During this time of year, the neighborhood celebrates Halloween and the Day of the Dead, which inspires an annual calendar of events that allows locals to maintain their bicultural lifestyles with friends and family.
The range of options available is vast and wide. For instance, the city of San Diego organizes the Autumn Festival, which offers a variety of fun activities for children of all ages in the spirit of Halloween. This event occurs in multiple recreation centers and public parks, providing ample opportunities for kids to enjoy the season.
Activities include costume contests, outdoor movies, carnivals, and many sweets. Event attendance is free and scheduled almost every day until October 31.
There will be a macabre gathering at Carmel Valley Community Park on Friday, October 27, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m., a Trunk or Treat at Colina Del Sol Recreation Center on Friday, October 27, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., and Movies in the Park at Linda Vista Recreation Center, with “Vivo,” on Friday, October 27, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. Another option is the Halloween costume event and movie in the park at North Park Recreation Center.
The Robert Recreation Center Halloween Carnival Egger-South Bay is scheduled for Friday, October 27, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., while the Halloween Festival at Ocean Beach Elementary Joint Use Field is slated for Friday, October 27, at 4:30 p.m. Halloween Movies in the Park at Standley Recreation Center will feature “Hotel Transylvania II” on Saturday, October 28, from 5:15 to 7:50 p.m. Balboa Park Spooktacular at Palisades Plaza will take place on Saturday, October 28 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. A complete list of upcoming Festival events for Parks and Recreation can be found on the website sandiego.gov/parks-and-recreation.
On the other hand, the Bazar del Mundo and Casa Guadalajara are planning a celebration of the Day of the Dead. This Mexican tradition honors friends and relatives who have passed away from October 29 to 30.
On the Day of the Dead, ornate altars called “ofrendas” are decorated with priceless mementos from the departed’s lives and traditional items like marigold flowers, candles, water, bread, salt, and the passed favorite dishes and drinks. The famous fountains at Casa Guadalajara will serve as altars for visitors this coming weekend. The event will occur at 4133 Taylor Street in San Diego and begin at 11:00 a.m.