad. www.carlsbadca.gov Fun Friday Nights. Games, crafts, pizza and movies. For ages 4–11. 6–10 pm. $25. San Marcos Community Ctr., 3 Civic Center Dr. www.sanmarcosca.gov
saturday | 17 Antique Tractor Show. Kids’ activities, crafts, games and more. Today, tomorrow & Oct. 24–25. 9 am–4 pm. $10; under 3 free. Antique Gas & Steam Engine Museum, 2040 N. Santa Fe Ave., Vista. www.agsem.com
Hoot, Howl and Prowl. Meet the canyon’s “wildlife” (docents dressed in animal costumes) up close and end the evening with a cup of hot chocolate. 5:30–7:15 pm. $5. Blue Sky Ecological Reserve, 16275 Espola Rd., Poway. 2026 JT Charlie Family Mag.pdf www.poway.org
wednesday | 21
1
Family Craft Night: Pumpkin Monsters. Transform a miniature pumpkin into a silly, spooky or goofy monster. 8:30 am–5 pm. $5. San Marcos Community Center, 3 Civic Ctr. Dr., San Marcos. Register: 8/15/26 3:24 PM www.sanmarcosca.gov
FREE Bernardo Winery Fall Arts & Crafts Fair. Over 125 vendors. Today & tomorrow, 10 am–5 pm. 13330 Paseo Del Verano Norte. www.bernardowinery.com FREE Borrego Days Desert Festival. Kids zone, food and more. Today & tomorrow. Christmas Cir. Community Park, Palm Canyon Dr. www.borregodays.com
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FREE Fallbrook Harvest Faire. Pumpkin and costume contests, pumpkin patch and more. 9 am–4 pm. Main Ave. www.fallbrookchamberofcommerce.org
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Boo! At the Zoo. Candy stations, apple cider and flashlights. Today, Oct. 24, 25 & 30; 6 pm. $26–$48. Wild Wonders, 5712 Via Montellano, Bonsall. www.wildwonders.org
CMY
K
The Garden Goes Batty: Return of the Bat. Spooky family fun with trick-or-treat stations, music and more. 5–7:30 pm. $18; 3 & under free. The Water Conservation Garden, 12122 Cuyamaca College Dr. W., El Cajon. www.thegarden.org October 2026 • SanDiegofamily.com • 27
Día Día d e lo de loss M uerto s Muertos
The official dates of Día de Muertos are November 1 and 2, but there are plenty of festivities around the county this month. Honor loved ones at one (or more) of these celebrations that are rooted in family tradition and community. Scan the QR code to find fun craft projects and a stunning cake recipe for Día de Muertos.
Oct. 1 FREE Fiesta de Reyes Día de los Muertos–La Experiencia. Family-friendly experience with decorated skulls and skeletons, traditional and contemporary altars and thousands of marigold-inspired details. Through Nov. 2, 10 am–9 pm. www.fiestadereyes.com
Oct. 11 FREE Vista’s Día de los Muertos Festival–Muertos on Santa Fe. Family-friendly celebration with sugar skull decorating, children’s activities and more. 11 am–5 pm. Along S. Santa Fe Ave. www.eventbrite.com/e/vistas-inaugural-dia-de-muertosfestival-2026-tickets-1992435584468
Oct. 17 Día de los Muertos at Rancho Guajome Adobe. Community altars, live entertainment and arts and crafts. 10 am–4 pm. $3–$6. 2210 N. Santa Fe Ave., Vista. www.sdparks.org/ranchoguajomeadobe Día de los Muertos Festival. Community Ofrenda, live music, corn maze and more. Today & tomorrow, 10 am–4 pm. Parking, $5. Mellano Farmstand, 5714 N. River Rd., Oceanside. www.mellanofarmstand.com
Oct. 18 FREE Día de los Muertos Celebration. Piñatas for kids, a Catrin/Catrina costume contest, crafts, a scavenger hunt and more. 10 am–5 pm. La Colonia Park, 715 Valley Ave., Solana Beach. www.cityofsolanabeach.ca.gov
