NEW BLOG: OCTOBER CARLSBAD EVENTS- October is one of my favorite months in Carlsbad. The weather is crisp, the community is buzzing, and there are so many wonderful ways to celebrate the season—including festive Halloween gatherings. As someone who’s lived and worked in North County for years, I love highlighting events that combine local charm, culture, and meaningful community involvement.
Here are my top picks for things to do in Carlsbad in October 2025, all of which are well-organized, family-friendly, and have a charitable component or deep local connection.
1. Sur La Table Cooking Classes
Image via Carlsbad California
Date & Time: Various dates in October 2025
Location: The Forum Carlsbad
Tickets: Available on Sur La Table website
Website: surlatable.com
Parking: Convenient at The Forum
Hands-on culinary classes for all skill levels. Perfect for food enthusiasts who enjoy learning new recipes and techniques.
2. MavBash – An Evening Garden Party
Image via All events
Date & Time: Saturday, October 4, 2025
Location: Carlsbad Flower Fields
Tickets: Available through La Costa Canyon Foundation
Website: facebook.com
Parking: On-site; carpooling recommended
A sophisticated garden party amid the stunning flower fields. Guests enjoy gourmet bites, live music, and cocktails. Proceeds benefit educational programs through the La Costa Canyon Foundation.
3. Taste of Carlsbad Village
Image via Carlsbad Village
Date & Time: Thursday, October 9, 2025, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: Carlsbad Village
Tickets: Sold out (check website for updates)
Website: carlsbad-village.com
Parking: Limited street parking; rideshare recommended
An elegant evening sampling the best Carlsbad has to offer. Over 25 local restaurants present gourmet dishes, paired with fine wines and craft beverages. Part of the proceeds support the Carlsbad Village Association, making this both a culinary delight and a way to support the community.
4. Fall Harvest Festival
Image via Eventbrite
Date & Time: Saturday, October 11, 2025, 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Location: Beacons, 2245 Camino Vida Roble, Suite 100, Carlsbad
Tickets: Available on Eventbrite
Website: eventbrite.com
Parking: On-site; arrive early for best spots
Celebrate autumn with live entertainment, seasonal games, and activities for all ages. Proceeds benefit local community programs, making this festival a meaningful family outing.
5. Grow A Brighter Future Gala
Image via Eventbrite
Date & Time: Friday, October 17, 2025, 6:00 PM
Location: Rancho Carlsbad Golf Course
Tickets: Available on Eventbrite
Website: eventbrite.com
Parking: On-site available
A philanthropic gala supporting local youth initiatives, featuring a silent auction, dinner, and entertainment. A perfect evening for those who love giving back while enjoying a sophisticated night out.
6. Carlsbad Oktoberfest
Image via Rotary Clubs of Carlsbad
Date & Time: Saturday, October 18, 2025, 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Carlsbad Village
Tickets: $10 entrance fee
Website: rotaryoktoberfest.org
Parking: Limited; consider rideshare
Enjoy traditional German fare, live music, and cultural competitions. The event benefits local Rotary projects, combining fun with community impact.
7. Dine Out for Domestic Violence Awareness
Image via Kathy’s Legacy
Date & Time: Thursday, October 24, 2025
Location: Bressi Ranch, Carlsbad
Tickets: No ticket required; dine at participating restaurants
Website: kathyslegacy.org
Parking: Ample at Bressi Ranch
Enjoy a delicious meal while supporting a worthy cause. A portion of proceeds benefits Kathy’s Legacy Foundation, which provides critical services and awareness programs.
8. The Dinner Detective – Grand Opening
Photo credit: Visit Anaheim
Date & Time: Saturday, October 25, 2025, 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: The Cassara Carlsbad Tapestry Collection by Hilton, 5805 Armada Dr
Tickets: Available via The Dinner Detective website
Website: thedinnerdetective.com
Parking: Free on-site
A Halloween-themed interactive murder mystery dinner experience. Great for couples and friends looking for a fun, immersive evening.
9. Halloween Spooktacular
/>
Image via Fox5 San Diego
Date & Time: Saturday, October 25, 2025, 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Location: The Forum Carlsbad
Tickets: Free; registration may be required
Website: carlsbad-village.com
Parking: Ample at The Forum
A festive event for families featuring trick-or-treating, costume contests, and live entertainment. Safe, fun, and perfect for kids and grandparents alike.
10. Pumpkin Plunge at Alga Norte Aquatic Center
Image via City of Carlsbad
Date & Time: Saturday, October 25, 2025, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: Alga Norte Aquatic Center, 6565 Alicante Rd, Carlsbad
Tickets: Available via City of Carlsbad
Website: carlsbadca.gov
Parking: On-site parking available
A family favorite! Kids can swim, enjoy floating pumpkin patches, and participate in Halloween-themed games. A fun, safe way to celebrate Halloween in Carlsbad.
11. Carlsbad Village Trick-or-Treating
Image via Carlsbad Village
Date & Time: Thursday, October 30, 2025, 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Location: Carlsbad Village
Tickets: Free
Website: carlsbad-village.com
Parking: Street parking; arrive early
Local businesses open their doors for an evening of trick-or-treating. A safe, community-driven way for families to enjoy Halloween while exploring the heart of Carlsbad Village.
Conclusion
October is a wonderful time to enjoy Carlsbad, with everything from culinary events and live performances to philanthropic gatherings and festive Halloween fun. As someone who’s lived and worked in North County for years, I love highlighting what makes this community special. As we head into November, look forward to cozy coastal evenings, holiday markets, and community gatherings that celebrate the season. For tips on local events, lifestyle, or real estate in Carlsbad, reach out to me at 858.784.1674 or email kelli.miller@compass.com.
