San Diego Family October 2023

Schools throughout San Diego County can also collect candy as a fundraiser for their school and will receive $1 per pound of candy collected. For more info email us: schoolrep@TheSuperDentists.com

pumpkin

On

Nine-year-old Maya of Rancho Peñasquitos strikes a pose as Wednesday Addams in preparation for Halloween. Turn to page 10 to see her family’s awesome costumes over the years.

Cover photo: All Colors Photography

Go

Scan the QR code to see Maya’s dance moves from the Wednesday Addams Rave’N Dance scene.

Photo credit: Mikeh Monroy Photography

Chula Vista Pediatric 397 E St., Ste. A, Chula Vista, CA 91910

Phone: 619-425-9930

Otay Lakes Pediatric

2452 Fenton St., Ste.104, Chula Vista, CA 91914

Phone: 619-271-7778

San Marcos Pediatric 555 S Rancho Santa Fe Rd., Ste. 101, San Marcos, CA 92078

Phone: 760-510-6750

SanDiegofamily.com

on the web

Get to know SanDiegoFamily.com, where you’ll discover these articles and a plethora of awesomeness for parents.

Resources: Education Directory

• Raising Avid Readers

• Homework Help: Apps and Tutoring Services

Things to Do: Seasonal Happenings

• Halloween Party Games for Kids

• Spooky Fun: No-Carve Pumpkins

• How to “Boo” the Neighbors

We’ve been BOO’d!

Happy Halloween!

WIN THIS!

To enter these contests, visit SanDiegoFamily.com, go to “Contests,” then “This Month’s Contests.”

Includes free printables!

Casa de Bandini is North County’s go-to Mexican restaurant for all things “fiesta!” Regularly voted one of San Diego’s most family-friendly restaurants, Casa de Bandini draws people of all ages to The Forum Carlsbad for its award-winning Mexican cuisine, giant margaritas, vibrant dining rooms and live Latin music. It’s sure to be a big hit with your family. Enter for your chance to win a $100 gift card to Casa de Bandini. Contest ends Oct. 31. www.SanDiegoFamily.com

• Art with Alyssa: Día de los Muertos Nichos

Can’t find what you’re looking for on our website? Enter key words in the search bar and browse our articles.

Follow Us:

Embrace the spirit of the season at the Carlsbad Pumpkin Patch & Fall Festival, located at the Carlsbad Strawberry Fields (Cannon Rd & I-5). Find the perfect pumpkins for carving or decorating. Kids can challenge their wits in the twisting Corn Maze or share precious moments with fluffy friends in the Petting Zoo, featuring sheep, goats, and rabbits. Take in autumn scenes on a tractor ride or walk through the Marigold fields and capture family memories with stunning photo ops at every turn. For teens and adults craving spine-tingling thrills, visit the Haunted Corn Maze, open October 6 (Fridays and Saturdays only) from 7-10 pm. Enter to win a family 4-pack of general admission tickets to the Carlsbad Pumpkin Patch & Fall Festival. Contest ends at noon on Oct. 6.

Photo credit: Alyssa Navapanich

Join us for our 3rd annual Pumpkin Patch!

Enjoy the many activities on our farm. Fun for all ages!

September 29th - October 31st

Fridays 2-8pm, Saturday-Sundays 10am-8pm

$5 per person, ages 2 and under are free.

• Different varieties of pumpkins

• Pick your own sunflowers - $2 per stem

• Huge hay maze with a scavenger hunt included with admission

• Tractor ride

• Paint your own pumpkin kit - $10

- Small pumpkin (3lbs or less)

- Pumpkin painting kit

- Dedicated painting space at the farm

• Say “hi” to our farm animals

• Enjoy some fresh Julian Apple Cider

• Enjoy your lunch at our shaded picnic tables

• Pets welcome!

Family Christmas Tree Farm 300 Pepper Dr, El Cajon, CA, 92021

Design

Cover photo: All Colors Photography

Editorial Guidelines

Find editorial guidelines at SanDiegoFamily.com (“Editorial” at the bottom of the home page). Submission does not guarantee publication. We reserve the right to edit all submissions.

Distribution Locations

Business

Business Manager

Larry Bay larry@SanDiegoFamily.com

Marketing Director

Michele Hancock michele@SanDiegoFamily.com

Accounting family@SanDiegoFamily.com

Circulation

Sharon Bay sharon@SanDiegoFamily.com

Printing Publication Printers Corp.

Advertising/Marketing

Connect your business to families throughout San Diego County!

Advertising/Marketing Representatives

Tony Andrews

619-685-6977 • tony2018@SanDiegoFamily.com

Point Loma, Pacific Beach, La Jolla, North County Coastal

Giovanni Baldan

619-685-6987 • giovanni@SanDiegoFamily.com

South Bay, San Diego Downtown, Uptown

619-685-6970 • family@SanDiegoFamily.com

All other areas

San Diego Family Magazine is published monthly by San Diego Family Magazine LLC. Copyright 2023. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily the opinions of this publication.

SanDiegofamily.com Member of Distribution Audited by

These are challenging times for a lot of people in our community. That’s why SDG&E offers FERA

discount program for households of three or more who are struggling to pay bills. Even if you’ve never qualified for assistance before, you may be eligible now. Applying is quick, easy and completely confidential.

Learn

Autumn Bliss

Fall is my favorite season! Cooler temperatures (hopefully), day trips to Julian, fall festivities, pumpkin treats and the launch of artisan crafts and maker faire season. This month is the Bernardo Winery Arts & Crafts Fair, the Harvest Festival in Del Mar and Queen Bee Market in San Marcos. I’m giddy just thinking about it!

Speaking of crafters and artisans, do you have children who love to tinker and create? Don’t miss our article “Maker Minded: Raising DIY Kids” on p. 18 for awesome tips on how to support and encourage would-be artists, architects and designers. Does your child’s school offer an arts program or maker space to support creative activities? With last year’s passing of Prop 28, it might be more promising this year. Flip to p. 14 to read about the arts funding now available at all California schools. Ask your school how their funds are being used.

I’m excited about a two-part series from our “Parenting with Purpose” columnist, Jody Cates, that delves into the importance of teaching kids to care. This month Jody covers why and how to teach self-care and caring for family. Next month, we learn how caring for others is a natural and necessary extension of the process.

We offer a bushel of fall fun in this issue. You’ll find pumpkin patches, fall festivals, Halloween events, Día de los Muertos celebrations and more. If you get overwhelmed, use our checklist on p. 30 to help simplify your family’s priorities. I added “Plan a fall weekend getaway” to the list because I often hear moms ask, “Where can I vacation with my family that isn’t too far?” I recently returned from a fabulous weekend at Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort in Dana Point—and it only took 45 minutes to get there. Whatever activities you choose this month, here’s to a happy fall, ya’ll!

