October in California has a bit of an identity crisis in the best possible way. You can spend one weekend listening to metal in Sacramento, the next watching jets fly over the Pacific, and another surrounded by enormous pumpkins on the coast. The October events in California calendar for 2026 has plenty of reasons to turn an ordinary weekend into a road trip. Families can take advantage of monthlong offers in San Diego, music fans have festivals in Sacramento and Joshua Tree, and fall lovers can finish the month with a classic pumpkin-filled day in Half Moon Bay. Here are eight California events worth putting on your October calendar, along with the dates, locations, and planning details you’ll want before heading out. October may be one of the smartest months for families to plan a San Diego getaway. Kids Free San Diego runs throughout the month, bringing together more than 100 special offers from participating attractions, museums, hotels, restaurants, and other businesses across the county. The offers are not identical, so this is one event where reading the fine print can actually save you money.
Pumpkin Festival California 2026: 7 Best Fall Festivals and Pumpkin Patches Near Los Angeles
Looking for the best pumpkin festival California has to offer in 2026? You're in luck. Southern California might not deliver the crisp autumn weather you see in Hallmark movies, but when it comes to pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and Halloween celebrations, we know how to fall right. And who needs sweater weather when you can pick pumpkins under the California sunshine?
From tractor rides and pig races in Moorpark to glowing jack-o'-lantern trails in Calabasas, there's no shortage of ways to celebrate the season. You can spend a day getting lost in a corn maze, take the kids on a pumpkin-picking adventure, or escape to Temecula for a little pumpkin-and-wine-country combination. Because, let's face it, some fall outings deserve a glass of wine at the end. We've rounded up seven fall festivals and pumpkin patches worth visiting in 2026. Whether you're searching for a fall festival near me, planning a family weekend, or organizing a group getaway, this guide covers the dates, activities, ticket details, and travel tips you need.
The Best Pumpkin Festivals in California for 2026 at a Glance
Not all pumpkin patches are created equal. Some are all about muddy boots and farm animals, while others swap the hay bales for elaborate light displays and Halloween magic. Here's a quick look at seven of the best pumpkin patches and fall festivals in Southern California.
Event | City | 2026 dates | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
Peltzer Pumpkin Farm | Temecula | Sep 19–Oct 31 | Families and wine country |
Underwood Family Farms | Moorpark | Sep 26–Oct 31 | Full-day farm adventures |
Cal Poly Pomona PumpkinFest | Pomona | Weekends, Oct 10–31 | Corn mazes and themed weekends |
Calabasas Pumpkin Festival | Calabasas | Oct 18 | Community celebration |
Night of the Jack | Calabasas | Check official calendar | Date nights and glowing pumpkins |
Carved at Descanso Gardens | La Cañada Flintridge | Oct 2–Nov 1 | Evening pumpkin art |
Irvine Park Railroad Pumpkin Patch | Orange | Check official calendar | Families with young children |
Dates reflect the supplied 2026 event schedule. Check each event's official website before purchasing tickets or traveling, especially for events without confirmed dates.
Peltzer Pumpkin Farm in Temecula: A Pumpkin Patch in Wine Country
September 19–October 31, 2026 | Temecula, California
Pumpkins for the kids, wine for the grown-ups. Now that's what we call a well-balanced fall outing. Located in Temecula's beautiful wine country, Peltzer Pumpkin Farm combines old-fashioned farm fun with the chance to explore one of Southern California's favorite wine destinations. And there's plenty to do before anyone even thinks about a wine tasting. The farm offers train rides, a petting farm, pony rides, carnival games, miniature John Deere carts, gem panning, and pig races. Watching tiny pigs sprint toward the finish line might sound ridiculous, but that's half the fun. You'll also find pumpkins to bring home, seasonal treats, and plenty of places to snap those obligatory fall family photos.
Tickets and what to expect
Farm admission is $2 per person Monday through Thursday and $4 Friday through Sunday. Children under two enter free with a paying adult. Attractions are charged separately. For example, train rides cost $6, petting farm entry is $4, and carnival games cost $3 per game. Pig races and the Tractor Garden are free.
