Fullerton Halloween Festival: A Spooky Celebration You Can't Miss

The city of Fullerton, known for its vibrant community events, hosts an annual Halloween Festival that is second to none in terms of fun, fright, and festivity. This event, which transforms the streets and venues of Fullerton into a grand spectacle, is a must-visit for anyone looking to get into the Halloween spirit. From ghoulishly delightful decorations to spine-chilling activities, the Fullerton Halloween Festival promises an unforgettable experience for attendees of all ages.

When and Where: The Festival Details

The Fullerton Halloween Festival typically takes place during the last weekend of October, providing a perfect lead into the Halloween week. This year's festival is scheduled for October 28th to October 29th, 2023. The primary hub for the festival is Downtown Fullerton, with activities spreading through Harbor Boulevard, Wilshire Avenue, and surrounding streets.

In addition to the bustling downtown area, various attractions are hosted at different sites across the city including Fullerton College, The Fullerton Arboretum, and several local parks. This creates a festive atmosphere citywide, offering a full weekend of activities that cater to families, young adults, and everyone in between.

Festival Highlights: What You Can Expect

1. Halloween Parade

The highlight of the festival is the spectacular Halloween Parade, which kicks off on Saturday afternoon at 3 PM. Starting at the corner of N. Lemon Street and E. Wilshire Avenue, the parade weaves through downtown Fullerton, featuring creatively decorated floats, local marching bands, dance troupes, and various community organizations. Make sure you find a good spot along the route early to enjoy this breathtaking spectacle.

2. Haunted House Experience

For those who dare to embrace the eerie side of Halloween, the Haunted House Experience at The Fox Theatre is a must-visit. Open from 6 PM to midnight on both festival days, this attraction combines Hollywood-quality special effects with a chilling storyline that plays out on each visit. Due to the popularity of this attraction, it's wise to book your tickets online in advance.

3. Farmers Market & Artisan Fair

Running concurrently with the festival, the Fullerton Farmers Market extends its hours from 9 AM to 6 PM. Located at the Fullerton Downtown Plaza, the market offers an array of local produce, handcrafted goods, and Halloween-themed items. It's a great opportunity to support local vendors while enjoying some seasonal treats and picking up unique decorations.

4. Kid's Carnival & Trick-or-Treat Trail

Families with young children won't want to miss the Kid's Carnival at Fullerton Sports Complex. Open from 10 AM to 4 PM, the carnival features games, inflatable rides, face painting, and a pumpkin patch. Additionally, a Trick-or-Treat Trail weaves through the carnival area, where kids can collect candy from various vendors in a safe environment.

5. Spooky Movie Marathon

For those looking to enjoy a relaxed yet spooky experience, head over to the Fullerton Public Library, where there will be a Spooky Movie Marathon held in the community room. Screenings start at 1 PM and include family-friendly classics as well as cult horror films for older audiences.

Themed Costumes and Contests

No Halloween festival is complete without costumes, and Fullerton takes this tradition to the next level with various costume contests held throughout the event. Whether you aim to win Best Overall, Most Creative, or a Group/Family themed category, be sure to register your costume at the designated booths on Wilshire Avenue.

Moreover, a special Pet Costume Contest is held at Hillcrest Park at 2 PM on Sunday. Enthusiastic pet owners can showcase their furry friends' best Halloween attire, with categories for Best in Show, Cutest Costume, and Spookiest Creature.

Food, Drinks, and Entertainment

Fullerton's Halloween Festival goes hand-in-hand with a variety of culinary delights. Throughout the festival, expect an array of food trucks lining the streets, offering festival favorites such as corn dogs, funnel cakes, and ethnic specialties. Additionally, downtown Fullerton's restaurants and cafes often partake in the festivities by creating themed menus and hosting after-parties.

For those looking to enjoy some adult-friendly fun, the Brew Ha Ha Craft Beer Garden located at the Villa del Sol Courtyard is the place to be. Open from 5 PM to 11 PM, this 21 and over venue features live music, a diverse selection of local craft beers, and seasonal ales that set the perfect mood for an evening of Halloween festivity.

How to Get There and Where to Stay

Getting to the Festival: Fullerton is conveniently accessible by train, car, or bus. The Fullerton Transportation Center serves as a key hub for Amtrak and Metrolink services, making it easy for visitors from neighboring areas. For those driving, there are multiple parking structures in downtown Fullerton, though arriving early is recommended due to increased festival traffic.

Accommodation: Visitors planning to stay overnight can choose from a variety of accommodations in Fullerton ranging from charming bed-and-breakfasts to modern hotels. The Fullerton Marriott at California State University and the Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites are popular choices thanks to their proximity to festival events.

Final Tips for Festival Goers

• Plan Your Visit: With multiple activities happening simultaneously, it's beneficial to map out your day to ensure you get to experience your top interests.
• Stay Safe: The festival is sure to be crowded, so keep an eye on personal belongings and keep children within sight. Have a meeting point just in case you get separated.
• Dress Comfortably: Dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes as you'll likely be walking a lot throughout the festival.
• Participate and Engage: Whether it’s dressing up or trying local food, participating will enhance your festival experience.

Conclusion

The Fullerton Halloween Festival is a vibrant and multifaceted event that captures the true spirit of Halloween. With its eclectic mix of music, art, and traditional Halloween activities, this festival positions itself as a standout experience that draws crowds beyond city limits. Don't miss the opportunity to make October memories steeped in spooky fun and family-friendly joy amid the lively streets of Fullerton.