Lisa Gipson Managing Editor

Main Office: 1475 Sixth Avenue, Fifth Floor, San Diego, CA 92101

Phone: 619-685-6970 Fax: 619-685-6978

Email: family@SanDiegoFamily.com

Mission Statement

To enhance the quality of life for San Diego County families by providing information and resources that support the importance and pleasure of parenting.

Our San Diego Families

The Patel Family of Rancho Peñasquitos loves Halloween! For the last eight years cover kid Maya (9), along with her mom Kiran, dad Duran and brother Dylan (13), have raised the bar with their themed family costumes.

Last year they dressed as zombies in Michael Jackson’s hit music video, Thriller. They even made a family dance video!

The Patel family painted themselves gold to become sports trophies. So clever!

Shiloh Colleen

Alex Gonzalez Megan Long

Their superhero family photo was taken in 2020 when Maya’s grandfather (Superman) was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Sadly, he passed away in 2021.

Short & Sweet Lisa Gipson

Share your photos with us!

Does your family volunteer together?

We’d love to see photos of your family out supporting the community in various ways. For a chance to be featured in our November issue, email photos and the info below to editor@sandiegofamily.com by Friday, Oct. 6.

• First name of everyone in photo

• Ages of kids in photo

• Description of where photo was taken and/or what volunteer service is being performed

• Area of San Diego County your family lives

Editor’s Picks

SoCal mom and travel writer, Shelly Rivoli, helps families plan their next outdoor adventures and explorations with her book Hiking with Kids Southern California: 45 Great Hikes for Families. The book includes maps, photos, tips and details that provide guidance to the best hikes with kids (from toddlers to teens) in bucket list destinations such as the Southern Sierra, Central Coast, California Deserts, Los Angeles, San Diego County and surrounding areas.

Bridget Thoreson’s The Unofficial Hocus Pocus Cookbook for Kids is a collection of 50 fun and easy recipes inspired by (but not associated with) the classic Halloween movie. Most of the main dishes and sides are perfectly “normal,” yummy recipes with clever witchy names, but there’s plenty of hocus pocus under dessert/treats and drinks. Kids and Halloween enthusiasts will enjoy concocting In the Light of the Moon Pie, Fully Charged Crystal Candy, Luring Lavender Lemonade, Life Potion and much more.

Free Guided Hikes from the Canyoneers

The San Diego Natural History Museum Canyoneers announced their new season of free, guided hikes (60 between now and June), ranging from easy coastal trails to challenging desert treks. Private hikes for school groups also available. See the schedule and register at sdnat.org/canyoneers.

New Accessibility Documentation Needed for Universal Theme Parks

Universal Studios, which offers inclusive and accessible experiences, has a new process for guests with disabilities who need attraction queue accommodations. It starts with an IBCCES Individual Accessibility Card (IAC). If you’re planning a trip to Universal Studios Hollywood (or Orlando), be sure to obtain the IAC well in advance of your visit at www.accessibilitycard.org. Learn more at www.universalstudioshollywood.com/web/en/us/ accessibility-information.

Human Trafficking—it’s a Serious Issue in Our Community

Perhaps you’ve heard that human trafficking is an issue, but don’t know much about it, or didn’t realize it’s happening right here in San Diego County. It’s important to be informed. Learn more about human trafficking, report a tip, learn safety tips or find local services at www.humantraffickinghotline.org. If you or someone you know needs help, call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or text 233733.

Are You Eligible to Donate Blood?

Do you ever wonder if you’re eligible to donate blood? Visit www.RedCrossBlood.org and click on “Am I Eligible to Donate Blood?” to find out. There is currently a national blood shortage; donations of all types are urgently needed to ensure hospital patients receive critical medical care.

The 411 on Prop 28

How Will Your School Use its New Arts Funding?

After years of neglect—and arts and music programs on the chopping block due to budget constraints— there is finally good news for arts education in California schools. Thanks to the passing of Proposition 28 in 2022, arts education is now mandatory and more accessible in California schools, bringing cause for celebration! Read on

to understand the parameters and what the new funding might mean for your child’s school.

First, Why Does Art Education Matter?

Researchers have proven time and time again that arts and music programs are not only essential for child

development, but also mental health. Prop 28 backers and educators already know the funding will help foster creativity, critical thinking, problemsolving and emotional processing, while engaging both sides of the brain and promoting a holistic approach to learning.

Megan Woolsey

Jewish Montessori Preschool in La Jolla

• Children ages 9 months to 6 years

• Proven Montessori Method and Philosophy

• Learning through hands-on experience

• Integrated secular and Judaic curriculum

• Bilingual Program

• Skilled teachers, trained in early childhood development

• Secured, state-of-the-art facilities

Classes are filling up quickly! For more information, contact us at (858) 452-3030 or info@bethmontessori.com

Tel (858) 452-3030

• Fax (858) 777-9199 • www.bethmontessori.com

How Can Funds Be Used?

Prop 28 funds will be distributed according to enrollment, with 70 percent based on overall enrollment and 30 percent on Title 1 enrollment.

California schools must follow specific protocol, including:

• The funds can only be used on new arts programs during the school day; they can’t be used for afterschool programs.

• School districts may keep up to one percent of the funding for administrative costs.

• School districts with 500 or more students must spend at least 80 percent on salaries of certificated or classified employees responsible for arts instruction.

Join us today at sdgirlscouts.org/discover

Open Daily 9am–6pm

•Food•Games•Corn Maze•BounceLand

Pony Rides•Tractor Rides•Lavender Fields

•Marigold Fields•Photo Ops•Giant Pumpkins

•Sheep, Goat & Rabbit Petting Area

Haunted Corn Maze opens 10/6/23

Fridays and Saturdays 7pm-10pm

– Pet Friendly! –

Fun with friends. New adventures. Making a difference. You’re ready to go and Girl Scouts is ready for you. (760)

• The money can be used for arts education partnership programs in dance, media arts, music, theater, visual arts, painting, sculpture, photography, craft arts, graphic arts and design, computer coding, animation, music composition, ensembles, script writing, costume design, film and video.

• Twenty percent of the funds are allocated for art supplies and materials.

• Each school district determines how to spend their money (with input from each school site).

• The allocated annual amount must be spent within three years; if it isn’t used within that time, it goes back into the general fund.

How Are San Diego County School Districts Spending

Money?

San Diego County Office of Education Arts Coordinator Pauline Crooks

Beth Montessori adheres to the principles of Association Montessori International (AMI)

reiterates that Prop 28 funding must be used to supplement new programs with the goal of increasing arts education for students. It is estimated that San Diego County will create approximately 600 new full-time (or equivalent) teaching positions as a result of Prop 28.

“Several of our county school districts have hired arts educators,” says Crooks. “Much of the hiring is taking place at the elementary school level, where student access to arts education has been inconsistent across school sites and districts. Some districts are focusing on one or two arts disciplines, while others are incorporating new education in all five arts disciplines— dance, media arts, music, theater and visual arts.”

