Unique & Unusual Halloween Events Near Universal City 2026

41 unique & unusual Halloween events near Universal City.

As Halloween approaches, Universal City and nearby areas host a mix of seasonal celebrations. For those seeking large-scale street events, the West Hollywood Halloween Carnaval is a well-known draw, while other neighborhoods offer more intimate gatherings and tours.

Consider the spirit of your outing: if a family-friendly Dia de los Muertos festival appeals, the Marina del Rey Grand Parade might be the choice. Alternatively, for an adult-focused evening with spirits of a different kind, the LA Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl offers a distinct experience.

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Illustration of a sunny autumn lawn with pumpkins, hay bales, a small tent, a witch and costumed children under orange trees

Family-Friendly Fall Activities

1 of 16 I-Spy Halloween Train Ride and Festival Los Angeles

Mile-long train ride with hidden pumpkins, carnival games, and photo ops

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 Illustration of a Halloween gathering at dusk with a smiling ghost, costumed figures, glowing jack-o'-lanterns and lights

Food, Drink, and Parties

1 of 24 LA Ghosts Boos and Brews Haunted Pub Crawl Los Angeles

Adults-only haunted pub crawl exploring historic Hollywood bars.

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 Illustration of a small cottage with glowing windows, ghosts, jack o'lanterns and black cats under a full moon at dusk

Haunted Experiences

1 of 16 Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood Universal City

Features eight haunted houses, the Terror Tram, and scare zones.

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 Illustration of a pumpkin character and a ghost performing on a lit stage with red curtains before a crowd at night

Movies, Theater, and Entertainment

1 of 19 Cinespia Halloween Screenings Los Angeles

Iconic outdoor movie screenings at Hollywood Forever Cemetery

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Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a harvest festival and a Halloween festival in Universal City?

Harvest festivals center the season, produce, craft vendors, music, hayrides, with little or no spook factor, making them ideal for mixed ages and anyone opting out of scary content. Halloween festivals add costumes, themed entertainment, and sometimes evening scare elements. Read the listing's imagery and schedule to tell them apart, and check whether a family festival flips spookier after dark.

How do we attend Día de los Muertos events in Universal City respectfully?

Come as a guest, not a spectator: it's a celebration honoring deceased loved ones, not spooky-adjacent entertainment. Participate where invited, processions, community ofrendas, craft tables, ask before photographing people or altars, and buy from the vendors and artists who anchor the event. Learn the basics beforehand, marigolds, ofrendas, calaveras, and skip Halloween costumes; this holiday stands on its own.

How do we find free community Halloween events in Universal City?

Check the sources that don't advertise: library calendars, parks and recreation listings, neighborhood association pages, school and church flyers, and city event roundups, most published in late September. Trunk-or-treats, costume parades, pumpkin-carving meetups, and downtown merchant trick-or-treats are almost always free. Build a season list in one sitting in early October, because the good ones happen once and don't repeat.

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