Halloween Events in Santa Monica: What to Do This October
You don’t have to go far to find something different to do this Halloween season. From a free opera screening at the Santa Monica Pier to family activities and a classic horror film in Ocean Park, these upcoming events offer a few ways to get out and explore the local community.
LA Opera’s Carmen at the Santa Monica Pier
Saturday, October 17 | Pre-show activities at 4 p.m., broadcast at 6 p.m.
Watch LA Opera’s Carmen on the big screen with a live broadcast at the Santa Monica Pier! This new production brings Spanish Gothic flair to the classic story of passion, jealousy, and a dangerous love triangle, featuring familiar favorites like the “Toreador Song” and “Habanera.”
The fun begins at 4 p.m. with family-friendly crafts, balloon art, caricature portraits, face painting, cornhole, and live performances by local artists. Food vendors and additional activities will also be available before the broadcast begins at 6 p.m.
Admission is free, and all ages are welcome. Bring blankets, low lawn chairs, cushions, and a picnic to enjoy during the show. Sweaters and jackets are recommended for the evening by the water. Click here for RSVP details.
Ghosts of the Miles: Festival of Memories
Saturday, October 24 | 12–3 p.m.
The historic Miles Memorial Playhouse gets a Halloween makeover with Ghosts of the Miles: Festival of Memories. This event invites families to explore the playhouse, enjoy lighthearted Halloween activities, and interact with the show’s cast and performers in a welcoming daytime setting.
Supported by Santa Monica’s Art of Recovery Program, this free event is open to all ages and is especially suited to families with young children. Click here for more details.
For those looking for a more immersive experience, the event is presented alongside Ghosts of the Miles: Historical Haunt, an evening experience for guests ages 16 and older. Designed as an after-hours tour of the historic playhouse, the production offers a spookier way to explore the venue. Tickets available here.
Not-So-Haunted House at the Main Library
Saturday, October 24 | 2–3 p.m.
For a Halloween outing that’s more festive than frightening, head to the Main Library for its Not-So-Haunted House. Designed for families, this afternoon event features seasonal craft stations, a spooky-but-not-too-scary Storytime, games, and other Halloween activities.
Kids are welcome to dress up in their favorite costumes, making this a fun opportunity to celebrate the season in a relaxed, family-friendly environment. The event takes place in the Youth Activity Room at the Main Library.
Little Shop of Horrors: Film Screening and Discussion
Wednesday, October 28 | 6–8 p.m.
Movie lovers can celebrate Halloween with a screening of Little Shop of Horrors, the 1960 horror-comedy classic, followed by a discussion with Beverly Gray, author of Roger Corman: Blood-Sucking Vampires, Flesh-Eating Cockroaches, and Driller Killers.
The screening pairs a cult-favorite film with a discussion of filmmaker Roger Corman and his influence on low-budget horror cinema. It’s a great option for film enthusiasts and anyone interested in the history of the genre.
The screening is supported by the Friends of the Santa Monica Public Library.
Exploring local events is a great way to get to know your neighborhood and enjoy everything the community has to offer. At Roque & Mark, we believe that feeling at home extends beyond your front door, and discovering the places, events, and traditions around Santa Monica is part of what makes living here special. Check event websites before heading out for the latest information on registration, tickets, parking, and schedule changes.