BOO! Hair-raising (and more tame) Halloween happenings
The abundant growth of pumpkins, candy corn selling by the pound and wings batting helplessly in the night - ‘tis the season for fright. This year’s Halloween scene is sure to thrill the daredevils. But don’t worry. It’ll also take pity on those delicate pumpkins in the patch. Whether you’re up for a scare or down for something a bit more warm and fuzzy, this Halloween season has plenty of local events in store.
GHOULISH HAUNTS
“Dos Equis XX Monster Bash”
If you dare enter the Gaslamp Quarter on Halloween night, be prepared to party with live music performances by cover bands and San Diego’s top DJ’s. There will also be a costume contest with a generous cash prize. 6 p.m. to midnight Oct. 31. The Gaslamp Quarter, Seventh and Market streets, downtown. $20-25. (619) 233-5008,
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“Haunted Hotel”
Your stay at the Gaslamp Quarter’s Haunted Hotel may be somewhat terrifying this Halloween season. Now through Nov. 1. 424 Market St., downtown. $14.99. (619) 696-SCARE,
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“Haunted Trail”
Balboa Park’s “Haunted Trail” is sure to spook the bravest of brave. Its chilling ambience creates a suspenseful mood while you travel down the winding trail. Now through Nov. 1. Sixth Avenue and Laurel Street, Balboa Park. $14.99. (619) 696-SCARE,
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Horror Movie Series
Birch North Park Theatre and Hawthorn’s Restaurant will present horror movies in October: “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” Oct. 31. Call for times. Birch North Park Theatre. $7-$9. (619) 239-8836,
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Julian Historic Cemetery Tours
Uncover the spooky side of history through Julian’s cemetery this Halloween. Embark on a tour that will light up dark spirits through a hand-held lantern. 7 p.m. Oct. 31 and 9 p.m. Nov. 1. Julian Pioneer Cemetery, A Street at Farmer Road, Julian. $5. (760) 765-1857.
“The Monster Manor”
The Ghastley Family residence, more formally known as “Monster Manor,” has risen from the ashes and challenges anyone to enter the mysterious estate. Not recommended for children under the age of 13. 7 p.m. Oct. 17-31. Target Shopping Center, 8235 Mira Mesa Blvd., Mira Mesa. $10. (858) 693-8536.
“Scream Zone”
Shrilling shrieks and chilling cries are expected at this haunted attraction. Featuring the Haunted Hayride, Chamber of Chills and House of Horror, these three frightening attractions are embellished with new scares to make you scream. Now through Nov. 1. Del Mar Fairgrounds, 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd., Del Mar; $14.99-$27.99. (858) 755-1161 or
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Whaley House
The Whaley house is not only one of the two “certified” haunted houses in California, but it is also known to be the most haunted house in the United States (according to Travel Channels, “America’s Most Haunted”). Take a ghost tour of this thrilling, chilling, spook spot. 5 p.m. to midnight Oct. 31. 2482 San Diego Ave., Old Town; $15. (619) 297-7511,
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NOT-SO-SPOOKY SPECTACLES
“Haunted Hamlisch: A Winter Pops Concert”
The San Diego Symphony will fill your ears with less-than terrifying tunes conducted by Marvin Hamlisch. 8 p.m. Oct. 31 and Nov. 1. Copley Symphony Hall, 750 B St., San Diego. $20-85. (619) 235-0804,
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PUMPKINS PERMITTED
Halloween Puppet Shows
The Marie Hitchcock Puppet Theater in Balboa Park. Oct. 29-Nov. 2. Marie Hitchcock Puppet Theatre, 2130 Pan American Place. $3-$5. (619) 544-9203,
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“SeaWorld Spooktacular”
Have a frighteningly fun time watching special Halloween shows, creepy characters and trick-or-treating. Weekends Oct. 4-Nov. 2 and Oct. 31. SeaWorld, 500 SeaWorld Drive. $51-$61. (800) 257-4268,
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This list was complied by Nicole Reino, Erika Ostroff and Emily Lupton.