28 • SanDiegofamily.com • October 2026
Oct. 25 FREE Encinitas Día de los Muertos. Art-making workshops, live Mariachi and more. 12–4 pm. MiraCosta College San Elijo Campus, 3333 Manchester Ave., Cardiff. www.encinitasarts.org/ programs/encinitas-dia-de-los-muertos-celebration FREE Día de los Muertos Festival. Altars, chalk ceremonies and more. 10 am–4 pm. Downtown Oceanside. www.friendsofoceansidediadelosmuertos.org
Oct. 31 SeaWorld Día de los Muertos. Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and flavors of this cherished Mexican holiday. Today & tomorrow. Included with admission. 500 SeaWorld Dr. www.seaworld.com FREE Día de Los Muertos at Rancho Leo Carrillo. Honoring tradition, community and remembrance with face painting, a traditional Ofrenda, arts and crafts and more. 10 am–2 pm. Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park, 6200 Flying Leo Carrillo Ln., Carlsbad. www.carlsbadca.gov Halloween Party Cruise. Día de los Muertos–themed cruise across Mission Bay. 6:30–midnight. For adults only. $50. Bahia Hotel, 998 W. Mission Bay Dr. www.bahiahotel.com
Calendar • October thursday | 22 Oceans at Night: Halloween. Dive into interactive games, cool science, hauntingly delicious drinks, live music and more. 6:30–9:30 pm. For ages 21+. $59.95. Birch Aquarium at Scripps, 2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla. https://aquarium.ucsd.edu
friday | 23 Spooky Campover. Fall-themed activities, pumpkin carving and plenty of wildlifeinspired adventure under the stars. $55– $80. Lions, Tigers & Bears, 24402 Martin Way, Alpine. www.lionstigersandbears.org
GREAT PARTY PACKAGES!
• Birthdays • Scout Troops • Mommy Groups • Kid Camps • Bridal Parties
Come In, Relax & Enjoy Creating Liberty Station 2770 Historic Decatur Rd. Barracks 14 (619) 223-1339
4S Ranch/Poway 10445 Craftsman Way SD 92127 (858) 536-6488
www.thehotspotstudios.com
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KPBS Kids Event: Elinor Wonders Why. Storytime, crafts and more. 10 am–12 noon. $17. Children’s Museum of Discovery, 320 N. Broadway, Escondido. www.visitcmod.org “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.” Enjoy songs from the motion picture including “The Candy Man,” “Oompa Loompa Song,” and “Pure Imagination.” Fri.–Sun., through Nov. 8. $23–$28. Casa del Prado Theatre, Balboa Park. www.juniortheatre.com
saturday | 24 SD Trick & Flip is where kids climb, flip, tumble and play! Explore Ninja, Tricking, Tumbling, Open Play, Kids’ Nights, Camps and Birthday Parties. Come move, build confidence and have fun with us!
Midway’s Fright Deck: Halloween Party & Movie Night. A swashbuckling evening of Halloween fun featuring an outdoor screening of Disney’s “Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl.” 6 pm. $16–$26. USS Midway Museum, Flight Deck, 910 N. Harbor Dr. www.midway.org “American Icons.” A dazzling display of musicality, precision, and pure classical dance. Today & tomorrow. Balboa Theatre, 868 Fourth Ave. www.cityballet.org Pumpkin Bash. Bears and big cats pounce, smash and snack on pumpkins. 10 am. $35–$60. Lions, Tigers & Bears, 24402 Martin Way, Alpine. www.lionstigersandbears.org
Move. Play. Grow. SAN DIEGO’S ULTIMATE KIDS MOVEMENT PLAYGROUND!
OCTOBER SPECIAL: Mention San Diego Family Magazine and receive
20% OFF
your first month of classes!