Alyssa Navapanich, a Lemon Grove elementary school art teacher, says that Prop 28 funds have allowed her small district to add staff to the art, music, PE and science team so students will receive more frequent arts programming.

“Due to the passing of Prop 28, we will see visual and performing arts programming grow more— and faster—than it has in decades,” says Navapanich. “I hope it will be one more reason for students to get excited about school and learning.”

Be sure to ask your child’s parentteacher association (PTA), principal or school district how much Prop 28 funding your school received and how the money is being used. For more information, visit the CDE website at www.cde.ca.gov/eo/in/ prop28artsandmusicedfunding.asp v

Megan Woolsey is a writer and editor for magazines and marketing companies. She lives in Carlsbad with her husband, teenage triplets and their older sister.

Maker-Minded: Raising DIY Kids

Do you have little ones who build forts for pets out of craft materials and cardboard boxes? Or kids who enjoy fixing electronic gadgets when they break? Are you raising entrepreneurialminded tweens whose ideas could make them the next inventor, app creator or “Shark Tank” winner? If any of this sounds familiar, you probably have makers “on your hands.”

What is the Maker Lifestyle All About?

(DIY) individuals of any age who create things using methods such as robotics, electronics, metalworking, woodworking, artistry and crafting. While some create in designated maker spaces, others tinker at home or in the garage.

“Everyone is a [potential] maker,” says Irm Diorio, former executive director of a maker space. “It’s about finding what really inspires you—gardening, baking, sewing, anything you would build with your hands.” Maker projects can be fun or

functional. “It’s all about letting your creativity take you for a ride.”

The Movement: The Maker Movement picked up steam with the launch of “Make” magazine in 2005 and is thriving today. Maker education embraces the concept that learning is best by doing, often called experiential or project-based learning.

“With affordable access to 3D printers and computers, technology is often part of the Maker Movement, but it doesn’t have to be,” Diorio says.

The People: Makers are do-it-yourself — continued on page 18 —

Janeen Lewis

Local Maker-Minded Activities for All Ages

Check with local museums (New Children’s Museum, TheNat, Fleet Science Center, San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum, etc.) to see if they have upcoming maker exhibits or classes.

Watch art in action at Spanish Village Art Center in Balboa Park, where about 200 local artists have working studios. Free to visit and observe.

Take a workshop at San Diego Craft Collective, which offers classes for kids, teens, adults or families.

Attend local maker markets for inspiration. Upcoming markets include:

Queen Bee Market

Oct. 28 & 29, 10 am–4 pm

CSUSM, San Marcos www.thequeenbeemarket.com

San Diego Made Holiday Market

Nov. 18 & 19, 11 am–5 pm

Julep Venue, Little Italy www.sandiegomade.org/markets

Makers Arcade Holiday Fair

Dec. 2 & 3, 10 am–5 pm

Broadway Pier, Downtown San Diego www.makersarcade.com/holidayfair-2023

The Space: Maker spaces are community spaces and businesses where adults can design, build and work (such as San Diego Made Factory and San Diego CoLab) or where kids can explore, discover and create. Many offer classes for adults or youth and host events for the public.

DIYers often find their tribe at maker spaces, as they bring creative and innovative thinkers together, offering each other collaboration, encouragement and expertise as they work on projects or take classes. Many maker spaces house equipment such as 3D printers, laser cutters, wood lathes, saws, welding equipment, sewing machines and other tools that may be difficult to store at home.

Maker spaces are becoming popular in schools where parents, teachers and administrators want to include handson projects and a creative outlet in the student learning process.

How to Support Maker-Minded Kids

How to help children flourish being a DIYer depends on their ages. Here are suggestions to consider as kids grow.

Preschoolers

• Encourage natural curiosities, inclinations or interests.

• Start coding with and without technology (unplugged coding).

• Give kids junior-sized tools in a small tool box, a child-sized sewing machine or real gardening tools that are small enough to fit their hands.

• Introduce sophisticated vocabulary (don’t dumb it down).

Elementary Students

• Provide kids a maker space filled with a variety of tools to inspire creativity.

• Volunteer to start a maker space at your child’s school.

• Create an invention station where kids can access supplies anytime. Find directions for San Diego Family’s DIY STEM kits at www.sandiegofamily.com/ for-the-kids/family-science/makestem-kits-for-kids.

• Use the cool “stuff spinner” at PBS Kids Design Squad Global to discover what to build with materials kids have on hand. Visit www.pbskids.org/designsquad.

• Participate in a science fair or student maker faire (or attend one).

• Visit www.sandiego.gov/publiclibrary/idea to see what programs are offered at eight San Diego City Library IDEA Labs. Resources vary by location.

• Provide a coding robot kids can program with a tablet.

• Take a class at SoCal Maker’s Market.

Middle School Students

• Encourage an apprenticeship (or job shadowing) with a family member or friend who is an expert in a field of interest (such as computer science, jewelry making, auto mechanic, fashion designer, seamstress or architect).

• Plan to attend a STEM, design or engineering magnet high school.

• Join a robotics club.

• Give kids electronic boards such as Raspberry Pi or Arduino to experiment and create their own products.

• Introduce kids to conductive thread so they can make clothes that light up.

• Experiment with an invention kit from Makey Makey: www.makeymakey.com. v

Janeen Lewis is a nationally published writer, teacher and mom to Andrew and Gracie.

How to Tame the Homework Headache

After a busy day of learning, working, afterschool activities, household chores and errands, everyone is ready to relax when they get home. But there’s always homework that needs to be addressed. Before homework time turns into a battle of wills (or tears), try these practical tips to keep the peace.

Be present.

Meaning, be focused and engaged without distraction. I know this is a challenge. Parents have so much to do and often multitask (dinner is not going to cook itself, right?). It’s easy to justify responding to texts or making calls while kids are doing homework, but this also robs parents of being present and robs kids of the focused support they may need. If your child struggles to complete homework alone, your availability can make a big impact before frustration takes over.

Read side by side.

Most kids are expected to read at home. Show them that reading is a priority by having everyone participate in family reading time. Grab a novel, magazine or something for work and sit down and

read alongside the kids. (And no, social media doesn’t count.) Even little ones can sit with a stack of books to look through. Modeling good reading habits goes a long way in teaching kids how important reading is.

Know what makes your child tick.

Some parents insist doing homework right when kids get home is best, but that may not work for every child. Some kids need time and space to decompress from the busy school day before being expected to study more. Half an hour for snack and outside play may work wonders. Try out different timeframes and scenarios to see what works best for your children. Once you find what clicks, try to be consistent.

Wave the white flag.

While it is important to teach responsibility and have a daily homework routine, sometimes homework is overwhelming and it’s necessary to surrender. We’re not talking about supporting excuses for not wanting to do homework.

