As the air turns crisper and the colors warmer, fall’s arrival signals a magical season in Los Angeles that beckons us outdoors. The promise of cozy sweaters, the subtle scent of fallen leaves, and the anticipation of pumpkin-spiced everything – it’s a time of year that stirs excitement in the hearts of all. So, without further ado, let’s dive headfirst into the cornucopia of fall activities that the City of Angels has laid out for us.
#1 Have a Spook-tacular Time at Dia de los Muertos
When: October 28, 2023, 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Where: 6000 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90038
Admission: $35 (GA advance); $150 (VIP)
Hollywood Forever transforms into a vibrant celebration of remembrance and culture. Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is a beloved Mexican tradition where the veil between the dead and the living is lifted, allowing them to share a day together.
This event features a colorful spectacle of people from all over the world, many dressed in elaborate costumes. There are Aztec ritual dancers, 100+ altars that are crafted by community members, face painting, arts and crafts, live performances, and art exhibitions. To sate your appetite, the city’s finest food vendors like Evil Cooks, Me Gusta Gourmet, The Tamale Fiesta, Toro Churros, and many more await.
As the sun sets, judges select the most memorable altars and the best-dressed Calaca (skeleton). It’s an unforgettable experience, an immersion into a rich cultural tradition where death and life coalesce in a spirited gala.
#2 Prost! To the Long Beach Oktoberfest!
When: September 29 to October 22, 2023
Where: 855 Elm Ave, Long Beach, CA 90813
Admission: $20 (general); $150 (VIP)
Long Beach Oktoberfest is more than just a celebration of beer; it’s a weeks-long festivity of delicious cuisine, music, dancing, family fun, and a whole lot more. This festival is a must-visit for anyone looking to savor a day or a weekend of Oktoberfest in Los Angeles.
Now let’s talk about the real stars of the show: the food and the beer. Quench your thirst and hunger with authentic German beers and eats alongside local favorites. Sunday and Saturday Daytime are family-friendly and open to all ages, plus kids under 12 are free.
World-famous Festmeister Hans und Die Sauerkrauts will entertain with his silly antics, wacky games, contests, sing-alongs, and dance-alongs. It’s also highly encouraged to don your Dirndl or Lederhosen.
#3 Explore The Original Farmers Market Fall Festival
When: October 21-22, 2023
Where: 6333 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90036
Admission: free
Bursting with the vibrant spirit of fall, The Original Farmers Market Fall Festival is the city’s cherished harvest celebration. It boasts a delightful array of attractions and activities.
The festivity features a pumpkin patch, an assortment of farm animals to meet and greet, and countless fall-themed games to challenge your skills. But that’s not all – there are kids’ crafts to spark creativity, live music to groove to, and a lot of photo opportunities to capture those cherished moments against the backdrop of seasonal splendor.
The Fall Festival is all about embracing the season with gusto and sharing the joy with our loved ones. It’s definitely an event brimming with laughter, family bonding, and unforgettable memories.
#4 Revel at the Thrills at the 43rd LA Fall Fair
When: October 20 to November 5, 2023
Where: 1600 Rosemead Blvd, South El Monte, CA 91733
Admission: starts at $5; unlimited ride wristband starts at $25
Los Angeles County’s ultimate Fall Festival, the 43rd LA Fall Fair, is a myriad of live music, carnival games, amusement rides, and local artisan treasures. The extravaganza is all about family fun and excitement.
For those seeking thrilling actions, you’re in for a treat with rides like Kamikaze, Thunderbolt, Giant Ferris Wheel, Star Flyer, and Zipper. Aside from the carnival rides, there’s even more to enjoy such as the pony rides and concerts in the park (live music on Saturday and Sunday only). After all the adventure, refuel at the food court where they offer a variety of delectable options to satisfy your cravings.
But before you jump into the fun, remember that no sandals or open-toed shoes are allowed and it’s advised to wear comfy tennis shoes. Additional details on the ride restrictions, live music schedule, and unlimited ride wristbands can be found here.
#5 Enjoy the Pumpkin Patch and Hayrides at The Cal Poly Pomona Pumpkin Fest
When: September 30 – October 19, 2023
Where: 4102 S University Dr, Pomona, CA 91768
Admission: $10 for adults; $8 for children ages 3-12; under age 3 is free
Celebrate Halloween and the bountiful joys of October at The Cal Poly Pomona Pumpkin Fest. Celebrating its 30th year, this festive event promises a fun-filled, wholesome experience for the entire family. What started as a roadside pumpkin patch has blossomed into a huge event that features thousands of pumpkins, a stunning sunflower field, and two intricate corn mazes.
Beyond pumpkins, there are numerous activities to indulge in. Enjoy live music, photo ops, an Ag Demo Zone, a petting farm, hay wagon rides, and duck races. Apart from the Cal Poly Pomona Farm Stand, The Marketplace features snacks, desserts, crafts, and artisan vendors.
Admission grants access to an array of activities, while some require more than 1 ticket or the Activity Wristband, which is also available for purchase online. Moreover, All attractions are free for children under three when accompanied by a paid adult. Please note that the festival is going cashless this year (you can pay with Apple Pay or major credit cards), though select vendors still accept cash.
#6 Indulge in Sweet Fall Delights
As fall sweeps across Los Angeles, savor a delectable lineup of seasonal treats. The Pumpkin Chai Cream Puff at Disneyland’s Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe is a symphony of pumpkin chai mousse and white chocolate crunchy pearls—light and fluffy yet tastes elegant and delicious. On the other hand, Farm Cup Coffee’s take on the classic PSL, The Harvester, is back which is made with real Kabocha (Japanese pumpkin), brown sugar, spices, and vanilla syrup.
For a taste of fall in a scoop, head to Salt and Straw Ice Cream for the Pumpkin Spiced Tiramisu, a harmonious blend of spiced coffee ice cream, maple syrup, cinnamon, clove, and ginger swirled with tiramisu cake and drizzled with chocolate stracciatella and coffee mascarpone. Or opt for the Apple Pie from Dear Bella Creamery which is a cinnamon roasted apple ice cream with freshly baked apple pieces. A little scoop of comfort that is both warm and nostalgic.
The Karma Baker’s seasonal sampler box is also a must-try, featuring a pumpkin donut, a pumpkin spice cupcake jar, a mini apple and a pumpkin pecan crumb loaf, a mini cinnamon pecan coffee cake, and an oatmeal chai sandwich cookie. With each treat bursting with seasonal flavors and autumnal bliss, embracing the fall spirit with these delights truly captures the essence of the season.
Now, it’s your turn to share your excitement. What’s your most anticipated fall activity or event in Los Angeles? Drop a comment below, and let’s come together to revel in the beauty and joy of this bewitching season!
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