Pumpkin Express. Train rides, pumpkin decorating, haunted train cars and more. Today, tomorrow & Oct. 31; 10:30 am, 1 & 2:30 pm. $18.95–$39.95. Pacific Southwest Railway Museum, 750 Depot St., Campo. Reservations: www.psrm.org FREE Once Upon a Hallowe’en. Halloween parade, carnival games, train rides and more. 4:30–8:30 pm. Activities, $1. Old Poway Park, 14134 Midland Rd. www.poway.org
Seasonal themed hands-on animal encounters, festive crafts, & more!
October 10, 17, 24, & 31 9:00 AM—1:00 PM
sigN up todaY!
animalcenter.org/Education
October 1—November 10 By Appointment (Schools, Scouts, & Playgroups)
October 2026 • SanDiegofamily.com • 29
Calendar • October Halloween Campout. Spooky night hike, a costume contest, trick-or-treating and a craft. Today, 1 pm–tomorrow, 10 am. $80 per car. Lake Poway, 14644 Lake Poway Rd. www.poway.org Howl-o-Ween Mutt Run 5K Run/Walk. Costume contest, prizes and more. 8:30 am. $60. Road Runner Sports, 5553 Copley Dr. www.labsandmore.org Halloween Spooktacular at Santee Lakes. Trunk-or-treating, games, inflatables, pirates and more. 10 am–2 pm. Parking, $10. 9310 Fanita Pkwy. www.santeelakes.com FREE Fallbrook Halloween Festival. 3–6 pm. Fallbrook Community Center, 341 Heald Ln. Details: www.fallbrookchamberofcommerce.org FREE Boo Bash 2026. A Halloween party for LGBTQ+ youth and their families. 2–5 pm. 3845 Spring Dr., Spring Valley. https://transfamilysos.org/boobash FREE Halloween Carnival. Miramar Ranch Elementary School, 10770 Red Cedar Dr. Details: www.miramarranch.org
sunday | 25 FREE Halloween at the Station. Inflatable obstacle courses, crafts, trick-ortreating and more. Costumes encouraged. 12–4 pm. Ingram Plaza, Liberty Station. www.libertystation.com FREE Trick-or-Treat on India Street. A Nightmare Before Christmas-themed Piazza della Famiglia featuring a giant Jack Skellington and towering pumpkin stacks for photos and more. 3:30–7:30 pm. Little Italy. www.littleitalysd.com San Diego Wave FC. Cheer on our national women’s soccer team. 4 pm. Snapdragon Stadium, 2101 Stadium Way. Tickets: www.sandiegowavefc.com “An Evening with Celtic Thunder 2026: Celebrate Your Favorite Songs.” An unforgettable evening of music, memories and camaraderie. 3–5 pm. Starting at $40. California Center for the Arts, Escondido, 340 N. Escondido Blvd. www.artcenter.org FREE Belmont Park Trunk or Treat. 3–6 pm. 3146 Mission Blvd. www.belmontpark.com FREE Gather on Grand. Family activities, interactive art and more. 9 am–5 pm. Grand Ave., downtown Escondido. www.downtownescondido.com
30 • SanDiegofamily.com • October 2026
tuesday | 27 National Parks Fee FREE Days. All National Park Service sites that charge an entrance fee will offer free admission to everyone. https://home.nps.gov/ planyourvisit/passes.htm#free_entrance_ days
wednesday | 28 A Haunting in Venice Cruise. Celebrate Halloween on a gondola cruise through the eerie canals and spooky waterways of the Coronado Cays. Through Oct. 31. Starting at $139. The Gondola Company, 503 Grand Caribe Causeway, Coronado. www.gondolacompany.com
friday | 30 FREE Trick-or-Treat at Carmel Mountain Ranch Town Center. Kids 12 and under are invited to put on their costumes, bring a bag and trick-or-treat. 3–5 pm. Just east of I-15 at Carmel Mtn. Rd. and Highland Rd. FREE Trick-or-Treat at EastLake Village Marketplace. Children ages 12 and under who are dressed in costume and accompanied by an adult will receive free treats from participating businesses. 3–5 pm. Corner of Otay Lakes Rd. & EastLake Pkwy., Chula Vista. www.shopeastlakemarketplace.com Fun Animal Friday. Storytime, hands-on activity and an animal meet-and-greet. 10–11:30 am. $14. Children’s Museum of Discovery, 320 N. Broadway, Escondido. www.visitcmod.org
