Is the event suitable for very young children?

Yes, the event features family-friendly activities designed specifically with young children in mind.

Are costumes required?

Costumes are encouraged but not required—come dressed comfortably for the activities you want to enjoy.

Is there an admission fee?

Details on costs vary by year; check the History Park website or booking link for current pricing.

What safety measures are in place for COVID-19?

The event follows local health guidelines to ensure visitor safety, including distancing during activities and frequent sanitizing.

Can I bring my own treats for my children?

Personal treats are allowed, though many treat stations will provide candy during trick-or-treating.

Are pets allowed in History Park during the event?

Pets are generally not permitted to maintain a safe and clean environment for all visitors.

Explore Family-Friendly Halloween Fun at History Park San Jose | Events

San Jose, California, comes alive each fall at History Park with its Children’s Halloween Haunt, a perfect blend of spooky excitement and family-friendly fun. Located at 635 Phelan Ave, this unique event invites visitors of all ages to engage with the seasonal spirit while exploring a vivid slice of local history. History Park is an open-air museum that preserves San Jose's past through restored buildings and heritage demonstrations, offering a backdrop both educational and atmospheric for this annual tradition.

This Halloween experience is tailored for families, with crafts and engaging activities designed to entertain kids while providing a safe environment for celebrating. Walk through historic houses transformed into inviting trick-or-treat stops, where Halloween cheer is abundant but never overwhelming. One standout feature this year is the Sugar Skull workshop led by Elizabeth McCarthy, which introduces children to both the artistry and cultural significance of these colorful symbols, connected to Día de los Muertos traditions.

As the afternoon shifts to dusk, guests are treated to the Halloween Haunt Light Show, a dazzling display that creates an immersive spectacle using lighting effects to enhance the park’s vintage architecture and seasonal décor. This show offers a memorable way to cap off an afternoon of festivities, combining history and Halloween flair in a way that’s uniquely San Jose.

What makes this event special is how it blends the local heritage preserved by History Park with contemporary community celebrations. As a venue, History Park stands out because it enables visitors to explore more than just the holiday—it’s a doorway into San Jose’s cultural evolution. Families visiting the event can incorporate a stroll through the park’s other historical exhibits, deepening their appreciation for the area’s past.

The Halloween Haunt provides a safe, welcoming setting ideal for young explorers and their families seeking engaging activities tied to the season without the dark thrills of traditional haunted attractions. It perfectly suits those wanting a daytime adventure with educational value, creativity in crafts, and a festive atmosphere that respects diverse cultural traditions.

By visiting History Park for the Children’s Halloween Haunt, travelers combine an outdoor educational experience with fun and seasonal celebration, making it a standout option for autumn visits to San Jose. Whether you're local or passing through, it’s a chance to partake in a community event that honors both history and Halloween’s playful spirit.