Best Halloween Events & Activities in San Francisco This 2025

San Francisco does Halloween differently. From costumed parades to spooky museum nights, the city mixes quirky traditions with big parties. If you’re looking for plans this October, here are some of the best events and activities happening in 2025.

Halloween Activities and Events in San Francisco

San Francisco Halloween Pub Crawl

One of the biggest bar crawls of the year, drawing thousands in costume across Polk Street, North Beach, and SoMa. Expect drink specials, DJs, and packed dance floors.

Date: Oct 25–26 & Oct 31, 2025
Location: Multiple bars across the city
Price: $12–$35 (advance tickets)

Halloween Haunt at California Academy of Sciences

NightLife at the Academy gets a spooky twist with themed cocktails, live DJs, and access to the rainforest dome and aquarium.

Date: Oct 30, 2025
Location: Golden Gate Park
Price: ~$30
Insider Tip: Reddit threads call it one of the “classier” Halloween parties in SF.

Candlelight Concerts: Haunted Themes

String quartets perform eerie classics in candlelit venues like Grace Cathedral or the Great Star Theater.

Date: Multiple nights in October 2025
Location: Various venues
Price: $40–$60
Review Highlight: Guests say the atmosphere is “romantic and just spooky enough.”

The Ghost Walk at Haunted Haight

A guided walking tour that mixes true crime, ghost stories, and Victorian architecture.

Date: Evenings throughout October
Location: Haight-Ashbury
Price: $25
Reddit Note: Locals recommend it for history buffs who want more than jump scares.

Halloween at the Exploratorium

The museum adds haunted science demos, illusions, and special lighting to its After Dark series.

Date: Oct 31, 2025
Location: Pier 15
Price: ~$25
Review Note: Visitors on Google Reviews call it “playful and nerdy” — a lighter take on Halloween.

Howl-O-Ween Dog Parade at Duboce Park

Hundreds of costumed pups and their owners strut for prizes. Great for couples, families, or anyone who just wants a lighter Halloween outing.

Date: Oct 26, 2025
Location: Duboce Park
Price: Free
Tip: Arrive early — the park fills fast.

Day of the Dead Festival of Altars

Though not Halloween, it overlaps the season. On Nov 2, Potrero Del Sol Park hosts altars, music, and remembrance ceremonies.

Location: Potrero Del Sol Park
Price: Free
Community Insight: Attendees describe it as “moving, spiritual, and grounded in tradition.”

Halloween on Polk Street

Polk Street bars and clubs throw some of the city’s busiest Halloween parties. Expect DJs, costumes, and crowds spilling onto the sidewalks.

Date: Oct 31, 2025
Location: Polk Street
Price: Varies by venue
Reddit Note: Known for being rowdy — best for those who want the party vibe.

Winchester Mystery House

An hour south in San Jose, this historic mansion offers candlelit tours, escape rooms, and seasonal haunts.

Date: All October 2025
Location: San Jose
Price: $40–$55
Review Note: Visitors say the “maze-like halls” make it a perfect fall road trip.

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Jaspreet Singh