Make it a Temecula wine country day
One of the best reasons to visit Peltzer is its location. After exploring the pumpkin farm, adults can visit nearby Peltzer Winery for a completely different taste of fall. It's an easy way to turn a pumpkin patch outing into a longer day trip, especially for a group of friends or several families traveling together. Keep in mind that winery purchases are separate from pumpkin farm admission. Peltzer Winery is also restricted to guests 21 and older after 6 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Group travel tip: Temecula is the farthest destination on our list, so it's worth making a full day of it. Arrange transportation in advance, especially if the adults plan to enjoy wine tastings. Official websites are Peltzer Pumpkin Farm and Peltzer Winery.
Underwood Family Farms Pumpkin Patch in Moorpark: A Full Farm Festival Day
September 26–October 31, 2026 | Moorpark, California
If your ideal fall day involves pumpkins, farm animals, tractor rides, and the possibility of getting completely lost in a corn maze, Underwood Family Farms belongs at the top of your list. Its annual Fall Harvest Festival transforms the Moorpark farm into a giant autumn playground. And this isn't the kind of pumpkin patch where you pick a pumpkin, take two pictures, and head home 20 minutes later. There's enough here to keep your group entertained for hours. You can wander through the corn maze, ride a tractor-drawn wagon, explore the animal center, climb hay pyramids, and check out the enormous pumpkin displays. On weekends, the farm adds live music, animal shows, demonstrations, and pig races. The 2026 festival also features themed weekends, including Antique Tractor Weekend on October 10–11, Wild West Weekend on October 17–18, and All About Pumpkins Weekend on October 24–25.
Tickets and what to expect
The festival runs daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Weekday admission is $16 per person, purchased at the gate. Weekend tickets must be purchased online and generally cost 30–34 in advance, depending on the date, with higher prices for limited same-day admission. General admission includes the corn maze, tractor-drawn wagon rides, pumpkin patch access, animal center, and many farm attractions. Pumpkins, harvested produce, certain rides, animal feeding, and some games cost extra. Children under two and parking are free.
Weekday or weekend: Which is better?
That depends on what you're after. Weekdays are less expensive and a good choice if you'd rather spend more time exploring and less time standing in lines. Weekends bring the full festival atmosphere, with additional performances and themed entertainment. Group travel tip: Underwood is one of the best pumpkin patches in Ventura County for family reunions, school-age children, and group outings. Give yourselves several hours rather than trying to squeeze everything into a quick stop.
Cal Poly Pomona Pumpkin Fest: Corn Mazes and Themed Weekends
October 10–31, 2026 | Weekends only | Pomona, California
Ever wanted to get lost in a corn maze and call it a successful weekend? Cal Poly Pomona has you covered. The annual PumpkinFest at Kellogg Ranch is one of the most entertaining fall activities in Pomona, bringing together pumpkins, farm adventures, and hands-on learning. And yes, there's a real chance someone in your group will confidently announce they know the way out of the maze. They probably don't. The festival includes corn mazes, a sunflower maze, hay wagon rides, a petting farm, a cow train, and the Jr. Farmers Discovery Zone. Visitors can also explore farm demonstrations and student-led activities. What makes PumpkinFest especially interesting is its themed weekend program. Each weekend offers something a little different.
Dates | Theme | Perfect for |
|---|---|---|
Oct 10–11 | Pumpkinzania | Classic pumpkin lovers and families |
Oct 17–18 | Insect Festival | Curious kids and science enthusiasts |
Oct 24–25 | Indigenous Agriculture Weekend | Groups interested in culture and farming |
Oct 31 | Halloween at PumpkinFest | Families celebrating Halloween |
Tickets and what to expect
PumpkinFest operates Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Admission is required to enter the pumpkin patch. Tickets are available online or at the gate, subject to capacity, and the university warns that popular dates often sell out. General admission includes the corn mazes, hay wagon ride, petting farm entry, cow train, and other listed attractions. Pumpkins and petting farm feed cost extra. Parking is free on festival weekends. Check the official ticket page for the price of your selected date. Group travel tip: PumpkinFest works especially well for families with older children, student groups, and friends who want something more interactive than a traditional pumpkin patch. Pick your themed weekend first, then arrange tickets and transportation.
Calabasas Pumpkin Festival: A One-Day Community Celebration
October 18, 2026 | 10 a.m.–5 p.m. | Calabasas, California
Some pumpkin festivals go big with sprawling farms and endless cornfields. Others bring the entire community together for one gloriously pumpkin-filled day. The Calabasas Pumpkin Festival falls into the second category. Held at Juan Bautista de Anza Park, this annual celebration packs entertainment, games, festive food, and family activities into a single Sunday. Expect live music, character encounters, inflatable rides, contests, games, car displays, and even bug and reptile shows. Because apparently, pumpkins and reptiles make a perfectly reasonable California combination. It's a lively choice for families who want a classic fall festival without committing an entire weekend to it.
