If you’re looking for festive things to do this October, the South Bay has you covered with fairs, festivals, pumpkin races, trunk-or-treating, and more. From Manhattan Beach to Palos Verdes, here’s your guide to the best local events this spooky season.
October 4–5: Manhattan Beach Hometown Fair
Location: Live Oak Park & Dorsey Field, Manhattan Beach
Kick off the season at the Manhattan Beach Hometown Fair. Doors open at 10am and festivities run all day, featuring live music, food, beer and wine gardens, carnival games, art booths, and plenty of fun for the whole family.
October 15: Trick-or-Treat Festival at The Point
Location: The Point on Pacific Coast Highway, El Segundo
Bring your little ones to a weekday morning trick-or-treat festival designed especially for toddlers and preschoolers. From 10am to noon, kids can meet costumed characters and collect treats before the bigger kids are out of school.
October 18–19: American Martyrs Parish Fair
Location: 700 15th St, Manhattan Beach
A community tradition since 1971, the American Martyrs Parish Fair is an all-day weekend celebration filled with rides, games, food booths, and entertainment. This annual favorite draws families from across the South Bay.
October 19: Manhattan Beach Pumpkin Race
Location: On the hill above Manhattan Beach Pier
Get ready for one of the most unique South Bay traditions—the Pumpkin Race. Families decorate and race pumpkins downhill against the stunning backdrop of the pier. The festival starts at 12pm and races kick off at 2pm.
October 25: Manhattan Heights Halloween Festival
Location: Manhattan Heights Park, 1600 Manhattan Beach Blvd
The 37th Annual Family Halloween Carnival runs from 1–5pm, featuring carnival games, crafts, costumes, and activities. It’s a safe and festive way to celebrate with kids of all ages.
October 29: Manhattan Beach Trunk-or-Treat
Location: 420 15th St, Manhattan Beach
From 6–8:30pm, the Manhattan Beach Police Department and Neighborhood Watch host their annual Trunk-or-Treat. Kids can collect candy while meeting local officers and checking out decorated cars.
Through November 2: Magic of the Jack-O-Lanterns
Location: South Coast Botanic Garden, Palos Verdes
On select nights from September 19 to November 2, explore the Magic of the Jack O’ Lanterns, a dazzling illuminated pumpkin trail featuring hundreds of hand-carved creations. Tickets must be purchased ahead of time. Evening entry times run from 6:30–9pm.
Whether you’re chasing pumpkin races at the pier, strolling through illuminated jack-o-lantern displays, or enjoying hometown parades and fairs, the South Bay has endless ways to celebrate fall. These events are family-friendly, community-focused, and uniquely tied to the coastal charm of Manhattan Beach and beyond.
