From Santa Barbara to Solvang, these nine Halloween and fall outings offer family-friendly options for October 2026. Event dates and ticket rules can change; confirm with the organizer before visiting.

9 Halloween family outings in Santa Barbara County

  1. Boo at the Zoo, Santa Barbara Zoo. Daytime October 16–31, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.; separately ticketed evening October 23–25, 5–8 p.m. Official details.
  2. Lane Farms Pumpkin Patch. September 26–October 31; family pumpkin picking. Farm schedule.
  3. Santa Ynez Valley Scarecrow Fest. October 1–31, scarecrow displays in valley communities. Official site.
  4. Santa Barbara Trunk or Treat. October 29, 5–7:30 p.m.; confirm location and participation. City event page.
  5. Solvang Scarecrow Fest. Seasonal downtown displays and fall atmosphere. Solvang calendar.
  6. Solvang Farmer Pumpkin Patch. Check the farm’s opening times before visiting. Tourism guide.
  7. All Hallows Evening at Santa Barbara Botanic Garden. October 23; check ticket availability and suitability for children. Tourism guide.
  8. Thriller at the Courthouse Sunken Gardens. October 24, a seasonal community dance gathering; confirm timing. Tourism guide.
  9. Big Wave Dave’s Pumpkin Patch. Another pumpkin-shopping stop; verify current operating dates. Tourism guide.

How to plan your trip

Keep Santa Barbara city attractions together, and reserve a separate half-day for Solvang and the Santa Ynez Valley. Tickets, parking, hours and weather can affect plans.

Travel planning partner: build a family route with OptionTrip.

More ideas: Santa Barbara County year-round guide and Halloween by county.

California58 editorial guide. Details compiled from the linked official organizers and tourism calendars; verify before travel. Promotional travel link is clearly identified.

Explore Santa Barbara County beyond Halloween

For county-specific communities, public services and local knowledge, visit the Santa Barbara County reference profile. You can also browse all California58 travel guides. Halloween 2026 events are seasonal and may change; check each organizer’s current calendar before traveling.

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