Seven Ways to Celebrate Fall in and Around Irvine

As a new season falls upon us, pumpkins are popping up everywhere and Irvine is filled with the excitement that autumn brings. With Halloween quickly approaching, there are plenty of opportunities for themed activities, creative costumes and festive ways to get into the spirit. We’ve gathered a list of things to do in Irvine and throughout Orange County so you can make the most of this time of year.

Pick a Pumpkin at Tanaka Farms in Irvine

Tanaka Farms in Irvine

Start the season with the perfect pumpkin from a family-run farm in Irvine! Dedicated to providing all families with quality products and educational experiences, the annual Pumpkin Patch and Fall Harvest Festival at Tanaka Farms is back through October 31. Find the best pumpkin to decorate or carve this year, then enjoy a barnyard educational tour, a wagon ride around the 30-acre farm or arts and crafts for kids. Visit Tanaka Farms’ website for tickets, hours and parking information. 

Get Fit This Fall With a 5k and 10k Run 

Gear up for a fall event that brings fitness to the forefront. The Halloween Harvest Fall Fit 5k and 10k run takes place on October 22 in Irvine and is perfect for anyone looking for a fun way to work out while getting in the Halloween spirit. This chip-timed race is ideal for runners and walkers of all ages and skill levels, with 5k and 10k race options surrounding Irvine Valley College. Race participants will be given finishers medals and shirts, and a costume contest will occur afterward. Children can participate, too, with a kid’s half-mile pumpkin patch run and 200-yard “diaper dash.”

Have a Spooktacularly Good Time 

What do laser tag, escape rooms and pumpkin carving have in common? They are all taking place at the Spooktacular event in Lake Forest on October 22! This annual Halloween-themed event will run from 4-8pm and include games, trunk-or-treat and other activities for children and adults. Dress up in your favorite costume; however, it is requested that participants refrain from wearing full face paint or face masks. Wristbands are required and can be purchased on the day of the event.  

Locate a Local Haunted House

One of the many great benefits of life in Orange County is the family oriented-community and unique, free things to do in Irvine. Gather your loved ones and explore frightfully fun local haunted houses and events on the SoCal Haunt List. You can find spooky yard displays, haunted houses and paid attractions available for all who love a good thrill. This year, several participating homes in or around Irvine are ready to showcase their chilling displays. You can also submit your haunt if you want to show off the decorations at your Irvine Pacific home.

Enjoy Fall-O-Ween at Heritage Hill Historical Park 

Celebrate all that fall has to offer at Heritage Hill Historical Park’s Fall-O-Ween event in Lake Forest. October 14-16 and 21-23 from 4:30-8:30 PM, the historic site will be open for families (and their leashed pets) to tour the decorated grounds while children can find their way through a hay maze and participate in a scavenger hunt. Costumes are encouraged, and while you’re at this free event, don’t forget to pose at one of many photo-friendly displays. 

Eat, Drink and Be Scary

A new season of flavors is coming to Orange County this year, with delicious events and menus at some of your favorite local restaurants. Make a reservation at The Market Place, where Lazy Dog is offering a special Fall-O-Ween Beer Dinner from October 24-26. Seasonal food and drinks will be available as part of a four-course meal, but spots are limited, so book soon. Those who enjoy beer tasting may be interested in Boo Ha Ha Oktoberfest at the OC Fairgrounds on Saturday, October 29, from 7-10pm. Anyone ages 21+ can attend and enjoy spirits from some of the nation’s top breweries, along with live performances. Looking for an elevated autumn dining experience? Flemings Steakhouse at Fashion Island is currently offering a three-course seasonal meal, the Filets of Fall. Make a reservation to experience their special menu items, offered now through the end of the year. 

Host a Movie Night

Cielo Portola Springs

What better way to utilize the flexible spaces in your home than with a seasonal-themed movie night?  Great Rooms at Highland or the flexible loft spaces at Cielo in Portola Springs offer the perfect place to sprawl out with a blanket and enjoy your favorite family-friendly scary movie. Prepare a few simple Halloween themed snacks to amplify the evening.

When you live in the city of Irvine, recreational activities are plentiful and easy to find, especially this time of year. These are just a few fun activities to get you started this fall season, and with candy, costumes and loved ones, you are sure to create lasting memories for the entire family. It is the perfect time of year to find a home in Irvine.