October in SLO County is where it’s at! As the leaves start to change and the cool coastal breezes roll in, San Luis Obispo is buzzing with all the fall vibes. Think golden vineyards ready for harvest, cool events popping up all over town, and local markets overflowing with the best of the season. From spooky ghost tours to cozy wine nights, October 2023 is shaping up to be a month full of fun and festivities. So, grab your sweater and let’s dive into the coolest things happening in SLO this fall.
THINGS TO DO THIS HALLOWEEN | HAUNTED HOUSE LOCATIONS
PUMPKIN PATCH LOCATIONS
#1 Scarecrow Festival 2023 (Cambria) – ALL OCTOBER
This October, more than 400 imaginative and lively scarecrows will line the streets of Cambria’s East and West Villages, Moonstone Beach, and San Simeon.
#2 Brookshire Farm Night Maze – San Luis Obispo
Brookshire Farms will be hosting their Night Maze on October 21, 21, 27 & 28 from 7:30p to 10. No ghouls but let your imagination run wild. Bring your flashlights. Tickets Here
#3 Experience ARTober (San Luis Obispo) – ALL OCTOBER
San Luis Obispo’s arts and culture scene would not be as vibrant without local engagement. To encourage further support and appreciation of local arts and humanities organizations, the community is invited to Experience ARTober by engaging with SLO’s many diverse offerings.
#4 Art in the Park at Dinosaur Caves (Pismo Beach) – Sunday, October 1 @ 10 am
Art in the Park features over 50 artisan vendors, food booths, music and amazing views right on the cliffs in Pismo Beach to enjoy with the entire family.
#5 Central Coast RV Show (San Luis Obispo) – October 5-9
The Central Coast RV Show returns to the Madonna Inn! Shop 19 RV manufacturers, hundreds of RVs on sale each day.
#6 Three Speckled Hens: Antiques & Old Stuff Show (Paso Robles) – October 6-7
The Three Speckled Hens Antiques and Old Stuff Show is a biannual event that specializes in selling one-of-a-kind antique and vintage items. Over 100 vendors will participate in the show, selling everything from antiques and vintage items to re-purposed treasures.
#7 Central Coast Railroad Festival (SLO County) – October 6 @ 10 am
The Central Coast Railroad Festival (CCRRF) is a broad-based festival that focuses on railroading of many types with an eye toward the beauty of the central coast of California.
#8 Big Ditch Market (Arroyo Grande) – Friday, October 6 @ 4 pm
Big Ditch features over 30 talented handmade artists, makers, or vintage resellers, as well as food trucks in the heart of Arroyo Grande.
#9 Art After Dark (San Luis Obispo) – Friday, October 6 @ 5 pm
Art After Dark is a self-guided art walk that allows the community to experience visual, literary, and performing art in galleries and other venues during the first Friday of every month.
#10 Yellow Conference (San Luis Obispo) – October 6-8
Join the 7th Annual Yellow Conference for entrepreneurial women and non-binary leaders! The conference will equip you and your business with the readiness to not just adapt to the future, but actively shape it for the greater good.
#11 FIRST FRIDAYS! (Atascadero) – Friday, October 6 @ 5:30 pm
Indulge in the magic of First Friday Concerts and entertainment! Whether it’s a romantic date night or a delightful family outing, Downtown beckons with its diverse tapestry of dining establishments, charming boutique shops, and captivating entertainment options!
#12 Colony Days Parade & Festivities (Atascadero) – Saturday, October 7 @ 10 am
Experience life the way it used to be during the early days of the Colony of Atascadero! Come enjoy a special parade followed by activities throughout Tent City and Sunken Gardens, tours of City Hall and the Colony House, and more!
#13 Water Front Market (Morro Bay) – October 7-8
Come explore the unique offerings of the central coast. You’ll find a diverse range of one-of-a-kind gifts, including soy candles, stitched and knitted goods, bath and body products, incense, local snacks, jewelry, and more.
#14 SLO Ranch Farms & Marketplace: Fall Preview (San Luis Obispo) – Saturday, October 7 @ 11 am
Join us this Saturday to discover our new Marketplace vendors while savoring complimentary refreshments. Immerse yourself in a vibrant atmosphere with guided tours of the Center, encounters with friendly animals, and playful moments with games like Cornhole. Capture memories by the Hay Bale Stacks and stand a chance to win exciting prizes through our numerous raffles and giveaways. Be a part of this communal event and see firsthand what everyone’s talking about!
