NEW BLOG: OCTOBER LA JOLLA EVENTS- Every October, I love seeing La Jolla come alive with events that celebrate community, culture, and creativity—perfect for families, retirees, and anyone looking to enjoy the season. I’m sharing these events because they’re not only well organized and locally loved, but they also highlight the charm and spirit of La Jolla. From art festivals and charity galas to hands-on experiences and live performances, there’s truly something for everyone. And of course, no October is complete without Halloween! La Jolla embraces the spooky season with family-friendly trick-or-treating, festive pumpkin activities, and celebrations that bring neighbors together in the spirit of fun—these are events I personally love to attend and recommend to friends and clients.
1. La Jolla Art & Wine Festival
Image via DOSD
Dates: October 11–12, 2025
Location: Girard Avenue, La Jolla, CA
Website: LJAWF 2025
Parking: Valet $30 (Kline St & Girard Ave), church garage $20 (7715 Draper Ave), limited street parking.
Explore over 170 juried artists, sip wines from 35+ international wineries, and enjoy live music and a silent auction. Proceeds benefit La Jolla public schools, supporting programs in art, music, and technology. Arrive early for the best parking spots and to avoid crowds.
2. Teddy Ball – Black-Tie Charity Gala
Image via C4K
Date: October 18, 2025
Location: Hyatt Regency La Jolla
Website: cruise4kids.com
Parking: Valet $25, self-parking $15.
Gala supporting Cruise 4 Kids with dinner, dancing, and live entertainment. Bring a teddy bear to donate. Tickets sell out quickly; reserve early.
3. Halloween Aglow at Birch Aquarium
Image via There San Diego
Date: October 24, 2025
Location: Birch Aquarium at Scripps Institution of Oceanography
Website: aquarium.ucsd.edu
Parking: Free 3-hour lot; additional street parking along La Jolla Shores Drive.
Glow-in-the-dark Halloween event with science-themed activities and costume contest. Costumes encouraged; great for all ages.
4. La Jolla Dogoween
Image via Eventbrite
Date: October 25, 2025, 10 AM – 1 PM
Location: La Jolla Recreation Center
Website: facebook.com
Parking: Free on-site and nearby street parking.
Family-friendly dog costume contest, pet parade, and activities. Dress your furry friend in Halloween attire for prizes.
5. Birdstock Music Festival
Image via Eventbrite
Date: October 25, 2025, 10 AM – 8 PM
Location: La Jolla Blvd, 5500–5700 blocks
Website: birdstockmusicfestival.com
Parking: Free at Bird Rock Surf Shop, plus nearby street parking.
Free festival with live music, vendors, and family-friendly activities. Arrive early for parking and full-day fun.
6. Beyond the Rainbow – Oz-Inspired Halloween Party
Image via Eventbrite
Date: October 30, 2025, 7–10 PM
Location: Estancia La Jolla Resort & Spa
Website: estancialajolla.com
Parking: Valet $55, self-parking $45.
Sophisticated Oz-themed soirée with cocktails, gourmet bites, costume contest, supporting local charities. Dress to impress; costumes encouraged.
7. Halloween High Tea at La Valencia Hotel
Image via La Valencia
Dates: October 31 – November 1, 2025, 11 AM – 12 PM
Location: La Valencia Hotel, 1132 Prospect St, La Jolla, CA
Website: lavalencia.com
Parking: Valet $30; limited nearby street parking.
Spooky twist on classic Pink Tea with seasonal treats and specialty teas. Reservations required.
Conclusion
October is a wonderful time to enjoy La Jolla, and I love highlighting events that bring the community together. From art shows and charity galas to family-friendly Halloween celebrations, there’s something for everyone to experience. And as we look ahead to November, get ready for cozy coastal days, holiday markets, and festive gatherings that make La Jolla sparkle even more. For tips on local events, lifestyle, or real estate in La Jolla, feel free to reach out to me at 858.784.1674 or kelli.miller@compass.com—I’m always happy to share my insights.
