10 Events this Fall in La Jolla You Don’t Want to Miss
Nestled between the fun days of summer and the busy holiday season, fall in La Jolla s a great time to make your trip to La Jolla. Aside from endless sunshine and beautiful beaches, our charming town and the surrounding areas offer exciting events and activities throughout the autumn months. Read on to discover La Jolla events in October and November, from a popular art and wine festival to kid-friendly Halloween activities and attractions.
Trick or Treating in the Village
One of the most anticipated among La Jolla events for the fall, La Jolla’s yearly trick-or-treating event is back, this time with a new name. Join trick-or-treaters on October 31st in a fun afternoon of candy hunting at businesses throughout the village (participating ones will be marked by an orange balloon). You’ll see kids donning their best costumes, strolling from store to store in search of Halloween goodies. Bring your kids to the event or simply take in the buzzy energy of the downtown area.
Taste of La Jolla
This yearly tradition is back and ready to impress foodies of all kinds. Taking place on Tuesday, October 25th, and organized by the Foundation of La Jolla High School, this event is an extravaganza of flavors brought to you by local La Jolla restaurants. Head to La Jolla Cove to sample tasters, desserts, and beverages from restaurants old and new. Early bird prices start at $60; all proceeds support under-funded programs at La Jolla High School.
The Scream Zone
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Taking place near La Jolla at the Del Mar Fairgrounds, The Scream Zone is the stuff nightmares are made of. Featuring attractions that range from spooky to downright terrifying, this event runs on select nights from October 5 through October 31. Take a trip on the haunted hayride or see if you can find your way through The Passage, a dark labyrinth not for the faint of heart. Not a fan of being scared out of your britches? Simply come to enjoy the ambiance and get some food from vendors or at the Spirit Lounge bar.
Del Mar Harvest Festival Original Art & Craft Show
Head to the Del Mar Fairgrounds October 13-15, 2023, for this long-awaited festival showcasing tons of beautiful items from artists and artisans. You’ll see a range of handmade items encompassing everything from jewelry and photography to hand-turned wood and ceramics. Kids love the crafts and activities available at the Kidzone and never miss a chance to pet the greyhounds at the Greyhound Adoption Center. The festival is open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, starting at 10 am and closing at 5 pm Friday and Saturday (4 pm on Sunday). General admission is $9, or $7 for seniors and military, and $4 for kids 13-17 (kids 12 and under are free!).
Mr. Jack O’Lanterns Pumpkin Patch
Believe it or not, there’s a La Jolla pumpkin patch ready to transport you to the crisp days of fall! Locals and tourists will descend on this spot at 6710 La Jolla Boulevard from October 1-31, 2023, to pick out pumpkins, play games, take part in activities, and buy everything from Halloween decorations to pumpkin carving sets. Food will also be available for purchase. Admission is free, and leashed dogs are welcome.
La Jolla Art & Wine Festival
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To be held on October 7 and 8 from 10 am to 6 pm, this festival is one of those fall activities in La Jolla that you simply can’t miss. The La Jolla Art & Wine Festival is more than meets the eye, however. In addition to featuring art from more than 160 artists from across the U.S. and Mexico, the event also showcases more than 35 international wineries, local craft breweries, and craft distilleries in its wine and beer garden. In fact, Cormorant Boutique Hotel’s own Birdseye restaurant is participating in the festival—stop by to say hi and sample some of the impressive adult beverages we have picked out for you.
But this festival is about so much more than art and wine—there’s also a two-day silent auction, 15 pet adoption stations, and live music and entertainment. The event takes place along Girard Avenue, and the event is free!
Pacific BeachFest
Held annually on Campbell Place, PB Fest highlights the fun and eclectic spirit of Pacific Beach. On October 7th, over 150 local artisans and merchants will line the street peddling their unique crafts. Sample tasty delights from food trucks far and wide. Catch live performances on multiple stages all day. Join the taco-eating contest or the 5k run. Shop local. It’s a fun, family-friendly event perfect if you want to experience the free-spirited vibe of San Diego’s premier beach community.
San Diego International Film Festival
Now in its 22nd year, the festival celebrates cinema from around the world, with over 200 films screening in theaters across San Diego from Oct 18-22, 2023. Discover your new favorite directors, from independent productions to studio films. Special events include studio premieres, parties, food, drinks, panels with acclaimed actors, cinematographers and producers, plus other exciting events. Check here for the full schedule of events.
Fleet Week San Diego 2023
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This year’s Fleet Week celebrations will take place from November 3 to November 12 at Broadway Pier in Downtown San Diego. Visitors can expect to see interactive displays of military equipment and aircraft and participate in simulated activities. There will also be concerts, boat parades, and opportunities to tour some of the massive naval vessels. It’s a fun and educational event for the whole family to learn more about our armed forces while enjoying beautiful fall weather.
Fall Back Festival
Get ready to turn back the clock and experience a charming slice of San Diego’s history at the 23rd Annual Fall Back Festival, set to kick off on Sunday, November 5th, 2023. This family-friendly event, held in the heart of downtown San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter, transforms the city into a historical wonderland right in front of the Davis-Horton House on 4th and Island Avenue.
It’s a day of play and learning as San Diego’s rich cultural history comes to life through engaging activities and demonstrations. From pie-eating contests to interactive history lessons, there’s something for all ages to enjoy. Immerse yourself in the old-fashioned atmosphere, thanks to historical demonstrators and interactive activities, while supporting the Gaslamp Quarter Historical Foundation’s mission of preserving the city’s history and culture.
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From fall events to Thanksgiving celebrations with families, there’s a lot going on this fall in La Jolla. No matter your reason for visiting, Cormorant Boutique Hotel gives you a stylish base to enjoy in the heart of La Jolla Village. You’ll enjoy ocean views from your own private balcony (select rooms), in-room Nespresso coffee, and 15% off at our chic rooftop restaurant and bar, Birdseye.