Tickets, hours, and parking
The festival takes place Sunday, October 18, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Advance tickets cost $15 per person, plus processing fees, through October 17. Event-day admission is $20, with ticket sales ending at 4:30 p.m. Children under 24 months enter free. Admission includes unlimited inflatable rides, live entertainment, character encounters, and the listed festival games and activities. Free parking is available in designated lots along Lost Hills Road and Agoura Road, with complimentary shuttles to the festival entrance. Shuttles operate from 9:45 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Make a full weekend of Calabasas
If you're planning a weekend around Halloween activities, consider pairing the daytime festival with Night of the Jack, another popular seasonal attraction in Calabasas. One gives you the traditional community festival experience. The other brings glowing pumpkins and Halloween lights after dark. Group travel tip: The festival is a good choice for families traveling together or friends looking for an easy Sunday outing. Coordinate your arrival and pickup around the festival's closing time and designated access areas.
Night of the Jack in Calabasas: An Immersive Halloween Experience
September 25–November 1, 2026 | Select nights | Calabasas, California
Who says pumpkin patches are just for kids? If you're looking for Halloween magic with a little more atmosphere and a lot less hay, Night of the Jack might be your perfect fall night out. Held at King Gillette Ranch in Calabasas, this immersive Halloween experience transforms the outdoors into a glowing world of jack-o'-lanterns, creative light installations, and larger-than-life displays.
The highlight is a one-mile walking trail filled with illuminated pumpkins, themed environments, and plenty of photo opportunities. And once you've finished exploring, the evening doesn't have to end. The event also features food trucks, seasonal drinks, and a themed bar called the Spookeasy. It's an excellent choice for couples looking for pumpkin patch date ideas, friends planning a Halloween outing, or groups who want something a little different from the usual haunted house experience.
Tickets, hours, and parking
The official website advertises a September 25–November 1 season, with admission available on selected nights. Check the booking calendar for your preferred date and current ticket prices.Event grounds operate from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m., while the trail opens at 6 p.m. and closes at 9:15 p.m. Tickets must be purchased in advance, and parking passes are also sold online rather than onsite. For groups, the organizer advertises discounts starting at four guests, with larger discounts for bigger parties purchasing together.
Visitors looking for an elaborate Halloween light show will likely enjoy the visual spectacle, although anyone expecting a traditional pumpkin-picking farm should choose a different event. That's the important distinction when comparing this experience with ordinary pumpkin patches. Group travel tip: If you're arranging a group pickup, agree on a meeting location before entering the trail. Allow time for photos, food, and the walk itself, and confirm where your transportation can legally collect passengers at the end of the evening.
Carved at Descanso Gardens: Pumpkin Art After Dark
October 2–November 1, 2026 | La Cañada Flintridge, California Imagine walking through a beautiful botanical garden after sunset, surrounded by glowing pumpkins, mysterious lights, and sculptures that look like they've wandered straight out of a Halloween fairy tale. That's the kind of evening waiting for you at Carved at Descanso Gardens. Located near Pasadena, Descanso Gardens trades the traditional pumpkin patch experience for something more artistic. You'll find giant hand-carved pumpkins, illuminated railroad displays, whimsical wood spirits, and creative installations throughout the gardens.
It's festive without needing to be frightening, making it a lovely option for couples, families, and groups who appreciate art and outdoor experiences. And unlike a haunted house, the goal isn't to scream your way to the exit. Unless, of course, you see the ticket total for your entire group.
Tickets and what to expect
Carved runs from October 2 through November 1, with timed admission. Ticket prices vary by date and membership status:
Ticket type | Non-members | Members |
|---|---|---|
Adults | $29–52 | $22–45 |
Children ages 2–12 | $19–37 | $12–30 |
Children under 2 | Free | Free |
Parking in the Descanso Gardens lots is free, subject to availability. Valet parking costs $10 per vehicle and is complimentary for members. Seasonal food and drinks are also available, and visitors can arrange a separate dinner at Farmhouse to make a full evening of the experience.
Who should visit?