Recognize when homework is too challenging for a child to work on

independently. Often this indicates that more instruction is needed in the classroom. Instead of forcing an assignment that is truly too difficult, talk through it with your child and if it can’t be resolved, email the teacher.

Communicate.

Homework is an opportunity to practice things learned in class and provide feedback to teachers about how much children grasp. Most teachers would rather know when a student is struggling at home than have a child in tears. They certainly don’t want parents completing assignments—that is no help at all. Having open communication with teachers—and encouraging children to communicate—makes homework a better experience for everyone.

Homework can be tricky after a long day, but for most kids, it’s a reality of life. Being present for your children and helping them set good homework habits will serve them well in years to come. v

Rebecca Hastings is a former teacher and freelance writer who is passionate about authenticity, faith and family.

Rebecca Hastings

Inspiring curious minds to think deeply & live courageously.

Founded in 1980, The Rhoades School provides an academically advanced education for San Diego’s gifted students. Our Preschool prepares young children to be lifelong learners, and Lower School emphasizes personal attention and a robust curriculum. Our rigorous Middle School prepares advanced learners for success in High School and beyond.

Parenting with Purpose

Jody Lee Cates

Teaching Kids to Care

The unexpected power of essential life skills

This is part one of a two-part series. Pick up the November issue to learn how teaching kids to care has a ripple effect on family and community.

It’s no secret that learning essential life skills benefits kids. According to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychology, children who are responsible for age-appropriate tasks exhibit higher self-esteem and are better equipped to deal with frustration, adversity and delayed gratification.

But there’s another bonus for parents and caregivers who teach and intentionally include children in the necessary tasks of daily life. Whether it’s making a bed, preparing a meal or feeding a pet, contributing to family life creates a sense of belonging that strengthens family bonds and teaches kids a critical key to success: how to care for themselves and others. Discover the unexpected impact of teaching kids to care through essential life skills.

Create a caring culture. Thinking of life skills as ways to care for one another helps children understand why tasks are important, the benefits of doing them, and how their contributions matter.

Richard Rende, a developmental psychologist and author of Raising CanDo Kids, encourages parents to think of daily family tasks as an opportunity to create a caring culture at home. “Talking about chores as caretaking activities—ways in which every family member helps take care of each other, as opposed to drudgery—sets a family climate that encourages kids to follow their instincts to help.”

Give kids real-life practice. Having real-life opportunities to practice life skills sends a powerful message. It tells kids that parents believe they are capable and offers them a chance to feel a sense of competence and accomplishment.

“We want our daughters to be capable team members in our family,” says Cardiff mom, Carrie Barrett. “Even at young ages, they are proving that they are more than capable and willing.”

Barrett created a chart of new skills for her three girls (ages 4, 5 and 7) to learn before school started. “We wanted to use the summer as an opportunity to

teach them basic, important, necessary life skills with the downtime we had,” she says. “Tasks included learning to scramble an egg, memorizing both parent’s phone numbers and our home address, folding and putting away their laundry, properly ordering at a restaurant and learning how to talk on the phone.”

Teaching life skills doesn’t have to be complicated. Identify skills you would like your children to learn, set some goals, then provide lots of opportunities to practice (with your guidance) until you both feel confident with the results.

Focus on benefits. When teaching a new skill, focus not only on how to accomplish the task, but also the benefits that come with its completion. Try to connect the task or skill with the caring outcome. For example, putting away toys means they won’t be lost or broken—a benefit to your child when she wants to play with them again. Washing and folding laundry means everyone has fresh, clean clothes to wear.

Work on new tasks with children until they can do them independently. Talk about how much you enjoy spending time together while taking care of daily responsibilities.

Celebrate when your child masters a new skill and remember to reinforce the benefit. For example, you might say, “When you greet our guests at the front door, they feel welcome and happy to be here.”

Work on categories of caring. A quick search online delivers a mindboggling list of what life skills kids should know by a certain age, but a checklist approach doesn’t consider the different needs, personalities and abilities of various kids and families. Breaking down essential life skills into categories of caring might help. Below are examples of life skills for kids sorted by caring for belongings, caring for self, caring for family and interacting with others. Choose one or two skills in each category to tackle when you think your child is ready. Once she masters a skill, move on to another in that category.

Caring for belongings:

• Put things away when finished with them—toys for younger children, books, bags, sports equipment, etc. for older children

• Make beds and keep rooms tidy (not perfect, but cared for)

• Sort, fold and put away laundry

Caring for self:

• Bathe, brush teeth, get dressed

• Pack lunch for school

• Able to stay home alone for short periods of time

• Memorize home address and parent’s phone numbers

Caring for family:

• Help with meal planning and preparation

• Set and clear table before and after meals

• Wipe tables and counters

• Load and unload dishwasher

• Help with grocery shopping and putting food away

• Take out trash

• Take care of pets

Interacting with others (the first steps in learning to care for others):

• Greet guests

• Order food at a restaurant

• Talk on the phone

• Resolve disagreements with siblings and friends

• Learn personal safety and how to ask for help

By approaching essential life skills as ways of caring, kids learn that their contributions matter. They grow secure in their role within the family and confident in their ability to make a difference. Parents who teach these important skills as part of daily life help kids discover the joy and satisfaction that come from caring for themselves and others. v

Jody Lee Cates is a local mom and award-winning writer who blogs about healthy relationships at  www.jodyleecates.com.

Stay & Play Family Fun

OCTOBER Halloween Safety Month • Breast Cancer Awareness Month • National Apple Month

Still looking for last month’s events? Check out the digital edition of our September issue at SanDiegoFamily.com

FREE

The Super Dentists Spooktacular

Costumes, carnival games, jumpies and more. Oct. 28, 11 am–2 pm. 2226 Otay Lakes Rd., Chula Vista. www.thesuperdentists.com

Don’t forget to call to confirm dates, times and admission prices.

sunday | 1

Kids FREE San Diego. Restaurants, attractions, museums and more offer families with kids 12 & under complimentary attraction and museum admission and more. Through Oct. 31. Details: www.sandiego.org/kidsfree

The Westgate Hocus Pocus Tea. Includes take-home gift for kids 12 & under. 12:30–2:30 pm. $95. 1055 2nd Ave. www.westgatehotel.com

SD International Dragon Boat Show. Crews paddling boats decorated with an ornately carved dragon head at the bow and a tail in the stern. 8 am–4 pm. Tecolote Shores Mission Bay, 1500 E. Mission Bay Dr. www.sddbt.org

Beachside Fall Fest at Belmont Park. Free scavenger hunt and trick-or-treating Sundays, 5 pm. Through Oct. 31. Kids free all month with adult admission. 3146 Mission Blvd. www.belmontpark.com/fallfest

Super Hero Obstacle Race. Parents and kids team up to conquer obstacle challenges. 8–10 am. $25, 4 & up. Alga Norte Community Park, 6565 Alicante Rd., Carlsbad. www.carlsbadca.gov

