Spooky Season in Santa Clara 2024
By Ben Landis, Marketing Manager
As the air gets crisp and the leaves begin to change, it's that time of year again—Spooky Season is upon us! Santa Clara transforms into a haven for all things haunted and festive, with a variety of thrilling events and eerie attractions. Whether you’re a fan of jump-scares, costume parties, or paranormal stories, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Check out our guide to the best Halloween happenings in Santa Clara this fall!
1. Tricks and Treats at California’s Great America
One of the main highlights of Spooky Season in Santa Clara is the annual "Tricks and Treats" event at California’s Great America. Perfect for families, this experience blends fun and fright, offering a whimsical spin on traditional Halloween festivities. Wander through the park’s immersive themed zones, enjoy kid-friendly spooky entertainment, and don't forget to snag some treats along the way! The park also features eerie decor, special live shows, and, of course, plenty of opportunities for everyone to dress up in their favorite costumes. Learn more here.
2. Mission College Monster Dash and Bash
Ready to break a sweat in your Halloween best? Held annually at Mission College, this family-friendly event invites participants to dress up in their most outrageous costumes and hit the streets for a spooktacular 5K. After crossing the finish line, the celebration continues with the Monster Bash, a lively after-party filled with music, games, and ghoulish fun.
Pro tip: Sign up early to grab a spot and plan a group costume with friends for extra fun! Learn more here.
3. Children's Spooktaclara Halloween Party
If you're looking for a less spooky option that’s perfect for little ones, the Children's Spooktaclara Halloween Party is the ideal family-friendly event. Hosted by The City at Central Park, this party includes fun activities like pumpkin painting, trick-or-treating, and even a costume parade for kids. The event is designed to bring the community together, offering a safe, lighthearted way to celebrate Halloween with young children.
Pro tip: Arrive early to beat the crowds and ensure your little goblins can participate in all the activities. (Learn more here.)
4. Visit the Remnants of Agnews State Hospital
For those seeking a chance at a paranormal thrill, a visit to the remnants of Agnews State Hospital will satisfy your craving for spooky history. Originally known as "The Great Asylum for the Insane" in the late 1800s, the hospital housed hundreds of patients, many of whom tragically perished during the 1906 earthquake. Though the hospital was later rebuilt in Mediterranean Revival style and operated until the 1970s, it was eventually closed after the Lanterman Act.
Today, four historic buildings remain preserved on the site, offering an eerie yet fascinating glimpse into Santa Clara's haunted past. Visitors can explore an open-air exhibition about the hospital’s history, but beware—rumors of paranormal occurrences, from flickering lights to strange odors, have been reported.
Fun Fact: Did you know that Green Day filmed their iconic "Basket Case" music video at this location? Now that's a spooky piece of pop culture!
Location: 4000 Lafayette St., Santa Clara, California.
No matter your preference for Halloween thrills, Santa Clara has something to offer everyone during the Spooky Season. So grab your costumes, your friends, and maybe a flashlight—because you never know what might go bump in the night