by Berkeley, California — Halloween 2026 brings opportunities for costume celebrations, neighborhood trick-or-treating, spooky attractions and autumn activities to Berkeley. With Halloween falling on Saturday, October 31, families and visitors can plan a weekend filled with seasonal entertainment, community gatherings and activities for children.
Known for its lively neighborhoods, arts scene and community festivals, Berkeley offers a welcoming setting for Halloween celebrations. From family-friendly outings to evening events for adults, there are several ways to enjoy the spooky season in the East Bay.
1. Halloween Hootenanny in Downtown Berkeley
One of Berkeley’s major Halloween celebrations is the annual Halloween Hootenanny, a free community event featuring music, costumes and family-friendly entertainment.
The 2026 celebration is scheduled for Friday, October 30, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Downtown Berkeley BART Plaza, 2170 Shattuck Avenue.
Visitors can enjoy live music, local vendors, festive activities and Halloween surprises. The event also features a costume contest with prizes for children, adults, families and pets.
The celebration welcomes all ages, making it a good choice for families and residents looking for an afternoon of Halloween entertainment.
2. Halloween Festival and Trick-or-Treating on Fourth Street
Fourth Street is hosting one of Berkeley’s popular family Halloween celebrations on Saturday, October 31, from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.
The free event invites costumed children to visit more than 80 participating merchant shops for Halloween treats. Families can also enjoy a street festival featuring bubble shows, magic performances, face painting, art activities and live music.
Costumed characters will be present for photographs and entertainment, while children can participate in creative activities throughout the afternoon.
The celebration takes place along Fourth Street between University Avenue and Virginia Street, making it an option for families who want to combine trick-or-treating with a community festival.
3. Halloween Parade and Costume Contest at San Pablo Park
Children in transitional kindergarten through fifth grade can participate in Berkeley’s Halloween Parade and Costume Contest on Friday, October 30, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
The free community event begins at Frances Albrier Community Center at San Pablo Park, located at 2800 Park Street.
Children can dress in their favorite Halloween costumes and join a parade around the park, accompanied by city staff and Berkeley Police. A costume competition follows, with categories including Most Creative, Ugliest and Scariest.
Winners from each category will receive certificates and goodie bags. The event provides an opportunity for younger residents to show off their costumes and enjoy Halloween activities in a community setting.
4. Halloween Howl Dog Parade and Costume Contest
Halloween celebrations in Berkeley are not limited to children. Dog owners can bring their pets to the Halloween Howl Dog Parade and Costume Contest on Saturday, October 31, from 10 a.m. to noon.
The event takes place at James Kenney Park, 1720 Eighth Street.
Dogs and their owners can participate in a costume parade before the competition recognizes creative outfits. Planned categories include Scariest, Cutest, Most Creative and Best Doggie-Owner Duo.
The participation fee is $5. Dogs must remain on a leash and have current rabies vaccinations. Owners should also make sure their pets are comfortable around other animals and people.
5. Halloween at Berkeley Farmers Markets
Berkeley’s farmers markets are adding seasonal activities to the city’s Halloween celebrations.
The 2026 Halloween programming includes activities on October 27, 29 and 31, with participating market vendors decorating their booths and joining Halloween-themed celebrations.
Visitors can expect activities such as trick-or-treating, vendor decoration contests, tarot readings and seasonal shopping. Families can also browse pumpkins, fresh produce and artisan products while enjoying the festive atmosphere.
The Saturday, October 31, market activities provide another opportunity to enjoy Halloween during the day.
6. Scream Queens and Creeps Halloween Party at Tupper & Reed
Adults looking for Halloween-night entertainment can consider Scream Queens and Creeps at Tupper & Reed.
The Halloween party is scheduled for Saturday, October 31, from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m., with DJ entertainment continuing later into the night.
The historic venue will feature Halloween decorations, themed cocktails and music across both floors. A costume competition is planned around midnight, with categories including Scariest, Most Creative and Best Group.
The event is designed for adults who want to celebrate Halloween with music, costumes and nightlife. Visitors should check the venue’s age restrictions and ticket arrangements before attending.
7. Haunted Ghost Tours Around Berkeley
Visitors interested in local history and spooky stories can explore Berkeley’s haunted ghost tours during the Halloween season.
These guided evening walks introduce participants to mysterious stories, local legends and unusual accounts associated with the city’s historic locations.
The 2026 tour schedule includes October 30, with an advertised starting time of 7:30 p.m. The meeting location is listed at 2630 Bancroft Way.
Ghost tours offer a different kind of Halloween experience for adults, couples and older visitors who enjoy supernatural storytelling and exploring historic neighborhoods after dark.
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8. Rocky Horror Picture Show at The UC Theatre
Movie and live-performance fans can celebrate Halloween night at The UC Theatre with a special presentation of The Rocky Horror Picture Show.
The event is scheduled for Saturday, October 31, at 8 p.m., with doors opening at 7 p.m. The performance features a live cast and audience participation, creating an interactive entertainment experience.
Located at 2036 University Avenue, The UC Theatre offers an alternative to traditional trick-or-treating and haunted attractions.
Which Halloween event in Berkeley are you planning to attend this year? Share your favorite activities and Halloween traditions in the comments.