FREE La Mesa Oktoberfest. Oompa bands, German food and more. 12–8 pm. La Mesa Village. www.lamesaoktoberfest.org

Oktoberfest in El Cajon. Kids’ zone, games, music and more. Today & Oct. 6–8. Fri., 4–10 pm; Sat., 12–10 pm; Sun., 12–9 pm. $5–$15; under 21 free. 1017 S. Mollison Ave. www.germanclubsandiego.org

Halloween Spooktacular at SeaWorld. Candy, costumes and plenty of spooky surprises. Fri.–Sun., through Oct. 29. Interstate 5, exit SeaWorld Dr. Tickets: www.seaworldsandiego.com

HalGLOWeen. A skeleton band, scarecrow stilt performers, spider acrobats and more. Fri.–Sun. through Oct. 29. 9 am–9 pm. 11 & under free when accompanied by an adult admission. 2920 Zoo Dr., Balboa Park. www.sdzwa.org

The Count’s Halloween Spooktacular. Silly, not-too-spooky fun. Weekends through Oct. 29, 10 am–6 pm. 2052 Entertainment Cir., Chula Vista. www.sesameplace.com

Julian Autumn Jubilee. Hayride, petting zoo, activities and more. Weekends through Oct. 29. Saturdays, 10 am–5 pm & Sundays, 11 am–5 pm. Fort Cross, 4425 Hwy., 78, Santa Ysabel. Tickets: www.fortcross.com

Sunset Pier Walks. Scoop up plankton, dissect a squid and more. Select weekends through Dec. 10. $35. For ages 9 & up. Scripps Pier, Birch Aquarium at Scripps, 2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla. Reservations required: www.aquarium.ucsd.edu

Old Town Haunted Walking Tour. Explore Heritage Park, The Whaley House and more. Thurs.–Mon., through Oct. 28. 7 & 9 pm. $42. 2454 Heritage Park Row. www.hauntedsdoldtowntours.com

tuesday | 3

Step Right Up: Circus Trains. Explore the history of the world of circus. Tues.–Sun., 10 am–4 pm. Through Nov. 19. $9–$19.50. San Diego Model Railroad Museum, Balboa Park. www.sdmrm.org

wednesday | 4

Freight and Flora: A Garden Railway Exhibit. Transport back to the time when the Transcontinental Railroad first arrived in San Diego. Tues.–Fri., 10 am-4 pm. $9–$19.50; under 12 free. San Diego Model Railroad Museum, Balboa Park. www.sdmrm.org

Photo credit: Mikeh Monroy Photography

friday | 6

Ocean Beach Oktoberfest. Live music, activities and more. Today, 4–11:30 pm & tomorrow, 12–11:30 pm. $10. 5099 Newport Ave. www.oboktoberfest.com

“Top Gun: Maverick” Movie Night. Museum exhibits, movie and free popcorn. 6–10 pm. $15–$25; 2 & under free. San Diego Air & Space Museum, Balboa Park. www.sandiegoairandspace.org

Haunted Corn Maze. Fridays & Saturdays in Oct., 7–10 pm. Carlsbad Strawberry Fields, Cannon Rd. & I-15. www.carlsbadstrawberrycompany.com

“Welcome to Sleepy Hollow.” Familyfriendly musical. Through Oct. 29. Fri., 8 pm, Sat., 2 & 8 pm & Sun., 2 pm. $20–$50. Oceanside Theatre Company, Brooks Theater, 217 N. Coast Hwy. www.oceansidetheatre.org

Big Bear Oktoberfest. Bands, beer, food and more. Weekends through Nov. 4. Fri. 4–11 pm, Sat., 1–11 pm & Sun., 12–6 pm. Big Bear Convention Center, 42900 Big Bear Blvd. Tickets: www.bigbearevents.com

saturday | 7

Autumn Festival. Activities and entertainment. Sat. & Sun. through Oct. 29. 9 am–7 pm. 11 & under free when accompanied by an adult admission. Safari Park, 15500 San Pasqual Valley Rd., Escondido. www.sdzwa.org

Brick-or-Treat! Trick-or-treating, live shows and character meet and greets. Sat. & Sun. in Oct. LEGOLAND, One LEGOLAND Dr., Carlsbad. Tickets: www.legoland.com

Pumpkin Express. Train ride, pumpkin decorating, haunted train cars and more. Sat.–Sun. through Oct. 29, 10:30 & 11:45 am, 1:45 & 3 pm. $9.95–$24.95; 1 & under free. Pacific Southwest Railway Museum Campo Depot, 750 Depot St. www.psrm.org

FREE Pacific Beachfest. Family-friendly, music-packed event. 11 am–7 pm. Felspar to Thomas St. www.pacificbeachfest.org

Stockzilla! Mega Catfish stock event. Today & tomorrow, 9 am–5 pm. Permits: $6– $10. Parking, $7. Santee Lakes, 9310 Fanita Pkwy. www.santeelakes.com

Walk to End Alzheimer’s. 9 am. NTC Park at Liberty Station, 2455 Cushing Rd. Register: https://act.alz.org

FREE The La Jolla Art & Wine Festival. Fine art, interactive family fun and more. Today & tomorrow, 10 am–6 pm. Girard Ave. www.ljawf.com

Rosita’s Hispanic Heritage Celebration. Celebrate Rosita’s Mexican heritage and a breadth of Hispanic cultures. Sat.–Sun., through Oct. 15. Sesame Place, 2052 Entertainment Cir., Chula Vista. www.sesameplace.com

Scarecrow Contest. Design & build a scarecrow for display. 10 am–1 pm.

Parking, $10. Bates Nut Farm, 15954 Woods Valley Rd., Valley Center. www.batesnutfarm.biz

FREE Rendezvous in Poway. Walk back in time to the 1820–1890’s, pan for gold and more. Today, 10 am–4 pm & tomorrow, 10 am–2 pm. Old Poway Park, 14134 Midland Rd. www.poway.org

Haunted Harvest. Haunted hayride, ghost stories and more. Sat. nights in Oct. 7:30, 8 & 8:30 pm. $30. 4425 Hwy. 78, Santa Ysabel. www.fortcross.com

P UMPKIN PATCHES

FREE Pumpkin Station. Petting zoo, pumpkins, Ferris wheel and more. Through Oct. 31. Mission Valley, 1750 Camino Del Rio N. (Mon.–Thurs., 11 am–9 pm; Fri.–Sun., 9 am–9 pm); Del Mar, 15555 Jimmy Durante Blvd. (Sun.–Thurs., 9 am–7 pm; Fri.–Sat., 9 am–9 pm); National City, 3030 Plaza Bonita Rd. (Mon.–Fri., 1–9 pm; Sat.–Sun., 11 am–9 pm). www.pumpkinstation.com

