Spooky Thrills and Cultural Delights in the Gaslamp Quarter

San Diego’s historic Gaslamp Quarter is transforming into a fall wonderland, serving up a cornucopia of events that’ll have you falling head over heels for autumn.

Gaslamp Quarter Fall events

Haunted Happenings in the Heart of Downtown

The Gaslamp’s Halloween extravaganza kicks off on October 25 and keeps the spooky vibes flowing through the 31st.

We’re talking costume contests that’ll make your creativity shine, bar crawls to quench your thirst for adventure, and enough Halloween-themed parties to make your head spin (in the best way possible).

Whether you’re out to show off your epic costume, sip on some witches’ brew, or just soak in the electric atmosphere, the Gaslamp Quarter is your one-stop shop for All Hallows’ Eve shenanigans.

San Diego Zombie Crawl

Día de los Muertos: A Vibrant Celebration of Life

Hold onto your sombreros, because the 14th Annual Day of the Dead Celebration is about to paint the town in a riot of color! On November 2 and 3, the Gaslamp transforms into a lively mercado bursting with sights, sounds, and flavors that’ll transport you straight to the heart of Mexico.

From 10:30 AM to 8 PM on Saturday and 10:30 AM to 7 PM on Sunday, immerse yourself in the rich tradition of honoring loved ones. Browse artisan crafts, feast your eyes on vibrant décor, indulge in mouthwatering cuisine, and groove to live performances.

Day of the Dead festival

Fall Back in Time: A Historical Adventure for All Ages

On November 3, as we turn back our clocks, the Gaslamp Quarter Historical Foundation invites you to turn back time at the 23rd Annual Fall Back Festival. From noon to 4 PM, this free children’s street fair brings history to life with a bang!

The Davis-Horton House at 4th and Island Avenue becomes a playground of yesteryear, complete with old-timey games, crafts, and—wait for it—a pie-eating contest! It’s an afternoon of family fun that’s as educational as it is entertaining.

Can’t make it in person? No worries! The festival’s gone virtual too, so you can join the historical hijinks from the comfort of your couch.

See you there!

The Gaslamp Quarter fall events run from October 25 through November 3. Most activities are centered in the Gaslamp Quarter, with the Fall Back Festival at the Davis-Horton House (410 Island Ave).

Many events are free, but some may require tickets or have special offers—visit here for all the details.

See you there, San Diego!

Share This Post
The Latest
rustic root menu
Memorial Day is just around the corner, and many San Diego businesses will be offering great specials! Honor the occasion with friends by taking advantage...
Indian Princesses La Jolla Playhouse
La Jolla Playhouse invites you to step into the summer of 2008 with Indian Princesses, a fresh and funny coming-of-age story that unpacks the tangled...
Little Italy Food Hall reimagined
Big things are coming to the Piazza della Famiglia, with the Little Italy Food Hall reimagined as a vibrant, multi-concept dining venue launching Fall 2025....
Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center
There’s a new reason to head south this summer: the long-awaited Gaylord Pacific Resort & Convention Center officially opened its doors today in Chula Vista—and...
Navy's Bay Bridge Run Walk
Ready to hit the bridge for one of San Diego’s most unique and breathtaking races? The Navy’s 38th Annual Bay Bridge Run/Walk is returning—and this...
Escondido Street Festival
The Escondido Street Festival is back and ready to take over Historic Downtown Escondido with a full day of shopping, live music, food, drinks, and...
Recently Featured Restaurants
A new fire has lit up Little Italy—Piedra Santa, an Argentinian-inspired steakhouse, is now open and bringing the bold, smoky tradition of open-flame grilling to...
Dora, a vibrant new Southern Italian restaurant from the husband-and-wife team behind Cori Trattoria, is set to open in La Jolla’s Theater District this fall—and...
There’s a breezy new addition to Little Italy’s dining scene! Brisa, an island vibes and Latin-Japanese fusion restaurant, is now open at the corner of...
Downtown La Mesa has a delicious new addition—Tour de Tapas, a restaurant offering Euro small plates and sips inspired by the culinary traditions of Spain,...
Tajima Crown Point is the latest addition to San Diego’s beloved ramen scene, officially opened on December 14 at 3782 Ingraham Street. Known for its...
Wildland in Carlsbad Village is officially opening its doors, bringing rustic cuisine and coastal-inspired dining to North County. This all-day restaurant, bar, and bakery from...