El Cajon is gearing up for the launch of its annual, free Halloween block party this October. HauntFest will entertain the crowd in San Diego County with costume contests, a candy trail, amusement rides, and more. Adding to the festivities, the annual Haunted Circus is also returning.
El Cajon’s Ultimate Halloween Block Party Returns this October
HauntFest 2025 brings spooky activities for all ages (Source: Official)
HauntFest 2025 returns to Downtown El Cajon on October 17 with a full night of Halloween fun. Last year’s event attracted more than 20,000 visitors, and organizers expect another strong turnout for this year’s family-friendly festivities.
Through a costume contest, San Diego locals from ages 0-7, 8-12, 13-17, and 18+ can dress up in their preferred Halloween attire. The winners of this HauntFest contest will take home a cash prize.
Different amusement rides and a haunted maze will stir up excitement at the 2025 run of the spooky event. El Cajon’s young goblins and ghouls can trick-or-treat their way through an attractive, candy-filled trail.
Visitors can join a trunk-or-treat featuring decorated classic cars and plenty of candy. A reptile petting zoo will showcase a variety of eerie critters.
An outdoor screening of Monsters University will be conducted by HauntFest organizers for families to enjoy under the stars. A live DJ and roaming stilt walkers will be some other attractions at the El Cajon event.
Apart from these, San Diego families can enjoy face painting and airbrush tattoos for the whole HauntFest night. A sensory tent will offer calming activities for anyone needing a break from the festivities.
Venue and Timing
HauntFest 2025 will host a variety of spooky activities in Downtown El Cajon. The San Diego community can embark on a thrilling ride from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on October 17.
The 3rd Annual Haunted Circus at The Magnolia
The Haunted Circus returns for its third year in El Cajon (Source: Charlie Cisneros)
As part of the festivities, the annual Haunted Circus: Monsters at Play will be a prime highlight of the El Cajon event. Hosted at The Magnolia, this year marks the third edition of the family-friendly performance. This part of the San Diego event is produced by Twisted Orbit Circus Entertainment and sponsored by Waste Management.
El Cajon’s local community is invited to enjoy two shows featuring contortionists, jugglers, aerialists, hoop throwers, acrobats, stilt walkers, and more at 210 E Main St, El Cajon, CA 92020, USA.
Timing and Tickets
Showtimes will be from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on October 17, with doors opening 30 minutes prior.
Gold Circle tickets are on sale now, while general admission requires an RSVP.
From ardent fans of Halloween spooks to those looking for a good family activity, HauntFest 2025 promises a chilling yet fun time for people of different ages.