FREE Pumpkin Station Farms. Train ride, corn maze, petting zoo and more. Fee for some activities. Rancho Bernardo, 13421 Highland Valley Rd. (9 am–6 pm through Oct. 12; Oct. 13–31, 9 am–7 pm) & Bonita, 5354 Sweetwater Rd. (9 am–6 pm through Oct. 12; Oct. 13–31, 9 am–9 pm). www.pumpkinstation.com

Family Christmas Tree Farm Pumpkin Patch. Pumpkins, tractor rides, hay maze and more. Through Oct. 31. Fri., 2–8 pm; Sat.–Sun., 10 am–8 pm. $5–$7. 300 Pepper Dr., El Cajon. www.familychristmastreefarm.com

Carlsbad Pumpkin Patch & Fall Festival. Corn maze, BounceLand and more. Open daily, 9 am–6 pm. $10; 5 & under free. Carlsbad

Strawberry Fields, Cannon Rd. & I-15. www.carlsbadstrawberrycompany.com

Julian Farm & Orchard

Pumpkin Patch  www.julianfarmandorchard.com

FREE Pumpkin Patch at Summers Past Farms

www.summerspastfarms.com

FREE Mountain Valley Ranch

Pumpkin Patch

www.facebook.com/mountainvalleyranch

FREE Goff Family

Pumpkin Patch

www.gofffamilypumpkinpatch.com

Oma’s Pumpkin Patch

www.omasfamilyfarm.com

Pumpkin Station

Calendar • October

FREE Mira Mesa Street Fair. Fun zone, live music and more. 10 am–5 pm. Camino Ruiz between New Salem & Mira Mesa Blvd. www.miramesatowncouncil.org

FREE Rods & Rails. Car & motorcycle show with live music, children’s activities and more. 9 am–5 pm. 2201 S. “A” St., Perris. www.socalrailway.org

Oktoberfest Fall Festival. Petting zoo, kids zone, magic and more. 12–8 pm. $10. Carlsbad Strawberry Company, 1050 Cannon Rd. www.rotaryoktoberfest.org

sunday | 8

FREE San Marcos Harvest Fest. Kids zone, live music and more. 9 am–5 pm. Along Via Vera Cruz between San Marcos Blvd. & Grand Ave. www.sanmarcoschamber.com

Science Club: Cosmic Explorations. Explore planets, stars and the upcoming solar eclipse. 1 pm–3 pm. $18. Fleet Science Center, Balboa Park. www.fleetscience.org

thursday | 12

Autumn Harvest Teas. A harvestthemed version of the classic tea. Through Oct. 16. 11:30 am, 1 & 2:30 pm. $12.95–$36.95. Julian Tea & Cottage Arts, 2124 Third St. Reservations required: www.juliantea.com

UltraStar Discount Thursdays. 50% off all movie tickets and popcorn. 7510 Hazard Center Dr. Showtimes: www.ultrastarmovies.com

friday | 13

Harvest Festival. Today & tomorrow, 10 am–5 pm; Oct. 15, 10 am–4 pm. $4–$9; 12 & under free. Del Mar Fairgrounds, 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd. www.harvestfestival.com

Fall Friday Festival. Kids crafts, straw maze, face painting and more. Today, Oct. 20 & 27; 3:30–6:30 pm. $2 activity tickets. Bates Nut Farm, 15954 Woods Valley Rd., Valley Center. www.batesnutfarm.biz

FREE Movies in the Park: “The Book of Life.” Starts at dusk. Nobel Park, 8810 Judicial Dr. www.summermoviesinthepark.com

saturday | 14

Howl-o-Ween Harvest Family Fest. Animal encounters, trick-or-treat stations, face painting and more. Today, Oct. 21, 28 & 29, 9 am–1 pm. $7–$13.75. Helen Woodward Animal Center, 6461 El Apajo, Rancho Santa Fe. www.animalcenter.org

Pumpkin Chuckin’. Launch your pumpkin from a catapult and more fun. 9 am–1 pm. $15–$25; 2 & under free. San Diego Air & Space Museum, Balboa Park. www.sandiegoairandspace.org

Family Night Halloween Party. Games, crafts, cake walk, costume contest and more. Wood House, 1148 Rock Springs Rd., San Marcos. Details: www.san-marcos.net

FREE Fall Fun Festival. Scarecrow contest, kids activities and more. 10 am–3 pm. Alta Vista Botanical Gardens, 1270 Vale Terrace Dr., Vista. https://altavistabotanicalgardens.org

KPBS Kids Event: Ready, Jet, Go. Explore the solar system with jet propulsion through interactive activities. 10 am–12 noon. $11.50. San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum, 320 N. Broadway, Escondido. www.sdcdm.org

FREE Block Party. Kid zone, games, skateboard exhibition and more. 12–8 pm. Downtown Vista. www.eventeny.com/ events/vistablockparty-7209/

Pumpkin Plunge. The Alga Norte Aquatic Center transforms into spooky fun with a floating pumpkin patch, bounce houses and more. 5–8 pm. $10. 6565 Alicante Rd., Carlsbad. www.carlsbadca.gov

sunday | 15

The Witches of the Westgate Tea. Enjoy tea in your most bewitching costume. Today & Oct. 20–22, 1–3:30 pm. $95. 1055 2nd Ave. www.westgatehotel.com

FREE Grand Avenue Festival. Kids crafts, food and more. 9 am–5 pm. Grand Ave. from Escondido Blvd. to Ivy St. www.downtownescondido.com

City Farmers Fall Festival. Contests, games and prizes. 9 am–4 pm. 3110 Euclid Ave. www.cityfarmersnursery.com

San Diego Wave Soccer. Cheer on our national women’s soccer team. 2 pm. Starting at $15. Snapdragon Stadium, 2101 Stadium Way. Tickets: www.sandiegowavefc.com

friday

| 20

FREE HauntFest on Main. Carnival rides, candy challenge activities and more. 4–9 pm. E. Main St. from Magnolia to Avocado, downtown El Cajon. www.hauntfest.org

Nat at Night. Explore the museum’s wonders after hours. 10 am–10 pm. $14–$24; 2 & under free. San Diego Natural History Museum, Balboa Park. www.sdnat.org

“Sleeping Beauty.” Characters from Puss ‘n Boots to Little Red Riding Hood gather to celebrate the birth of Princess Aurora. Today & tomorrow. $15-$65. Joan B. Kroc Theatre, 6611 University Ave. www.sandiegoballet.org

San Diego Gulls. Tonight & Oct. 27, 7 pm. Starting at $26. Pechanga Arena, 3500 Sports Arena Blvd.

www.sandiegogulls.com

Don’t forget to call to confirm dates, times and admission prices.

saturday | 21

FREE Fall Festival. Haunted house, crafts, pumpkin decorating, trunk-or-treat and more. 3–9 pm. Mira Mesa Senior Center, 8460 Mira Mesa Blvd.

