Table of Contents
Halloween Events San Francisco Locals and Tourists Will Love
When October arrives, Halloween events San Francisco offers are unlike anywhere else. From historic haunted buildings to fog-draped parades and nightlife that goes until dawn, the City by the Bay pulls out all the spooky stops. Known for creativity, diversity, and an inclusive spirit, San Francisco offers a Halloween experience that can be quirky, terrifying, or heartwarmingly family-friendly—depending on what you’re looking for.
Why San Francisco Is the Perfect City for Halloween
San Francisco is the ideal Halloween city thanks to its rich history, iconic foggy atmosphere, and artistic community. The blend of Victorian architecture, narrow alleys, and ghost lore (from Alcatraz to Gold Rush spirits) provides a hauntingly beautiful backdrop. Add in tech-fueled light shows, drag performers, and cultural parades—and you get a truly one-of-a-kind Halloween experience.
Most Popular Halloween Events San Francisco Hosts Each October
Ghost Ship Halloween
📍 Pier 70 or Treasure Island
An epic adult-only dance party with towering art installations, fire effects, and headlining DJs. Ghost Ship is San Francisco’s Burning Man meets Halloween vibe—with thousands in imaginative costumes.
The San Francisco Mint Haunted House
📍 88 5th Street
This historical building becomes a multi-level haunted house, complete with actors, maze-like corridors, and eerie special effects. It’s a high-production thriller for those who love immersive scares.
Boo at the Zoo
📍 San Francisco Zoo
Kids can trick-or-treat around animal exhibits, see pumpkins fed to lions and bears, and enjoy a safe Halloween experience filled with learning and play.
Halloween Hoopla at Yerba Buena Gardens
📍 Mission & 4th Streets
Live music, costume parades, crafts, and dance troupes entertain kids in this free outdoor event. It’s a great choice for families with toddlers.
Halloween at the Exploratorium
📍 Pier 15
Expect spooky science demos, themed exhibits, and hands-on activities. Some evenings are adult-only with drinks and music; others cater to children and school groups.
Castro Halloween Celebrations
📍 Castro District
Once an unofficial mega-party, Castro’s Halloween is now more organized but still electric. You’ll find bar specials, drag shows, and thousands of costumed visitors roaming the rainbow-lit streets.
SF Halloween Pub Crawl
📍 Marina, North Beach, SoMa
Join thousands of costumed revelers for a multi-day pub crawl with drink specials, costume contests, and DJ sets. Great for groups looking for nightlife fun.
Black Pearl Halloween Yacht Party
📍 Pier 3
Sail across the Bay at night with a fully decked-out boat party featuring DJs, dancing, and spectacular views of the skyline. Must be 21+.
Unique & Lesser-Known Halloween Events in San Francisco
Haight-Ashbury’s Halloween Haunt
Historic, artsy Haight Street lights up with local bands, pop-up costume shops, tarot readers, and a street party atmosphere that reflects SF’s hippie roots.
Halloween Skate Night at Church of 8 Wheels
This retro roller disco holds a costumed Halloween skate with funky music and glow-in-the-dark accessories under the stained-glass ceiling of a former church.
Chinatown Ghost Tours
Wander the alleys of Chinatown with a guide who’ll share chilling stories of spirits and ancient curses in one of SF’s oldest and most mysterious neighborhoods.
Dog Costume Parade at Duboce Park
A heartwarming (and hilarious) event where locals show off their pets in themed Halloween costumes. Prizes, treats, and tons of Instagram moments.
Top Family-Friendly Halloween Events in San Francisco
West Portal Halloween Stroll – Businesses hand out candy, and musicians play as families in costume explore this charming neighborhood.
Japantown Trick-or-Treat Trail – Enjoy kid-safe trick-or-treating with a cultural twist. Some shops offer Japanese candy and activities.
Randall Museum Halloween Day – Crafts, face painting, and a not-too-spooky haunted house for young ones.
Children’s Creativity Museum Halloween Workshop – Kids can make their own spooky crafts, costumes, and masks.
Halloween Events San Francisco Haunted Attractions & Ghost Tours
Alcatraz Night Tour – Go beyond the daytime crowds and experience the eerie silence of the prison after dark.
Presidio Pet Cemetery and Ghost Walk – This hidden gem tour explores forgotten graveyards and military ghost stories.
Haunted SF Tour by Wild SF Walking Tours – Dive into tales of unsolved murders and underground speakeasies in the Tenderloin and beyond.
Tips for Enjoying Halloween Events San Francisco
Weather Ready: Expect chilly nights—SF’s fog rolls in hard. Dress in layers under your costume.
Plan Early: Many events sell out in advance (especially yacht parties and haunted houses).
Use Public Transit: BART, Muni, and cable cars can help you avoid gridlock downtown.
Group Up: Costumes are better with friends! Many events offer discounts for groups.
Safety First: Carry a phone charger, water, and make a plan for getting home safely.
Suggested Costumes for SF Halloween Events
San Franciscans take Halloween seriously—here are some costume ideas that fit the vibe:
- Tech Zombie – An undead coder with a broken iPhone and tangled USB cords.
- Fog Monster – Dress in layers of tulle and LED lights to mimic the SF fog.
- Historic Ghost of Alcatraz – Wear stripes and shackles for haunted island flair.
- Castro Diva – Go full glam with a feather boa and fabulous heels.
- Gothic Victorian – Perfect for ghost tours and haunted houses.
- Eco-Witch – A sustainability-themed witch using recycled accessories.
🎃 FAQ – Halloween Events San Francisco
Q: What’s the best Halloween event in San Francisco for adults?
A: Ghost Ship Halloween and the Black Pearl Yacht Party are top picks for nightlife lovers.
Q: Are there free Halloween events in San Francisco?
A: Yes! Halloween Hoopla, Haight Street parties, and the Duboce Park dog parade are all free and open to the public.
Q: Is San Francisco safe on Halloween night?
A: Generally yes, but like any big city, stay in groups, stick to well-lit areas, and use public transit or rideshares to get home.
Q: Where can I take my kids for Halloween fun in SF?
A: Boo at the Zoo, Yerba Buena’s Hoopla, and Ghirardelli’s trick-or-treating are excellent for kids.
Q: Do I need tickets for haunted houses and boat parties?
A: Absolutely. These events are popular and can sell out weeks in advance. Buy early.
Q: What time do most Halloween events start?
A: Family events usually run 11am–4pm, while adult nightlife events kick off around 8pm and go until late.
Q: Can tourists easily attend these events?
A: Yes! Many Halloween events in San Francisco are designed for visitors, especially in tourist-friendly areas like Union Square, Fisherman’s Wharf, and the Embarcadero.
Leave a Reply