Fall San Diego Style: An Autumn Bucket List for America's Finest City

The transition from summer to fall may be more gradual here in San Diego than in other places, but it’s still the time of year for pumpkins and turkeys—just with a Californian twist. Check out our list of the top fall events that you and your family can enjoy this season and prepare to start checking them off your bucket list .

Welk Resorts Oktoberfest

Celebrate fall with free entry to the first annual Oktoberfest at Welk Resorts San Diego on October 13 and 14! This event features a craft beer garden hosted by the Legacy Brewing Co., a gaming tournament as well as rides and activities for entertainment, and food trucks and German-themed food stations to satisfy your tastebuds. You can even make it a seasonal escape by booking a Bed & Brew VIP Package that includes accommodations for four and VIP access at the festival! Reserve your free entry tickets today and learn more on our eventbrite page.

Bates Nut Farm

For the past 50 years, this sprawling 100-acre ranch in Valley Center has been home to some of San Diego’s favorite fall traditions. Bates Nut Farm features not only the most massive selection of pumpkins in the county, but also offers tractor hayrides, a straw maze, and a petting corral all season long.

LEGOLAND® Brick-or-Treat Party Nights

Every Saturday night in October, LEGOLAND® plays host to special brick-or-treat party nights with live entertainment, treat stations, costume contests, and meet-and-greets with characters. Kids and adults of all ages can find something fun to get into the Halloween spirit!

Pumpkin Stations

Pumpkin stations are sprinkled throughout San Diego County, and they provide young ones (as well as those who are simply young at heart) with rows upon rows of pumpkins and so much more every fall. Channel your inner child with bounce houses, Ferris wheels, and scarecrow-making contests.

Haunted Hotel

Those who like a bit more thrill in their Halloween are encouraged to check out the Haunted Hotel, an attraction centrally located in the Gaslamp District that’s been scaring locals and visitors alike for over 20 years. Coming face-to-face with zombies, riding a Clown Subway, and making your way through the Hillbilly Swamp will provide you with quite the exciting fall evening.

Old Town San Diego’s Day of the Dead

Once a year, friends and family gather to honor their lost loved ones in a Day of the Dead celebration. This Latin American custom is designed to commemorate the dearly departed as well as highlight Mexico’s rich heritage through face painting, folk dances, and a candlelit procession. Take part in the afterlife festivities in Old Town this year!

Visit Julian

Escape hectic city life and head out on a perfect fall getaway in Julian, a charming mountain community just an hour away from San Diego. From wooden storefronts filled with old-fashioned candy to horse-drawn carriage rides down Main Street, this historic mining town feels like stepping back in time. Don’t forget to indulge in a Julian staple: its famous apple pie!

San Diego Beer Week

Beer lovers across San Diego will unite to raise their mugs from November 3-12 in a collective toast to our city’s thriving craft beer culture. The 10-day beer festival will be filled to the brim with more than 500 brewery-sponsored events, including your pick of local brews and foods specifically selected to pair with different kinds of beers.

San Diego Veteran's Day Parade

If you're going to be in town, why not celebrate Veteran’s Day by attending a patriotic parade? Starting on Harbor Drive, come watch as military units, musical bands, floats, and flag processions march to honor veterans and active duty members of every military branch.

You’ll have your choice of activities to choose from this season, regardless of when you decide to visit.

Look to Welk Resorts for modern, spacious accommodations, and great amenities, yet still conveniently close to the heart of all the fall fun. Visit Welk Resorts San Diego and start planning your trip to America's Finest City today!