www.d6nightmarket.com

Junior Science Club: Jack-o-Lantern Circuit Creations. Design and build lightup jack-o-lanterns using circuits, LED’s, engineering and creativity. 9–10:30 am & 11 am–12:30 pm. $18. Fleet Science Center, Balboa Park. www.fleetscience.org

Haunted Hangar Halloween Bash. Family-friendly activities, contests and more. 6–9 pm. $20; 3 & under free. USS Midway Museum, 910 N. Harbor Dr. www.midway.org

Breakfast with the Littlest Pumpkin. Come in costume and play games, win prizes and eat pancakes. San Marcos Community Center, 3 Civic Center Dr., San Marcos. Details: www.san-marcos.net

Antique Engine & Tractor Show. Kids games, scavenger hunts and more. Today, tomorrow, Oct. 28–29, 9 am–4 pm. $5–$8; under 6 free. Antique Gas & Steam Engine Museum, 2040 N. Santa Fe Ave., Vista. www.agsem.com

Hoot, Howl & Prowl. Meet the canyon’s wildlife (docents dressed in animal costumes) up close. 5:30 pm. $5. Blue Sky Ecological Reserve, 16275 Espola Rd., Poway. Register: www.poway.org

Demo Days: Spooky Science. Learn about your bones and shadows, make your own model skeleton and more. 10 am–2 pm. $19.95–$24.95. Fleet Science Center, Balboa Park. www.fleetscience.org

FREE “The Nightmare Before Christmas.” Today, Mira Mesa Community Park, 8575 New Salem St. & Oct. 28, Sweetwater Regional Park, 3218 Summit Meadows Rd., Bonita. Full schedule: www.summermoviesinthepark.com

Howl-o-Ween Doggie Costume Contest & Parade. 11 am–12 noon. Parking, $10. Bates Nut Farm, 15954 Woods Valley Rd., Valley Center. www.batesnutfarm.biz

FREE Halloween Carnival. Miramar Ranch Elementary School, 10770 Red Cedar Dr. Details: www.miramarranch.org

SDSU Aztec Football Home Games. Tonight vs. Nevada. Snapdragon Stadium, 2101 Stadium Way. Tickets: www.goaztecs.com

Ms. Smarty-Plants Goes Batty. Interactive show and trick-or-treating through Garden-Ghostly-Friendly Trails. 5:30–8 pm. $8–$12; 2 & under free. The Water Conservation Garden, 12122 Cuyamaca College Dr. W., El Cajon. www.thegarden.org

FREE Borrego Days. Kids zone, food and more. Today, 9:45 am–6 pm & tomorrow, 10 am–3 pm. Christmas Cir. Community Park, Palm Canyon Dr. www.borregodays.com

FREE Open Gardens. 10 am–12:30 pm. Olivewood Gardens & Learning Center, 2525 N. Ave., National City. www.olivewoodgardens.org

sunday | 22

FREE San Diego Family Fun Fest: Halloween. See advertisement.

FREE Waterfront Park Pumpkin Patch. Join First 5 San Diego and grab the perfect pumpkin for your jack-o-lantern. One free pumpkin per child. 11 am–2 pm. 1600 Pacific Hwy. www.sdparks.org

Costume Contest & Parade. Halloween treats and a tractor hayride. 9 am–1 pm. Parking, $10. Bates Nut Farm, 15954 Woods Valley Rd., Valley Center. www.batesnutfarm.biz

FREE Fallbrook Harvest Faire. Pony rides, pumpkin contests, scarecrows and more. 9 am–4 pm. Main Street. www.fallbrookchamberofcommerce.org

FREE Event for Families

SAN DIEGO FAMILY FUN FEST HALLOWEEN

Oct. 22 10 am -1 pm

Salvation Army Kroc Center Corner Zone 6845 University Ave, SD 92115

Join us for our fiendishly-fun Halloween celebration featuring enchanting activity stations for kids and phenomenal resources for parents.

Trick-or-treating • Costume Parade • Raffle

Halloween Crafts • Haunted Zipline • Dance Parties Inflatables & more

FREE SIGN UP!

Sign up for FREE tickets at SDFamilyHalloween2023.eventbrite.com

Event Partner

wednesday | 25

FREE Trunk-or-Treat. Candy, fun and more. 5–7:30 pm. Main St. & Magnolia Ave., El Cajon. www.cajonclassiccruise.org

Grammy Greats Unite. Featuring duets from Madama Butterfly and more with the SD Symphony. 7:30 pm. Starting at $20. Balboa Theatre, 868 Fourth Ave. www.sdopera.org

thursday

| 26

Oceans at Night. Guests 21 and older explore the aquarium in a new light, dance

to live music, play games and more. 6:30–9:30 pm. $27–$30. Birch Aquarium at Scripps, 2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla. www.aquarium.ucsd.edu

friday

| 27

Halloween Aglow. Celebrate the wonders and mysteries of the ocean after dark in a fun kid-friendly atmosphere, featuring live music, glow-themed costume contests and trick-or-treating through the aquarium. Today & tomorrow, 6–8:30 pm. $27–$30. Birch Aquarium, 2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla. Tickets: www.aquarium.ucsd.edu

Día de los Muertos

FREE Día de los Muertos. Dancing, familyfriendly fun and more. Oct. 21, 1–5 pm. Westfield Plaza Bonita, level 2 food court, 3030 Plaza Bonita Rd. www.westfield.com

FREE Oceanside Día de los Muertos Festival. Altars, chalk ceremony and more. Oct. 22, 10 am–5 pm. Downtown Oceanside. www.friendsofoceansidediadelosmuertos.org

Art & Spirit: Día de los Muertos. Create a personal ofrenda with a nicho box. Oct. 27, 5 pm. $25. Ages 21 & up. Center for the Arts, Escondido, 340 N. Escondido Blvd. www.artcenter.org

FREE Day of the Dead Old Town. Altars, decorations and more. Oct. 28 & 29. San Diego Ave. www.dayofthedeadsd.com

FREE Día de los Muertos at Leo Carrillo Ranch Open House. The historic adobe hacienda will be dressed up with colorful decorations and a customary ofrenda table. Oct. 28, 9:30 am–2:30 pm & Oct. 29, 9:30 am–4:30 pm. Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park, 6200 Flying Leo Carrillo Ln., Carlsbad. www.carrillo-ranch.org

FREE Día de los Muertos Celebration. Community altar, kids craft, photo ops and more. Oct. 28, 3–8 pm. Downtown Chula Vista. www.downtownchulavista.com

Día de los Muertos at Leo Carrillo Ranch Dinner and Movie. A family-friendly celebration that includes dinner, crafts for kids and the movie “Coco.” Oct. 28, 8:30 pm. $25. Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park, 6200 Flying Leo Carrillo Ln., Carlsbad. Registration required: www.carlsbadca.gov