#15 SLO Public Market Harvest Festival (San Luis Obispo) – Saturday, October 7 @ 12 pm
Join us for the SLO Public Market Harvest Festival. There will be live music from local artists, Little Tyme and Sultrio, local pop up vendors, candle making, a bounce slide and inflatable games, free face painting, crafts, and more!
#16 4th Annual Stories Matter (San Luis Obispo) – Saturday, October 7 @ 7 pm
Live storytelling showcase featuring Central Coast community members & visiting artists .sharing true, personal stories. Produced in collaboration with The Reboot – Storytelling ReImagined,
#17 Brunch, Bubbles & Boobs (Pismo Beach) – Sunday, October 8 @ 9 am
Brunch, Bubbles & Boobs is a breast cancer awareness and fundraising brunch created by Real Men Wear Pink.
#18 Rock the Waterfront (Morro Bay) – Wednesday, October 11 @ 5:30 PM
Revel in live tunes by Riff Tide, savor gourmet hors d’oeuvres, and partake in a unique silent auction. Celebrate maritime history in style.
#19 7th Annual Showdown Cornhole Tournament (Atascadero) – October 13-14Â
It’s time for the Annual Showdown Cornhole Tournament! Proceeds benefit North County Adaptive Sports & Recreation Program!
#20 The Downtown Vibe (Paso Robles) – October 13-15
Get ready to experience the ultimate downtown vibe at our upcoming Paso Robles Downtown Vibe Wine Festival! This three-day event will be filled with creative, collaborative events focused on the love of wine and of our downtown district. You’ll get to indulge in wine pairings, winemaker seminars, comparative tastings, and so much more.
#21 Open Studios Art Tour Kickoff Celebration (SLO County) – October 14-15 & 21-22
#22 93rd Annual Pioneer Day (Paso Robles)
#23 Central Coast Writers’ Conference (San Luis Obispo) – Saturday, October 14 @ 8 am
The Cuesta College Central Coast Writers’ Conference (CCWC) has been helping new and established writers fulfill their dreams. Enjoy 16+ expert panels, featuring 50+ experts & thought leaders.
#24 Children’s Business Fair (Avila Beach) – Saturday, October 14 @ 10 am
Support our young entrepreneurs! At the Children’s Business Fair, kids develop a brand, create a product or service, build a marketing strategy, and then open for customers at our one-day marketplace with over 50 booths!
#25 2nd Maritime Museum Family Fun Day (Morro Bay) – Saturday, October 14 @ 10 am
Celebrate Morro Bay’s Waterfront at the 2nd Annual Maritime Family Fun Day! Located behind the Maritime Museum, this event promises a day filled with delightful food, live entertainment, and a range of activities for the whole family.Â
#26 Rambling Spirits Bar & Grill Grand Opening (San Luis Obispo) – Saturday, October 14 @ 12 pm
San Luis Obispo has always been a haven for food and drink enthusiasts. This month, the city will be treated to a delightful new addition – Rambling Spirits’ Bar & Grill, promising a blend of impeccable taste, community spirit, and Californian adventure!
#27 Kick-Ass MuleFest (San Luis Obispo) – Saturday, October 14 @ 2 pm
SLO county favorites will present their finest Mule. You will have the opportunity to taste them all and vote for your favorite Mule in each style!
#28 The 4th Annual Butterfly Ball: An Adventure in Wonderland (San Luis Obispo) – Saturday, October 14 @ 2 pm
The Central Coast State Parks Association is hosting its fourth annual Butterfly Ball to acknowledge and recognize people in our community who make a difference in monarch conservation.Â
#29Â Antique Street Faire (Cayucos) – Sunday, October 15 @ 7a
Hosted twice yearly in the spring and fall along Ocean Avenue, enjoy beautiful Cayucos-by-the-Sea while shopping for antiques, collectibles, and vintage items.
#30 Blends. Bites. Bond. (Paso Robles) – Sunday, October 15 @ 5:30 pm
Enjoy an intimate evening of new Cloak & Dagger wine releases, delicious small plates and a live musical performance of James Bond Movie themes.
#31 18th Annual Great Pumpkin Contest (San Luis Obispo) – Thursday, October 19 @ 12pm
Come to Mission Plaza for fun, education, tractors, face painting, and of course giant pumpkins!