Carved is especially appealing if you're looking for a pumpkin-themed evening that feels a little more relaxed and atmospheric. It's a wonderful alternative to crowded carnival-style festivals and one of the more distinctive Halloween outings around Pasadena. Group travel tip: Book the same entry window for everyone. If you're combining dinner and Carved, plan enough time between reservations so the evening feels like a celebration rather than a race against the clock.
Irvine Park Railroad Pumpkin Patch: An Orange County Option
September 12–November 1, 2026 | Orange, California
If your fall plans involve little kids, big pumpkins, and a train ride that might become the highlight of their entire month, head to Irvine Park Railroad. Located inside Irvine Regional Park in Orange, this popular pumpkin patch offers a family-friendly combination of outdoor activities, games, rides, and seasonal fun.
It's the kind of place where children can spend an unreasonable amount of time deciding which pumpkin is the one, only to change their minds three times before checkout. Beyond pumpkin picking, families can enjoy train rides, wagon rides, pumpkin decorating, and carnival-style activities. The park setting also gives visitors a chance to enjoy the outdoors beyond the pumpkin patch itself.For families exploring Halloween events in Orange County, it's an especially appealing option for younger children.
Tickets, reservations, and parking
The 2026 pumpkin patch runs September 12 through November 1. Weekday hours are generally 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., while weekends operate from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., with shorter hours on October 31 and November 1. Reservations are required on selected weekends from September 26 through October 25. These cost approximately 16–22 per person and include entry to the pumpkin patch plus a train or wagon ride. Additional activity tickets cost $8 each, or $100 for a book of 15.
Irvine Regional Park also charges a vehicle-entry fee:
Weekdays: $3 per vehicle
Weekends: $5 per vehicle
Holidays: $7 per vehicle
Children 12 months and younger do not require a reservation. Group travel tip: If several families are visiting together, reserve the same ride window where required. For larger vehicles, confirm park access and any applicable parking arrangements before arriving.
Which Pumpkin Festival in California Fits Your Group?
Seven festivals, hundreds of pumpkins, and only so many October weekends. So which one should you choose? It really comes down to who you're bringing and what kind of fall adventure you're hoping to have. For a full day of farm activities, Underwood Family Farms and Cal Poly Pomona PumpkinFest are hard to beat. Both offer plenty to keep groups busy, from corn mazes to wagon rides.
If you're traveling with younger children, Irvine Park Railroad is a great choice, while the Calabasas Pumpkin Festival offers a lively community celebration without requiring a long trip. Looking for something more romantic or atmospheric? Night of the Jack and Carved at Descanso Gardens deliver the glowing pumpkins, nighttime scenery, and Halloween charm. And if your idea of a perfect fall outing involves pumpkins followed by a wine tasting, Temecula is calling.
Make it a group trip worth remembering
Some of the best fall activities near Los Angeles aren't actually in Los Angeles. And when you're organizing a trip for several friends or families, transportation can become the least exciting part of the plan.Multiple cars, different arrival times, parking fees, and that one friend who somehow always ends up at the wrong entrance? We've all been there. For longer day trips from Los Angeles, a passenger van can make the outing much easier to organize.
As an option groups can explore Sprinter van rental Los Angeles options for their fall outings, whether that's a family pumpkin patch birthday party, a friends' trip to Temecula, or a Halloween celebration in Calabasas. Before booking, consider your passenger count, pickup location, event tickets, possible extra stops, and planned return time. Confirm the rental's driver arrangements and whether the vehicle can access your chosen event's parking and pickup areas.
That way, you can spend more time enjoying the festival and less time figuring out who parked where. After all, October only comes once a year. You might as well make the most of it. Editorial note: Ticket prices and event schedules should be verified on organizer websites before publication, as they may change. TourVanGo's rental terms, vehicle capacity, and driver arrangements should also be confirmed before publishing transportation-specific claims.
Read More Interesting Entries
Fall in California does not necessarily mean sweaters, crunchy leaves, and dramatically holding a pumpkin-spice latte with both hands. In some parts of the state, September still feels suspiciously like summer. What fall does bring is an excellent festival calendar, with California events 2026 ranging from wine celebrations to major music and cultural weekends. The best California fall events cover just about every possible group personality: wine lovers, jazz fans, film buffs, serious food people, and anyone willing to celebrate an avocado for an entire weekend. From September through November, these five California festivals 2026 give groups plenty of reasons to get out of the group chat and actually go somewhere. Here is what to know about dates, tickets, parking, transportation, and the experiences worth showing up for.