Halloween is a little sweeter when it comes with traditions the whole neighborhood looks forward to. This October, three longtime local favorites are back, from picking out pumpkins on the honor system at Brentwood Country Mart to gathering amid the natural beauty of Simon Meadow and braving the annual Haunted House at Brentwood Science Magnet. Here’s where to celebrate the season close to home.
Pick a Pumpkin at the Mart
Few sights signal fall in Brentwood quite like the pumpkin patch at Brentwood Country Mart. Throughout October, the beloved tradition fills the Mart with pumpkins in various sizes—simply choose your favorite and drop the corresponding payment into the box! The month culminates with the annual Halloween Spectacular on October 31, when costumed kids and their families descend on the Mart for an afternoon of spirited fun. From little ghosts and goblins to superheroes, princesses and more, trick-or-treaters can make their way through the shops collecting treats before showing off their most creative looks in the festive costume contest.
Honor Pumpkin Patch: Throughout October | Halloween Spectacular: October 31; Brentwood Country Mart, 225 26th St.; 310-458-6682; brentwoodcountrymart.com
Brave the Brentwood Haunted House
For two nights only, Brentwood Science Magnet gets a spooky transformation as its annual Haunted House returns October 16 and 17. Presented in collaboration with Coach Steve of Coast Sports, the school fundraiser has become a favorite local Halloween tradition, inviting families to brave a fright-filled journey packed with thrills, chills and plenty of surprises along the way. The excitement continues beyond the scares, bringing neighbors together for a night of Halloween fun while supporting the school community. Proceeds benefit programs at Brentwood Science Magnet, making this Halloween tradition a frightfully fun way to give back to a local school.
The Haunted House at Brentwood Science Magnet; October 16th & 17th | | Friday, 6-8 PM; Saturday, 1-3 PM and 5-7 PM; Brentwood Science Magnet, 740 S. Gretna Green Way; 310-913-3224; coastsports.com
Fall Fun at Simon Meadow
The Lowe Family YMCA’s beloved Pumpkin Patch returns to Simon Meadow October 1 through 31, bringing pumpkins, a hay maze, seasonal photo opportunities and an upcycled art installation to the heart of Pacific Palisades. The natural setting offers families a chance to gather outdoors and reconnect as a community, with proceeds supporting the Palisades YMCA as it continues operating as a “YMCA without walls.” Two special events add to the festivities: On October 10th, the YMCA partners with Santa Monica College for a Blown Glass Sale, featuring handcrafted glass pumpkins, dishes, jewelry and other seasonal pieces by local artists. Then, on October 17th, spread out a blanket and stay awhile at the Community Picnic, a family gathering featuring food, performances, games, sports and more, all designed to bring neighbors together for a fun-filled afternoon.
Pumpkin Patch: October 1st–31st, Monday–Friday, 3–6 PM.; Saturday & Sunday, 10 AM–6 PM | Blown Glass Sale: October 10th, 10 AM–3 PM | Community Picnic: October 17th, 12 PM–3 PM | Simon Meadow, 15551 W. Sunset Blvd., Pacific Palisades; 310-454-5591; ymcala.org