#32 77th Annual Pismo Beach Clam Festival (Pismo Beach) – October 21-22
A community tradition since 1946, the 77th annual Pismo Beach Clam Festival, attracts generations of families and visitors from all around, who look forward to spending three days overlooking the Pacific Ocean in Pismo Beach.
#33 Golden Oak Honey & Pumpkin Festival and Kids’ Flea Market (Paso Robles) – Saturday, October 21 @ 10am
Learn all about the magic of bees! This family fun event will feature education on backyard beekeeping and best practices. Of course there will be honey tasting too! Bring the entire family out for this fun event!
#34 Family Fall Festival (Templeton) – Saturday, October 21 @ 3 pm
The Templeton Family Fall Festival is free for all Chamber members and local Templeton residents. Festivities to include a live band, kids activities, bounce houses, a mechanical bull, and more!
#35 Ancient Peaks Winery Invites You to “Walk for Cancer” (Paso Robles) – Sunday, October 22 @ 9 am
Wear pink and walk a 2-mile loop through Margarita Vineyard, home of Ancient Peaks Winery to raise funds for Breast Cancer Awareness.
#36 Tractor Pull 2023 (Templeton) – Sunday, October 22 @ 12 pm
The Templeton FFA Tractor Pull is back! Proceeds will go toward scholarships and putting on FFA conferences and events.
#37 Festival of Journalism (San Luis Obispo) – October 26-27
Whether you’re an aspiring journalist or a seasoned professional, this event offers something for everyone!
#38 Halloween at the Downtown SLO Farmers’ Market (San Luis Obispo) – Thursday, October 26 @ 6pm
#39 Marathon Monster Mash (Arroyo Grande) – October 27-29
The City of Arroyo Grande is having a 3 day Marathon Monster Mash at Elm St. Park. Scary Maze, water walking balls obstacle course, carnival games, FREE trick or treating, rock wall, DJ, food trucks and more!
#40 Annual Trunk or Treat (Grover Beach) – Friday, October 27 @ 5:30 pm
If you’re looking for a fun and family-friendly way to get into the Halloween spirit, look no further than the Grover Beach Annual Pumpkin Carving Competition. This beloved event takes place every October at Ramona Garden Park and offers a day of pumpkin-filled fun for people of all ages.
#41 Murder Mystery Dinner at The Castle (Paso Robles) – Friday, October 27 @ 6pm
Castle & Crime, Murder & Wine. Who did it? How and why? Help us catch the killer on the loose.
#42 2nd Annual Bovine Classic (Atascadero) – Saturday, October 28
Gear up for a unique cycling experience like no other! Dive into a weekend of top-tier gravel cycling infused with the vibrant essence of the cow theme. It’s not just a ride; it’s a journey through the scenic beauty that promises an unforgettable taste of the SLO Life.Â
#43 Zombie Invasion SLO (San Luis Obispo) – Saturday, October 28 @ 10 am
The Central Coast Autism Spectrum Center presents Zombie Invasion SLO! This is an untimed 5K walk or run for the whole family! Come and be a zombie, a survivor, or stay and do both!
#44 Pumpkins in the Park (Pismo Beach) – Saturday, October 28 @ 10am
City of Pismo Beach Recreation presents Pumpkins in the Park. There will be Downtown trick or treating, pumpkin decorating, costume contest and more!
#45 Celebrate Community Festival & Walk for Survivors (San Luis Obispo) – Saturday, October 28 @ 11 am
Come to Mission Plaza to support survivors and raise awareness of sexual & intimate partner violence in our community in recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM). “Walk for Survivors” through downtown SLO to show your support and advocate for ending violence in our community.
#46 Boots & Booze Country Festival (San Luis Obispo) – Saturday, October 28 @ 12 pm – RESCHEDULED FOR MAY 25, 2024
Get ready for a foot-stomping good time at the 805 Boots N Booze Country Festival! This all-ages event promises more than just music.Â
#47 THE ROCK’S 10th Birthday Concert Fundraiser (Morro Bay) – Saturday, October 28 @ 4 pm
Enjoy a night of music and community spirit! Our yearly concert isn’t just any event; it’s the heartbeat that fuels The Rock Community Radio. By attending, you play a crucial role in preserving our cherished commercial-free, free-form radio broadcast.