City Heights Día de los Muertos. Oct. 28, 10 am–5 pm. Officer Jeremy Henwood Memorial Park, 4455 Wightman St. www.facebook.com/ CityHeightsDiaDeMuertos/

FREE Encinitas Día de los Muertos. Art exhibits, workshops and more. Oct. 29, 12–4 pm. Mira Costa College, 3333 Manchester Ave., Cardiff. www.encinitasarts.org

Glow N Float Pumpkin Patch at Plunge Pool. Floating obstacle course, games, candy and more. 5:30–8 pm. Belmont Park, 3146 Mission Blvd. Tickets: www.belmontpark.com

“The Sound of Music.” The timeless story of love, courage and the power of music. Through Nov. 12. $20–$22. Casa del Prado Theater, Balboa Park. www.juniortheatre.com

Spooky Campover. Haunted house, games and spooktacular surprises. Tonight, 3 pm through tomorrow, 10 am. $55–$80. Lions, Tigers and Bears, 24402 Martin Way, Alpine. www.lionstigersandbears.org

“Haunted Mansion.” Watch a movie outdoors on the roof of the Manchester Grand Hyatt. 3:45 pm. $11.75–$22.50. Rooftop Cinema Club Embarcadero, 1 Market Pl. www.rooftopcinemaclub.com

FREE Tierrasanta Trunk-or-Treat. Candy, food, games and more. 5–8 pm. Newbreak Church, 10791 Tierrasanta Blvd. https://newbreak.church

saturday | 28

FREE Once Upon a Hallowe’en. Haunted house, carnival games, train rides and more. 4:30–8:30 pm. Old Poway Park, 14134 Midland Rd. www.poway.org

“Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back in Concert.” The San Diego Symphony Orchestra performs the score. Tonight & tomorrow, 7 pm. Starting at $52. The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park, 222 Marina Park Way. www.theshell.org

Boarded: A Pirate Adventure. Pirate theatrics at the dock are underway on San Diego Bay. 10:30 am & 12:45 pm. $35–$80. 1492 N. Harbor Dr. www.sdmaritime.org

Pumpkin Bash. Watch big cats and bears devour pumpkin treats. 10 am. $35–$60. Lions, Tigers and Bears, 24402 Martin Way, Alpine. www.lionstigersandbears.org

“The SpongeBob Musical.” SpongeBob and all of Bikini Bottom face the annihilation of their undersea world. Through Nov. 13. Casa del Prado Theater, Balboa Park. Tickets: www.juniortheatre.com

Lake Poway Halloween Campout. Spooky night hike, costume contest, jack-o’lantern craft and more. 5 pm. $66 per car. 14644 Lake Poway Rd. www.poway.org

FREE

Get treats from Little Italy businesses. Sun., Oct. 29, 5:30–7:30 pm. Maps at Piazza della Famiglia on India & W. Date St. www.littleitalysd.com

FREE Halloween Spooktacular. 11 am–2 pm. Mission Marketplace, 471 College Blvd., Oceanside. www.missionmarketplaceoceanside.com

Mt. Carmel Tournament of Bands. Showcasing top high school marching band field shows and parades.

Mt. Carmel High School, 9550 Carmel Mountain Rd. Schedule and tickets: www.mchsbandtournament.com

Howl-o-Ween 5K Mutt Run/Walk. Costume contest, prizes and more. 8:30 am. $50–$65. Road Runner Sports, 5553 Copley Dr. www.labsandmore.org

Escondido Renaissance Fair. Jousting, live entertainment and more. Today, tomorrow, Nov. 4–5, 10 am–6 pm. $12–$27; under 5 free. Felicita County Park, 742 Clarence Lane. www.oldetymeproductions.com

FREE Halloween Spooktacular Soap Box Races. Enjoy a day of racing and treats. 10 am–12 noon. Brawley Cattle Call, Brawley. Hosted by Best S.T.E.P Forward. www.beststepforward.org

sunday | 29

Pumpkin Poolooza. Floating pumpkin patch, games and more. 1, 1:45, 2:30 & 3:15 pm. $20. The Salvation Army Kroc Center, 6845 University Ave. Register: https://sd.kroccenter.org

FREE Trunk-or-Treat Car Show at Belmont Park. Music, food, rides and fun. 3–6 pm. 3146 Mission Blvd. www.belmontpark.com

FREE Seaport Village Halloween

Festival & Seaport Fudge Factory Costume Contest Celebration. Contest registration and pre-event party, 12–2 pm; games, dancing, parade, contest and more, 2–5 pm. Seaport Village, 849 W. Harbor Dr. www.seaportvillage.com

tuesday

| 31

FREE Safe Trick-or-Treat. Halloweenthemed activities, music, games and more. 5–8 pm. S. Coast Hwy. 101 between Encinitas Blvd. and K St. www.encinitas101.com

FREE Trick-or-Treating in La Mesa Village. 4–6 pm. La Mesa Blvd,

between 4th St & Acacia. www.lamesavillageassociation.org

FREE Treats at Village Walk at EastLake. 3–5 pm. EastLake Pkwy. & Miller Dr., Chula Vista. www.shopvillagewalk.com

FREE Trick-or-Treat at EastLake Village Marketplace. 3–5 pm. Cor. of Otay Lakes Road & EastLake Pkwy., Chula Vista. www.shopeastlakemarketplace.com

FREE Trick-or-Treat Off the Street. 3–5 pm. Carmel Mountain Ranch Town Center, Carmel Mtn. Rd. & Highland Rd. 858.695.2700

FREE Hullabaloo Kids Concert. 10–11 am. Del Mar Highlands Town Center, Upper Plaza, 12925 El Camino Real. www.delmarhighlandstowncenter.com

Find more family happenings at www.sandiegofamily.com.

Want us to spread the news? Email events@sandiegofamily.com and include the name of the event or activity, a brief description, event address, date, time, cost, contact number and website. Submission does not guarantee publication. Deadline for the Dec. issue: Nov. 1.

Photo courtesy of Little Italy Association

Here’s your checklist of Fall Family Fun

Gather the family, choose a few activities and mark your calendar. It’s fall, ya’ll. Let’s have some fun!

Visit a pumpkin farm or pumpkin patch.

Spend a day in Julian. Make your way through a corn maze.

Take advantage of Kids Free in October.

Drink fresh apple cider.

“Boo” the neighbors.

Attend San Diego Family’s Halloween Fun Fest on Oct. 22.

Celebrate or learn about Día de los Muertos.

Plan a fall weekend getaway.

Take a ride on the Pumpkin Express with Pacific Southwest Railway.

We’ve been

Flip through our calendar for a plethora of fun family events, pumpkin patches and Día de los Muertos celebrations.

Read our article “31 Days of Fall & Halloween Fun” at www.sandiegofamily.com/things-to-do/seasonal-happenings for more ways to enjoy this fabulous season.