by Oakland, California — Halloween 2026 offers families, local residents and visitors opportunities to enjoy costume celebrations, spooky attractions and autumn activities across Oakland and the East Bay. With Halloween falling on Saturday, October 31, the city is a good place to look for neighborhood trick-or-treating, pumpkin-themed events, haunted experiences and community celebrations.
1. BART Police Trunk-or-Treat
Families can kick off their Halloween celebrations at the BART Police Trunk-or-Treat event on Thursday, October 29, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at MacArthur BART Station Plaza, 555 40th Street.
The free community event features decorated police vehicles, candy giveaways, games and other activities for children aged 12 and under accompanied by an adult. Families who prefer travelling by public transportation may find the station location convenient.
2. Trick-or-Treat in Oakland Chinatown
Oakland Chinatown will host a community trick-or-treat celebration on Friday, October 30, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
The event involves participating businesses and organizations across the neighborhood, giving children an opportunity to collect treats while exploring local shops. Activities at the Oakland Asian Cultural Center include games, a community resource fair and additional family entertainment.
A costume contest is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. The event offers a festive way to experience Oakland’s Chinatown while celebrating Halloween with friends and family.
3. Trunk-or-Treat at the Lake
Another family-friendly option is Trunk-or-Treat at the Lake, scheduled for Friday, October 30, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Edoff Memorial Bandstand near Lake Merritt.
Organized by Oakland Parks, Recreation and Youth Development, the event features decorated vehicle trunks, candy, music, games and seasonal activities.
The celebration is particularly suitable for toddlers, preschoolers and families with younger children, although visitors of all ages are welcome. Its daytime schedule also provides an alternative for parents who want to avoid late-night Halloween activities.
4. Driveway Follies Halloween Marionette Show
Oakland’s Glenview neighborhood offers a distinctive Halloween tradition with the Driveway Follies Halloween Marionette Show.
Performances are scheduled for October 30 and 31, beginning at dusk, at 3854 Greenwood Avenue. The outdoor show features Halloween-themed marionette performances, combining puppetry, storytelling and creative stage effects.
The event is free, with donations welcome. Seating is limited, so arriving early may help visitors find a comfortable viewing spot. Because performances take place outdoors, guests should dress for cool evening weather.
5. Halloween Jam: Mad Magic at Children’s Fairyland
Children’s Fairyland is hosting Halloween Jam: Mad Magic on Saturday, October 31, from noon to 7 p.m.
The family-oriented celebration features trick-or-treat stations, live performers, science-themed activities, crafts, games and a Halloween fun house. Children can explore the storybook-themed park in costume while enjoying entertainment throughout the day.
Special-event admission applies, and families should confirm ticket availability and pricing before visiting.
6. Spooky Science at Chabot Space & Science Center
For children who enjoy science and discovery, Chabot Space & Science Center offers Spooky Science on Saturday, October 31, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The program combines Halloween fun with educational activities, including science demonstrations, spooky crafts, trick-or-treating and a pumpkin engineering challenge.
A pumpkin drop is scheduled for 1:30 p.m., followed by a presentation about the search for dark matter at 2:30 p.m. The event is suitable for families seeking an educational alternative to traditional haunted attractions. General museum admission is required.
7. Things That Creep Halloween Party
Oakland United Beerworks will host the Things That Creep Halloween Party on Saturday, October 31, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Halloween Events in Lancaster, PA 2026: Trick-or-Treating, Haunted Attractions and Fall Festivals
The free, all-ages celebration includes live animals, a photo booth, a raffle, a food truck and candy for children. Costumes are encouraged, making it a good opportunity for families to enjoy Halloween together.
The event also supports hands-on science education for third-grade classrooms in Oakland Unified School District, adding a community-focused element to the festivities.
8. Halloween Activities at Oakland Public Library
Oakland Public Library branches are offering additional Halloween activities for children and families on October 31.
The Main Library at 125 14th Street is scheduled to host a Halloween parade and trick-or-treating from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Children can show off their costumes, collect treats and participate in a ghost-themed craft activity.
Which Halloween event in Oakland are you planning to attend this year? Share your favorite activities and Halloween traditions in the comments.