Bayside Boo. A night of spooky beats and sweet treats. 6:30–9:30 pm. Seaport Village, 849 W. Harbor Dr. www.seaportvillage.com Trick-or-Treat Symphony. Flying bats, swirling dances and a dash of orchestral mischief. Crafts, costumes and trick-ortreat fun before the concert. 11 am. For ages 6-12. $36. Jacobs Music Center, 1245 Seventh Ave. www.sandiegosymphony.org Halloween Family Day. San Diego Model Railroad Museum, Balboa Park. Details: www.sdmrm.org FREE Halloween Spooktacular at The Forum Carlsbad. Trick-or-treating, creepy characters, games, music and more. 2–5 pm. 1905 Calle Barcelona. www.theforumcarlsbad.com FREE Halloween in the Village. Trickor-treating, carnival games, bounce house and more. 2–6 pm. 2695 State St. www.carlsbad-village.com FREE The Super Dentists 27th Annual Spooktacular. Carnival games, face painting and more. 11 am–1 pm. 2226 Otay Lakes Rd. www.thesuperdentists.com FREE Adams Avenue Halloween Haunt. Costumes, candy and fall festivities. 3–6 pm. Adams Ave. www.adamsavenuebusiness.com FREE Encinitas Safe Trick-or-Treating. Trick-or-treat at your favorite local shops, enjoy live music and kids games. 5–8 pm. 101 S. Coast Hwy. 101, Encinitas. www.encinitas101.com
FREE Tierrasanta Trunk-or-Treat. Candy, food, games and more. 5:30–8:30 pm. Newbreak Church, 10791 Tierrasanta Blvd. www.newbreak.church
Yokai Masquerade. Arrive in costume and explore after-hours exhibit viewing and the yokai parade. 6–10 pm. $60. Japanese Friendship Garden, Balboa Park. www.niwa.org
FREE Halloween Carnival. Food vendors, game booths, prizes and more. Costumes encouraged. Ellen Browning Scripps Elementary School, 11778 Cypress Canyon Rd. Details: https://ebscripps.sandiegounified.org
Escondido Renaissance Fair. Jousting, live entertainment and more. Today, tomorrow & Nov. 7–8. $15–$35; under 5 free. Felicita County Park, 742 Clarence Ln. www.oldetymeproductions.com
saturday | 31
Find more events at sandiegofamily.com.
Halloween FREE Trick-or-Treating in La Mesa Village. Dress up in costume and trick-ortreat. 4–6 pm. La Mesa Blvd. between 4th St. & Acacia. www.lamesavillageassociation.org
Want us to spread the news? Email events@sandiegofamily.com and include the name of the event, a description, event address, date, time, cost and website. Submission does not guarantee publication. Deadline for the December issue: Nov. 1.
SKYPARK
n i t a n a P THE
Saturdays & Sundays this October Enjoy a picture-perfect fall escape at SkyPark. Bring the family for pumpkin picking and painting, seasonal food and beverages, live entertainment, outdoor adventures, and
plenty of opportunities to explore.
Wander the trails, take in the scenery of the San Bernardino Mountains, and make memories together surrounded by crisp autumn air and the rustic beauty of the forest.
SKYPARKSANTASVILLAGE.COM
Pumpkin Station! ALL ABOARD FOR FALL FAMILY FUN! A San Diego Family Tradition since 1999
Free Admission & Parking
Giant slides, rides, petting zoo and thousands of pumpkins to choose from! Rancho Bernardo Farm – 13421 Highland Valley Rd., Escondido 92128 Del Mar – 15555 Jimmy Durante Blvd., Del Mar 92014 Plaza Bonita – 3030 Plaza Bonita Rd., National City 91950 Bonita Pumpkin Farm – 5354 Sweetwater Rd., Bonita 91902
Open Daily Through October 31 Plan your visit today at PumpkinStation.com