The Ardenwood Haunted Train 2026
A spooky, not scary historic train ride designed for young families.
58 family-friendly fall activities in Newark and nearby.
Halloween in Newark and nearby communities brings together families at farms, parks, and even breweries. From traditional trick-or-treating to unique pumpkin patch experiences, there's a local celebration for every taste.
Consider events like the Creepy Crawly Halloween Trick-or-Treat in Campbell, or a free family festival just a drive away in Fremont. Explore what makes this season special for your household.
Spooky bar crawl featuring multiple venues, drink vouchers, and an after-party.
Two indoor haunted houses, live queue entertainment, and a horror boutique.
Haunting Dracula ballet performed by the HaoExpression Dance Company.
Explore a 160-room mansion with baffling architecture and a mysterious history.
See all trunk-or-treats, pumpkin patches, and kid-friendly events nearby.
The rule: animals, then handwash, then food, in that exact order, every time. Use the farm's wash stations rather than sanitizer alone when hands touch animals or fences, keep pacifiers and sippy cups in the bag near animals, and don't let kids eat inside the enclosure. Strollers stay outside pens. It's two minutes of routine that prevents the classic post-farm stomach bug.
Farm terrain is the challenge: grass, gravel, and rutted fields vary by venue and by how much rain fell that week. Call and ask about packed paths, accessible restrooms and parking, and whether the picking field has a firm route, since some farms bring pumpkins to a paved area on request. Festivals on fairgrounds or paved lots are the safer default.
Policies split hard: many farms ban pets outright for animal-safety and food rules, while some festivals welcome leashed dogs and even run costume contests for them. Check the venue's FAQ the day before, never assume. If dogs are allowed, bring water, keep them clear of petting zoos and food lines, and be honest about whether crowds plus kids stress your dog.