A group of five dogs and two children are in a pumpkin patch on a sunny autumn day. The dogs are in the foreground, with three in the front row and two behind them. The children are standing behind the dogs, and there are many pumpkins and trees in the background. The sky is orange and there are bats flying in the sky.
family_friendly

Artistic rendering – Event may differ

Howl-O-Ween Doggie Costume Contest and Parade

Doggie costume contest and parade at a historic farm.

About

Bring your canine companions for a tail-wagging good time at Bates Nut Farm's Howl-O-Ween Doggie Costume Contest and Parade. It's the perfect opportunity for pets and their owners to showcase their Halloween spirit in a fun, festive outdoor setting.

Our Take

Scare Factor

👻 (1/5)

Family Friendly

👶 👶 👶 👶 👶 (5/5)

Best For

Dog owners, families, pet lovers

Vibe

Festive, casual, community-oriented

Energy Level

Low to medium

Budget

$

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

Medium (outdoor event, some activities may be weather dependent)

Special Events & Promotions

  • Doggie Costume Contest
  • Doggie Costume Parade
  • Pumpkin Patch Festivities

Tags

pet costume paradecostume contestfamily friendlycommunity eventpumpkin patchfall festival

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.

Location

15954 Woods Valley Road
Valley Center, CA
92082

Event Details

Duration

Specific event duration not specified, but part of the month-long Pumpkin Patch season.

Ages

All ages

Timed Entry

No

Organizer

Bates Nut Farm

Practical Information

Parking

There is a $10 per vehicle charge for parking on September 30th and weekends in October.

Pet Policy

Pet-friendly (dogs on leash)

Food & Drink

Food trucks and beverage vendors available during the Pumpkin Patch season.

Quick Actions

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive early on contest days to ensure a good spot for your dog to participate and for you to find parking, especially on October weekends when parking fees apply.
  • Check the Bates Nut Farm website for the exact date and time of the Doggie Costume Contest and Parade, as it may be a specific event within the larger Pumpkin Patch season.
  • Ensure your dog is comfortable in a crowd and with other animals, as this event will likely attract many participants and spectators.
  • Bring water and treats for your dog to keep them comfortable and happy throughout the event.
  • Consider bringing a portable shade structure or blanket for your dog to rest on, especially if attending during warmer parts of the day.

Frequently Asked Questions

When are you open?

Normal hours are 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM daily. During the 2025 Pumpkin Patch Season, hours are Weekdays 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM and Weekends 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM. They are closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day.

Can I bring my dog to Bates Nut Farm?

Yes, dogs on a leash are always welcome. Attendees are asked to be courteous and clean up after their pets.

Is there a charge to visit Bates Nut Farm?

Admission is free except during the Pumpkin Patch Festivities. There is a $10 per vehicle charge for parking on September 30th and weekends in October.

When does your Pumpkin Patch open?

The Pumpkin Patch opens annually from mid-September through October 31st. Specific event details can be found on their Events page.

What crops do you grow at Bates Nut Farm?

While they no longer grow nuts, they continue to roast and sell many varieties. Their only current crop is pumpkins, gourds, and squash, planted in June.

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Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Nov 11, 2025
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Halloween Events Near Me editorial team

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