~ Natalia Radcliffe ~
Halloween is just a few days away! The spooky season is almost over. What better to end the month than by doing something Halloween themed? Most Halloween events go through the end of October, so if you are looking for a last minute adventure on Saturday, we have some ideas for you!
Best of all, all these places are about an hour’s or less drive away from Prospector Ranch, so if you are staying with us in one of our Airbnbs for the weekend (we have a historic Conestoga covered wagon, a vintage 1972 Airstream, or a rustic comfy Safari tent!), you don’t have to drive far.
Taking place at King Gillette Ranch in Calabasas, this is about a 30 minute drive from Prospector Ranch. It’s a family friendly event, something people of all ages can explore and enjoy. The highlight of the event is walking along about a mile long trail that is completely decked out in lights, carved pumpkins of all shapes and sizes, and Halloween decorations galore. It’s a photographer’s paradise. In addition to meandering along the trail, there is also a spookeasy where you enjoy some festive drinks, and food trucks for some tasty food.
Some new things this year are unique lantern and pumpkin works of art that you can see while you are walking along the trail, as well as attending a carnival! Called Jack’s Carnival, this features 10 rides and attractions, various carnival games, and of course, the opportunity to get some tasty treats. Admission is included with your ticket but if you want to go on the rides or experience the attractions, you must purchase an individual carnival wristband or single ride ticket. Single ride tickets are only available onsite.
Ticket prices range from $34.50 to $83.14 depending on the day you go and the time slot you select. If you want to park at the venue, you will also need to purchase a parking pass, which is $15.98 for a general parking pass, and $49.95 for a VIP parking pass. You can buy tickets online through their website.
Descanso Gardens is about a 45 minute to an hour drive from Prospector Ranch, and it has a Halloween themed event all through October, called Carved. This is also a family-friendly event, with something for everyone. It occurs after the sun goes down, when you can enjoy the gardens all decked out in Halloween themed art and decorations, and lights. It truly turns into a spooky wonderland, the sights are spectacular.
In addition to exploring the gardens, you can also enjoy tasty snacks and drinks, both alcoholic and non alcoholic. If you want a more substantive meal, you can grab a bite to eat at the Farmhouse restaurant.
If you decide to go on Halloween, there are some special activities you can participate in. For example, from 6-8pm, you can participate in a mushroom forage trick-or-treat, exploring a miniature pumpkin patch (you can pick the tiny pumpkin that speaks to you!) or decorate a trick-or-treat bag at a craft station. From 8-10pm you will be able to enjoy some music in the Oak Grove part of the property, dancing your heart away.
Costumes are encouraged on Halloween, but it’s asked to keep face-obscuring masks and fake weapons at home.
For members, ticket prices are $22–$45 for adults, and $12–$30 for children (aged 2-12). For non-members, tickets are $29–$52 for adults, and $19–$37 for (aged 2-12). Children under 2 get in for free!
You can buy tickets online through their website.
Background photo by Marc-R2 on Pixabay.com
