As the leaves begin to change and the air grows crisp, San Diego County comes alive with vibrant fall festivals and community celebrations. From traditional Oktoberfest celebrations to harvest festivals and Halloween fun, the communities of Santee, Poway, La Mesa, and surrounding areas offer something special for everyone this autumn season.
La Mesa: Celebrating 51 Years of Oktoberfest Tradition
La Mesa Oktoberfest stands as one of the region’s most beloved fall traditions. Since 1973, La Mesa Oktoberfest has been attracting Oktoberfest revelers from across San Diego and Southern California, making it a true East County institution. This FREE family-friendly festival runs from Friday through Sunday, October 3 – 5, featuring authentic German music, traditional foods, craft beer, and activities for all ages.
Poway’s Harvest Celebration
The Poway Fall Festival has become a cornerstone of the community’s autumn celebrations. Sunday, October 5, 2025 from 9:00am-4:00pm. Enjoy hundreds of vendors, music & entertainment, and food & drink, with added harvest fun like a pumpkin patch, beer garden and more! Always free to attend.
Families can browse through local vendors, enjoy live entertainment on multiple stages, and let the kids explore the pumpkin patch. The festival atmosphere captures the essence of autumn with harvest-themed decorations and activities that celebrate the season’s bounty.
Santee’s Community Spirit
Santee’s Brews & Bites Festival is an annual fundraiser for the Santee community. It is happening October 18 from 5:30-9:30pm at Town Center Community Park East. Enjoy local food and beverage samples and fundraise for a great cause.
Pumpkin Patches
Nothing says fall like a trip to the pumpkin patch. Local farms across the county offer more than just pumpkins—you’ll find hayrides, corn mazes, and seasonal treats too. Some favorites include:
Bates Nut Farm (Valley Center): A long-time family favorite with a big pumpkin patch, tractor rides, and plenty of activities for kids.
Mountain Valley Ranch (Ramona): A beautiful setting with pumpkins, a corn maze, and fun photo ops.
Oma’s Pumpkin Patch (Lakeside): Known for its kid-friendly activities and charming farm atmosphere.
Halloween Events and More
LEGOLAND Brick-or-Treat (Carlsbad): A Halloween celebration perfect for younger kids, with themed shows, candy stations, and rides.
HalGLOWeen at the San Diego Zoo (Balboa Park): A dazzling, family-friendly event featuring glowing displays, live entertainment, and plenty of Halloween-themed fun among the animals.
Fall Fest at Belmont Park (Mission Beach): A seaside celebration with festive décor, live music, pumpkin painting, seasonal treats, and family-friendly activities right by the beach.
From pumpkin patches to glowing zoo nights and seaside festivals, San Diego County knows how to celebrate the season. With so many fall and Halloween events across the county, there’s no shortage of ways to make lasting memories with family and friends.
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