#48 Â Wiggle Waggle Fall Festival (San Luis Obispo) – Saturday, October 28 @ 12pm
Come out for a special community pet celebration. Woods Humane Society will be hosting kids’ and canines’ costume contests, canine carnival activities, local food and shopping, and photos in the Pup-kin Patch or with Santa Paws.
#49 Zoo Boo at Charles Paddock Zoo (Atascadero) – Saturday, October 28 @ 5pm
It’s Halloween fun for all ages at the Charles Paddock Zoo! Get your best costume ready and bring the entire family out to a not-too-scary evening at Zoo Boo!
#50 Wineries of 46 East “Taste or Treat” Halloween Poker Run (Paso Robles) – Saturday, October 28 @ 5:30 pm
Visit Vina Robles Vineyards & Winery for our “Taste or Treat” Halloween Poker Run Wine & Candy Pairing event! Enjoy your Poker Run Passport and commemorative wine glass and stroll around to each station to be treated to 3 wine tastings, paired with Halloween candy from each of our participating member wineries.
#51 A Salute to Scarecrows (Cambria) – Saturday, October 28 @ 6 pm
Mark your calendars for a night under the stars! Toast to our 15th year of SALUTE TO SCARECROWS, prepare to be whisked away by a magical blend of melodious music, fine wine, delectable food, and captivating costumes.
#52 46 West Harvest “Hallowine” Block Party (Paso Robles) – Saturday, October 28 @ 6 pm
Join the Wineries of the 46 West on Saturday, October 28th at Barton Family Estate as we celebrate the harvest and our first ever, “Hallowine” Harvest Block Party!
#53 Haunted House of Wine – (Paso Robles) – Saturday, October 28 @ 7pm
Tooth & Nail Winery’s epic Costume Ball is back and we’re ready for all you witches and warlocks to STORM THE CASTLE. Come dressed in your Halloween best to be entered into the castle costume contest.
#54 Molly Ringwald Project 80’s Halloween Party (Morro Bay) – Saturday, October 28 @ 8:00p
Molly Ringwald Project returns for their annual Halloween celebration! Always a sellout so get your tickets and your 80’s costume asap!
#55 Marathon Monster Mash – (Arroyo Grande) – October 27-29
Bring the entire family and enjoy a night of carnival games, costume contests, bounce houses, Haunted Maze, Laser Tag, live DJ, and more!
#56 BAY LOVE Oktoberfest (Baywood-Los Osos) – Sunday, October 29 @ 9am
This free family friendly annual festival is always awesome, and this year we are adding to the experience by providing live music during the morning Fun Run and pancake breakfast provided by the Kiwanis Club!Â
#57 Witches and Warlock Paddle (Morro Bay) – Sunday, October 29 @ 11 am
This bewitching event is open to the public and benefits the Food Bank Coalition of San Luis Obispo County. Don your favorite witch or warlock costume and meet at Coleman Park
#58 Dia De Los Muertos (San Luis Obispo) – Sunday, October 29 @ 12 pm
A celebration of Dia De Los Muertos (The Day of the Dead) in Mission Plaza. The event will include altars, folkloric dancers, a mariachi concert, non-profit information booths, face painting, and a costume contest.
#59 Camp Ocean Pines Harvest Festival (Cambria) – Sunday, October 29 @ 1pm
Select your own pumpkin from the pumpkin patch, and decorate in some spooky way. Play carnival games, or try your hand at ax throwing. Kids can enjoy some ooey-gooey caramel apples, and adults can sample some local wine and bee
#60 Hocus Pocus Outdoor Movie Night at the Cliffs (Pismo Beach) – Sunday, October 29 @ 6:30 pm
Experience the beauty of the sun setting on the Pacific coast as our featured film starts on the BIG screen.
#61 Safe & Fun Halloween Downtown (Paso Robles) – Monday, October 31 @ 3pm
Celebrate Halloween day in Downtown Paso Robles for a safe & fun event. Costumes, photos with witches, dance demos, Trick or Treat, and more!
#62 Trick or Treat Downtown (Atascadero) – Monday, October 31 @ 5pm
Downtown Atascadero is celebrating Halloween! People and pets of all ages are welcome to come and enjoy family, children, and pet costume contests, hay maze, and of course, Trick or Treating!
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THINGS TO DO THIS HALLOWEEN | HAUNTED HOUSE LOCATIONS
PUMPKIN PATCH LOCATIONS
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