Temps may still be in the 80s and 90s, but there’s no denying that autumn is here. So grab that pumpkin spice latte, throw a log on the fire pit and let these fall events help get you in the spirit.
Celebrate the fall season with Descanso Gardens and their Carved harvest event in the Camellia Forest. Thousands of pumpkins line the walk, and visitors can stroll through the glow-in-the-dark experience, Rhizome, and see a special Día de los Muertos altar installation. Families also can enjoy harvest-themed events such as a maze through the picturesque rose gardens, red-and-orange foliage and fall-themed food and beverages. Oct. 6-29, 6PM, 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge, 818.949.4200, descansogardens.org
Enjoy the silver screen under the autumn sky while sitting in Los Angeles’ historic Hollywood Forever Cemetery. One of L.A.’s most diverse dynamic cultural centers, this site offers screenings of classic films in its open field, with some of this fall’s screenings including “The Devil Wears Prada,” “The Goonies" and "Scarface.” Come early to jam out with a live DJ who will mix music before and after screenings. A perfect event for the entire family, be sure to bring picnic blankets and snacks. 6000 Santa Monica Blvd., Hollywood, 323.827.8259, cinespia.org
Get in touch with your roots or experience a new culture at the Day of the Dead. Hosted by the Hollywood Forever Cemetery, learn about this historic holiday through the hundreds of altars created by and for the community–celebrating those who have passed into the Land of the Dead. Oct. 28, 9AM, 6000 Santa Monica Blvd., Hollywood, 323.469.1181, ladayofthedead.com
Trek through trees bathed in light and color at Descanso Gardens’ Enchanted Forest of Light. One part night walk, one part art installation and two parts magic, the Enchanted Forest of Light offers a unique way to experience the gardens. First, revel in the incredible lights of the Ancient Forest. Then, head to the stained glass town built by sculptor Tom Fruin and gaze upon the swirling installations by HYBYCOZO. All of this and more can be found on this one-mile walk. Nov. 19 to Jan. 7, 5:30PM; 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge, 818.949.4200, descansogardens.org
Join Irvine Park Railroad in their harvest celebration with tons of activities for visitors to enjoy. Ride around the park on a miniature train or a wagon while you decide which pumpkins to buy before taking it to the decorating booth. Children can race mini John Deere racers and try their hand at carnival games like the pumpkin ring toss and bank-a-ball. Stop by on Sept. 23 to catch the award ceremony for The Great Pumpkin Weigh-Off and pick up a giant pumpkin for yourself! Through Oct. 31, Weekdays 10AM to 5PM, Weekends 8AM to 6PM, 1 Irvine Park Road, Orange, irvineparkrailroad.com
Experience a unique play on Oktoberfest at Santa Anita Park with traditional elements such as Bavarian beers and live music and entertainment. Santa Anita also gives Oktoberfest a unique spin with their horse races that take place all throughout the event. Suit up for the costume contest, cornhole, musical chairs and more. Oct. 14-15 & 21-22, 285 W. Huntington Drive, Arcadia, 626.574.7223, santaanita.com
Visit Underwood Family Farms through October for their giant Fall Harvest Event, where the farm is converted into a giant pumpkin patch complete with wagon rides, corn mazes, a pumpkin house, wooden play areas and Farmer Craig’s Chicken Show. Visit on the weekends to see pig races, live music, demonstrations, animal shows and more. Each weekend has a different theme, ranging from Farm Country to Wild West. Be sure to go back and experience them all. Through Oct. 31, 9AM, 3370 Sunset Valley Road, Moorpark, 805.529.3690, underwoodfamilyfarms.com
Photography by: Jon Tyson/Unsplash
