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👻 Why Halloween in San Francisco in 2025 Will Be Unforgettable
San Francisco knows how to celebrate, and Halloween in San Francisco in 2025 is gearing up to be one of the most thrilling and diverse Halloween seasons in the country. From haunted mansions and family-friendly parades to iconic costume parties and underground clubs, the City by the Bay transforms into a festive playground for ghosts, ghouls, and goblins of all ages.
Whether you’re visiting from out of town or a local looking for new thrills, San Francisco offers an unforgettable mix of history, horror, and high-energy celebration.
🏰 Best Halloween Events in San Francisco in 2025
Here are the most anticipated events you can’t miss:
🎭 1. Ghost Ship Halloween Party
Held in a secret warehouse location, this legendary electronic music and art party is known for its immersive haunted sets and surreal installations.
🧛 2. The San Francisco Vampire Ball
A glamorous and gothic night of costumes, live music, and dancing at the Regency Ballroom. Think masquerade meets vampire elegance.
🎃 3. Boo at the Zoo (San Francisco Zoo)
Perfect for families! This weekend event offers trick-or-treat stations, pumpkin patches, animal enrichment, and Halloween-themed exhibits.
👻 4. Haunted Hotel at Queen Anne
Book a room or just take the haunted tour of this historic Victorian hotel, rumored to be one of the most haunted spots in the city.
🎶 5. The Castro Halloween Block Party
Once an unofficial celebration, the Castro’s Halloween festivities now include safe, organized fun: live DJs, costume contests, and wild fashion.
🧒 Family-Friendly Halloween in San Francisco in 2025
Looking for fun the kids will love? San Francisco has plenty of safe and exciting options:
- Ghirardelli Square Pumpkin Fest – Pumpkin carving, face painting, crafts, and live music.
- Noe Valley Halloween Walk – A charming neighborhood event with decorated houses and generous candy stations.
- Exploratorium’s Spooky Science Weekend – Interactive exhibits that blend science with spooky fun.
- Pier 39 Halloween Bash – Trick-or-treating at shops, live performances, and waterfront views.
🕯️ Haunted Places to Explore During Halloween in San Francisco in 2025
San Francisco has a storied past, and many locations are said to be haunted:
- Alcatraz Island Night Tour – Take the eerie ferry ride and hear tales of restless inmates and ghost sightings in the former prison.
- Golden Gate Park’s Stow Lake – Legend has it that the White Lady roams these foggy paths at night.
- Presidio Officers’ Club – One of the city’s oldest buildings, known for unexplainable noises and shadows.
- Sutro Baths Ruins – Especially creepy at dusk, these decaying bathhouses attract thrill-seekers and amateur ghost hunters.
👗 Where to Buy Costumes for Halloween in San Francisco in 2025
Get your Halloween outfit ready at these top local shops:
- Fantasy Clothing Co. (Mission District) – High-end, custom-made costumes and accessories.
- Costume Party (Geary Blvd) – Massive selection of affordable costumes for kids and adults.
- Decades of Fashion (Haight-Ashbury) – Vintage and theatrical pieces to make your costume pop.
🚇 Getting Around San Francisco on Halloween Night
✅ Public Transit
Muni and BART will operate on holiday schedules with extended hours. Many neighborhoods (like the Castro and North Beach) will be closed to vehicles for pedestrian-only parties.
✅ Rideshare Tips
Expect surge pricing after 10:00 PM. Arrange pickups in less congested zones like Civic Center or Mission Dolores.
✅ Safety First
Wear reflective accessories if walking at night and travel in groups. The SFPD will have extra patrols near major event areas.
❓ FAQ: Halloween in San Francisco in 2025
Q: What is the weather like for Halloween in San Francisco in 2025?
A: Expect cool temperatures in the mid-50s°F to low 60s°F, with some fog in the evening. Dress in layers under your costume!
Q: Are Halloween events in San Francisco in 2025 kid-friendly?
A: Yes! Events like Boo at the Zoo, Pier 39, and neighborhood walks like Noe Valley are perfect for children and families.
Q: Is the Castro still celebrating Halloween?
A: While large crowds are managed with more safety now, the Castro remains a top place to enjoy live music, costume contests, and LGBTQ-friendly festivities.
Q: Are pets allowed at Halloween events?
A: Some outdoor events, like Ghirardelli Square and neighborhood walks, welcome leashed pets. Always check event rules beforehand.
Q: Do I need tickets for haunted attractions?
A: Yes, places like Alcatraz Night Tours and the Vampire Ball require advance ticket purchases—book early to avoid sell-outs.