by Santa Ana, California — Halloween 2026 is bringing a mix of spooky attractions, pumpkin festivals, costume celebrations and family-friendly activities to Santa Ana.
From children’s activities at local attractions to neighborhood celebrations and cultural gatherings, there are several ways to enjoy the Halloween season across the city.
1. Santa Ana Police Department Trunk-or-Treat
The Santa Ana Police Department is hosting its annual Trunk-or-Treat celebration for families looking for a free Halloween activity. The event is scheduled for Thursday, October 22, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Civic Center Plaza, 60 Civic Center Plaza.
Children can wear costumes, collect candy and enjoy decorated police vehicles, Halloween music, characters and a photo booth. Community organizations are also expected to participate, making it an opportunity for families to celebrate with their neighbors.
2. Jerome Recreation Center Spooktacular
Families can enjoy an afternoon of Halloween entertainment at the Jerome Recreation Center Spooktacular on Saturday, October 24, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
The free community event is planned to include a haunted house, costume contest, performances and resource booths. It offers a welcoming environment for children and adults who want to enjoy Halloween activities without paying admission.
Visitors can dress up, participate in the festivities and explore the activities available at the recreation center.
3. Boo at the Santa Ana Zoo
Boo at the Santa Ana Zoo is a seasonal Halloween attraction featuring decorations, candy stations and activities for children. The 2026 event is scheduled for October 24 and 25, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
The family-friendly celebration includes trick-or-treating, illuminated displays, nocturnal animal encounters and a scavenger hunt. Visitors can also enjoy the zoo’s rides, although additional ride tickets are required.
The listed admission is $25 for adults, $20 for children ages 3–12, and $10 for zoo members and Santa Ana residents. Children aged two and younger enter free. Tickets are valid for one selected evening, and advance purchase is recommended.
4. Pumpkin Palooza at Discovery Cube Orange County
Discovery Cube Orange County is bringing Halloween-themed science and family entertainment to Santa Ana with Pumpkin Palooza.
The seasonal event runs on selected weekends in October, including October 31 and November 1, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Activities include an interactive pumpkin maze, science demonstrations, Halloween games, bumper cars, pumpkin-launching experiments and a themed dance party.
Children can explore hands-on activities while enjoying seasonal decorations and trick-or-treat stations. The event requires a separate ticket in addition to general museum admission, so families should plan their visit accordingly.
5. The Pumpkin Factory at MainPlace Mall
The Pumpkin Factory at MainPlace Mall offers another seasonal outing for families who want to enjoy pumpkin-themed entertainment before Halloween.
The attraction is scheduled to run through November 1, 2026, at 2800 North Main Street. Visitors can browse pumpkins, enjoy carnival rides and games, and explore seasonal decorations.
Additional attractions include pony rides and a food area, making it possible to spend several hours enjoying the autumn atmosphere. Admission arrangements vary by day, with free entry listed on Wednesdays and Thursdays and paid admission on selected weekend days.
Families should confirm operating hours before visiting, particularly if they plan to attend on Halloween itself.
6. The Gershon Dungeon Haunted Display
Visitors who enjoy haunted attractions can look for The Gershon Dungeon, a neighborhood Halloween display known for elaborate decorations and spooky scenes.
The 2026 display is scheduled for October 23–25, from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. A special no-monster walkthrough is listed from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., giving younger visitors an opportunity to explore the display with fewer scares.
This type of attraction can appeal to families, Halloween enthusiasts and visitors interested in creative home decorations. Because it is a residential display, guests should respect the surrounding neighborhood and follow any instructions provided by organizers.
Halloween Events in Greenville, SC 2026: Boo in the Zoo, Trick-or-Treating and Haunted Attractions
7. Classic Cars Trunk-or-Treat
Car enthusiasts and families can combine Halloween fun with a classic-car display at the Memorial Park Neighborhood Association’s Trunk-or-Treat.
The event is scheduled for Friday, October 30, from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., at 910 West Anahurst Place.
Visitors can see decorated vehicles, collect treats and enjoy a neighborhood Halloween atmosphere. The event provides an alternative to traditional door-to-door trick-or-treating and may appeal to children who enjoy colorful cars and costumes.
Families should check local announcements for any changes to the schedule or participation arrangements.
8. Día de los Muertos: Magic of the Altars
Santa Ana’s Halloween season also overlaps with Día de los Muertos, a Mexican tradition honoring deceased loved ones through altars, flowers, photographs and family remembrance.
The Magic of the Altars celebration is scheduled for Friday, October 30, from 4 p.m., at the Roosevelt Walker Community Center.
Which Halloween event in Santa Ana would you most like to attend? Share your favorite seasonal activities and Halloween plans in the comments.
