by As Halloween approaches, families across Merced County are gearing up for a festive season full of pumpkins, costumes, movie nights, and community celebrations. From pumpkin patches bursting with fall colors to fun-filled trunk-or-treat nights, there are plenty of exciting ways to enjoy autumn this year. Here’s a full guide to all the spooky and family-friendly events happening throughout the county.
Hunter Farms Pumpkin Patch – Atwater
- Dates: Saturday, September 27th – Sunday, November 2nd
- Address: 2985 N. Southern Pacific Avenue, Atwater
Hunter Farms has been creating fall memories since 2013 and continues to grow as one of the most loved pumpkin patches in Merced County. Families can explore more than 70 unique pumpkin and gourd varieties along with 15 types of chrysanthemums. The farm also includes exciting attractions such as Billykens’ Blasters, hayrides, a challenging corn maze, The Corn Chute, a Dino Dig zone, mini tractor rides, and the fun Barnyard Bounce.
Children and adults alike can enjoy interactive activities throughout their visit. A new highlight this year is the Pig Derby, bringing cheerful entertainment to visitors. Tickets are available at the gate, while season passes can be purchased online. Guests are encouraged to check the operating schedule for attraction hours and special event days.
Vista Ranch Pumpkin Patch – Merced
- Dates: Thursday, October 2nd – Friday, October 31st, 9 AM – 6 PM
- Address: 7326 East HWY 140, Merced, CA
Vista Ranch offers a beautiful fall atmosphere with a wide selection of pumpkins, squash, gourds, and harvest décor perfect for home decorating. Families can take photos at multiple picturesque spots around the ranch. Outdoor dining is available every Saturday and Sunday from 11 AM to 4 PM, while the tasting room is open daily for food and beverages.
Weekend visits also include wood-fired pizza, making it a wonderful stop for autumn outings. The ranch encourages everyone to enjoy nature, be kind, and make joyful memories throughout the season.
Jenny Nicole’s Old School House Bakery Trunk or Treat – Merced
- Dates: Friday, October 24th, 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
- Address: 2649 Canal St., Merced
Families are invited for an evening of candy, costumes, and community fun. Kids in creative costumes can collect treats from decorated vehicle trunks while enjoying a friendly environment. The event is supported by La Sierra Care Center and Merced Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, ensuring a safe and festive Halloween celebration for all ages.
Hotel Mission De Oro Trick-or-Treat & Movie Night – Santa Nella
- Dates: Friday, October 31st, 6 PM
- Address: 13070 S Highway 33, Santa Nella, CA
Families can trick-or-treat in the hotel courtyard from 6 PM to 7 PM, followed by an outdoor movie screening of Hotel Transylvania at 7:15 PM. Though the event is free, snacks and beverages will be available for purchase. Remember to bring cozy blankets or chairs for a perfect movie-under-the-stars experience.
Gustine Trunk or Treat – Downtown Gustine
- Dates: Friday, October 31st, 6 PM – 8 PM
- Address: Downtown Gustine
Now in its 11th year, this Trunk-or-Treat celebration includes playful games, BOO-ard game challenges, food vendors, and participation from local businesses. Kids can walk from car to car gathering lots of candy while staying safe and having fun in the heart of the community.
Livingston United Methodist Church Trunk or Treat
- Dates: Saturday, October 18th, 4 PM – 7 PM
- Address: Livingston United Methodist Church
Families are invited to enjoy an evening of costumed fun as kids collect candy from colorfully decorated cars. It’s a simple and cheerful way for younger Halloween lovers to celebrate.
Atwater Pumpkin Decorating Contest
- Dates: Friday, October 10th, 6 PM – 8 PM
- Address: Atwater Community Center
Children and teens aged 3–17 can showcase their creativity by decorating pumpkins in their own unique styles. Winners will be announced on October 17th. Participants can enjoy free hot cocoa sponsored by Dutch Bros Atwater and compete for prizes provided by Hunter Farms.
Atwater Halloween Movie Night – Bloss Grounds
- Dates: Friday, October 17th
- Address: Bloss Grounds, Atwater
Families can gather for an outdoor showing of the Halloween classic Hocus Pocus. Costumes are encouraged and guests are welcome to bring blankets and lawn chairs to relax under the evening sky and enjoy a festive fall movie night.
Conclusion
From thrilling pumpkin patches to community movie nights, Merced County has planned a full month of autumn enjoyment for all ages. Whether you’re carving pumpkins, watching Halloween classics, or strolling through a trunk-or-treat event, there’s something special happening every week. Residents are encouraged to take part in the festivities, support local organizers, and celebrate the spooky season safely and joyfully
