Fall in Carlsbad: Cozy Nights, Coastal Bites & Halloween Delights 2025
With the fall season bringing cozy evenings and festive fun, Carlsbad is the perfect place to celebrate all things autumn.
From unique culinary experiences that showcase seasonal flavors to spirited Halloween celebrations for all ages, fall is one of the best times to explore this coastal paradise. We’ve gathered the insider tips and must-do events to help you enjoy a memorable getaway, or staycation, in Carlsbad.
Festive Fall Dining
Omni La Costa’s Chef & Friends is returning to help you celebrate the season with an unforgettable culinary journey. On Nov. 16, join for “Mac” & Cheese that will include a multi-course menu featuring The Macallan fine whisky. Over the courses, your taste buds will be delighted by artisan cheeses that have been curated to pair perfectly with a flight of whisky. Purchase your tickets before they sell out to secure yourself a spot!
Dinner and a show takes on a new meaning at The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Dinner Show. This interactive comedy show is taking place at The Cassara Carlsbad by Hilton and includes a buffet-style menu with crowd-pleasing favorites. When a crime occurs during dinner it’s up to you to help the detectives crack the case! The audience member who is the top sleuth will receive an exciting prize package. With only three shows remaining on Nov. 15 and Nov. 29, get your tickets now so you don’t miss out on a night of fun.
Unwind by the ocean and experience a spooktacular light show at The Camp Store. This bluff-top restaurant serves up authentic pizza and other delicious bites from their scenic location overlooking the beach. You can even plan ahead and book a firepit or table using their online system. It’s best to settle down for dinner just before sunset so that you can witness their magical Halloween light show that kicks off after the suns sets. From UFOs to singing pumpkins, the show runs now through Nov. 3 and is great for the whole family.
Fa-boo-lous Libations
What could top a nice cold beer on a warm fall day? Being surrounded by adorable pups dressed in their Halloween costumes of course! On Oct. 30, Pure Project in Carlsbad Village is hosting their Howl-O-Ween Costume Party with the official dog costume contest kicking off at 6:30 p.m. The judges will be voting for the top three dogs and will base their scores on humor, originality and creativity. Even if you don’t have a pup to enter the contest you can still sip on one of their seasonal Pale Ales or an award-winning deep and rich stout while admiring all of the phenomenal costumes.
The hidden speakeasy in the Carlsbad Strawberry Company's corn maze is back for another year. The Pacific Coast Spirits’ speakeasy is open every Friday and Saturday night in October but needs a secret password to get in. After purchasing your tickets and entering the pumpkin patch, look for a blue butterfly that will direct you down a secret path. Knock on the door at the end of the path and provide them with the secret password of the day which will be revealed on Instagram. It’s the ideal spot to enjoy a craft cocktail after picking out a glorious pumpkin at the patch. Please note that the speakeasy area is for ages 21 and older.
Fall Nights in Carlsbad
Get nice and cozy at the beach with a bonfire setup by Beach Genie. Save yourself the hassle with a luxurious setup for six people that includes everything you could need for an evening of connection and relaxation. Beach Genie will provide you with chairs, a propane fire ring, s’mores fixings and more so that all you have to do is show up to your chosen beach location. You can even add a spooky twist to your evening by adding on a professional storyteller to your package that will be ready to tell you all about haunted local history.
Looking to make some leisurely Friday night plans? The Westin Carlsbad Resort & Spa is hosting a not-so-scary movie night every Friday this October. Join in for family-friendly fun under the stars with an iconic fall flick on the lawn. The events are open to guests from outside the resort, just head over to the Pacific Lawn at the resort. Check out their upcoming movie schedule and plan your next movie night!
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Whether you’re searching for family-friendly Halloween activities or planning a relaxing fall evening by the ocean, Carlsbad has something special waiting for you this season.