Cue the pumpkin patches, haunted mazes, and cozy sweaters because it’s October. The leaves are changing colors and you’re ready for your next adventure! Why not get a jump start on your fall vacation than with an itinerary full of Santa Clarita’s lineup of events this month? Check out our helpful guide that will lead you to a weekend of seasonal fun with family and friends!
By Stephanie Villafuerte
Day 1 – Friday
Get your cameras ready because we’re starting your getaway with a visit to the beautiful Gilchrist Farm. This family-owned farm is open year-round for horseback riding and archery but are most known their annual Harvest Festival & Pumpkin Patch! Guests can expect a straw bale maze, wagon rides, farm animal visits, and more every day of the week until October 31.
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After some time spent at the patch, drive over to Main Street in Old Town Newhall for lunch at Eat Real Café. This beauty of a restaurant uses whole and fresh ingredients in every meal they prepare, including their seasonal specials like Butternut Squash Pumpkin Pasta. Make the meal complete with any of their fall drinks such as a pumpkin chai latte!
Have a post-lunch laugh with an afternoon showing of Canyon Theatre Guild’s production of Ken Ludwig’s The Gods of Comedy. This play centers around professor Daphne Rain, who is stunned to come face-to-face with ancient Greek gods and discover their tendency to wreak havoc. Or head on over next-door to The MAIN theatre, where you can catch Monster Mash, presented by ME Main Productions. Dress up in your best Halloween costume as you witness Dracula’s house party that’s full of romance, mayhem, and a potential horror scene!
While the night’s still young, put your bravery to the test with Six Flags Magic Mountain’s popular Fright Fest. This annual event has everything spooky season calls for: haunted houses, scare zones, and monsters and ghouls who are lurking all over the park. And if you’re traveling with littles, not to worry! Six Flags is also offering Kids Boo Fest during the day, where families can join a trick-or-treat trail in Bugs Bunny World, explore two pint-sized mazes, and a train ride aboard the Whistlestop.
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Finally, end your trip to the Thrill Capital of the World by grabbing a sweet treat on the way out. Whether it be their iconic fudge or funnel cakes, Six Flags has a plethora of options to indulge on and send you off with!
Day 2 – Saturday
Begin the exciting day ahead with a hearty breakfast from The Flying Yolk. This new eatery offers savory and sweet meals that are perfect for everyone’s taste buds. Order their largely loved Flying Fried sandwich or Strawberries & Cream waffle – it’s as good as it sounds!
The real adventure begins as you make your way to the Santa Paula depot to pedal your trip around the stunning Heritage Valley with Sunburst Railbikes. Through a guided tour, enjoy views of citrus and avocado groves and a pit-stop at Prancer’s Farm where you can pick fresh produce. The best part? The railbikes are suitable for all ages and skill levels, so bring the whole family!
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On your way back to the city, pop into Lucky Luke Brewing Company for a refreshing drink. This family-owned brewery has a large on-tap menu but also offers seltzer cocktails such as a Blueberry Lemon or a weekly special. With their friendly staff and lively atmosphere, this local favorite is perfect for that afternoon pick-me-up!
Recharge in your own fashion but once nightfall hits, lace up your hiking shoes. Castaic Lake has invited you to join them for the annual Haunted Hike: Let’s Go to the Circus where you’ll be stepping into carefully trapped, clown-led mazes in the dark. Spaces are limited so register for either of the three dates available!
If haunted houses are your thing, visit the eerie Dangling Carrot Creative’s Grisly Garden. Built by a variety of a film industry experts such as makeup artists and SPFX, guests who dare to enter can take a walk-through a frightful tale of mystery, confusion and gore that will no doubt give nightmares. Immerse yourself in this new world of horror with friends for a spooktacular Saturday night.
Day 3 – Sunday
Wind down from your weekend of fall fun with Hayrides Through the Vineyard at Agua Dulce Winery. This one-of-a-kind annual event offers a craft fair, live music, scarecrow alley and more attractions that are fit for the entire family! Visitors may also take tours around the vineyard and enjoy a flight of wine straight from the venue’s grapes. And before closing your vacation, take in the ethereal views of the area have completed your time away from home!
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