Discovery Commons San Ramon Blog

Fun Halloween Activities Seniors Can Do in San Ramon

Written by San Ramon | Oct 24, 2025 4:00:00 AM

Seniors in San Ramon, CA, who are looking for fun Halloween activities will find plenty in this city. Local events include Trick or Treat on the Farm, Orangefest, and the Howl-O-Ween Costumed Pet Parade. There are also at-home options, like pumpkin crafts, senior Halloween craft ideas, and movie nights.

Are you one of the 70% of Americans who are planning on celebrating Halloween, according to Statista? Then you'll want to go all out, as the holiday only comes around once a year, after all.

But now that you're an older adult, you can't attend everything that piques your interest. So what's available in San Ramon, CA?

Read on to find out what fun Halloween activities you can do with your loved ones this fall.

Local Halloween Events in San Ramon

Of course, you can start within the city itself. Luckily, there are several events that you can easily get to.

Trick or Treat on the Farm

This event is held by the City of San Ramon on October 18th. Attendees can come in costume and trick-or-treat at Forest Home Farms Historic Park.

There will be different stations where your grandkids can get treats, as well as do fun activities.

Orangefest

Orangefest is a fantastic festival at Brave Church held on Saturday, October 25th, from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Not only will there be candy for the kids, but there will also be a trunk-or-treat competition. There's an opportunity to win two tickets to Disneyland and two tickets to a 49ers game!

Other things you can enjoy here are:

  • Live music
  • Inflatables
  • Food trucks
  • Pumpkin games

Howl-O-Ween Costumed Pet Parade

This pet parade is perfect for seniors who absolutely adore their furry companions. It'll be on Sunday, October 26th, at Alexander Square, from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm.

You can show off your cute pet and also get your photos taken together at the Halloween-themed selfie station. You can also get treats from George.

Halloween Home Decorating Contest

Every year, the city holds a home decorating contest from October 5th to October 31st. You can grab a tour map to see which houses are participating. 

For an easier time, you can drive around to admire the decor. Otherwise, for a nice walk and wellness activity, you can walk around the neighborhoods.

Where to Trick-or-Treat in San Ramon?

Do you want to take the little ones trick-or-treating? Then you'll want to hit the best spots in town!

One way to do so is to use the Halloween Home Decorating Contest map. Considering that these are the most decorated houses, chances are, they'll be passing out the best candy, too.

What's the Best Halloween Night Activity?

Trick-or-treating is the best Halloween night activity, hands down. But here are some others to consider:

  • Spooky movie night
  • Haunted or lantern walks
  • Community potluck
  • Costume games for seniors
  • Drive-through light displays
  • Virtual or small-group themed game night
  • Twilight social gathering at a park
  • Local haunted house

Creative Halloween Activities You Can Do at Home

Holiday fun at home is entirely possible, and you can still have an amazing time. Creative activities to do are:

  • Pumpkin carving or decorating
  • Decorative lantern-making
  • Baking Halloween-themed treats
  • Spooky reading
  • Murder mystery dinner game
  • Tabletop or board games with a Halloween twist
  • Fall-themed crafts
  • Memory-sharing sessions
  • Shadow puppet theater

Safety and Comfort Tips for Seniors on Halloween

To ensure that your Halloween goes safely and smoothly, follow these tips:

  • Wear comfortable shoes
  • Use battery-powered lights instead of candles
  • Keep a flashlight handy
  • Stick to sidewalks and well-lit streets
  • Use walking aids if needed
  • Stay hydrated and bring water
  • Go in the middle of the evening before it's too late
  • Travel in a group or pair
  • Let someone know your route or plan
  • Rest periodically

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Find Wheelchair-Accessible Haunted Attractions in the East Bay?

Yes, there are several haunted houses and spooky events in the East Bay that have accessible "milder" paths and sensory-friendly times. You should check their websites ahead of time for things like:

  • Accessibility information
  • Low-scare hours
  • Alternative routes for limited mobility visitors

Where Can I Buy Halloween Costumes or Props Locally?

There should be many major costume or party supply stores in nearby cities, like Walnut Creek, Pleasanton, and Dublin. There are also general chain stores that often have Halloween sections starting in early October. Or you can try local consignment or thrift stores for gently used costumes that are more affordable.

What's a Good Beginner Halloween Playlist for Background Music or Mood?

comfortable, low-thrill playlist might include instrumental spooky/vintage tracks, such as:

  • Haunted Mansion instrumentals
  • Classical minor-key pieces
  • Soundtracks, like Ghostbusters, Casper, or The Addams Family

You can also play ambient nature noises or soft swing/jazz tunes for a more upbeat mood for gatherings.

Are There Seasonal Volunteer Opportunities Around Halloween for Seniors?

Yes, you can help with hosting booths, decorating, handing out treats, staffing events, or running games. Try organizations like:

  • Local libraries
  • Community centers
  • Schools
  • Churches
  • Nonprofit fall festivals

What Are Some Low-Sugar or Diabetic-Friendly Halloween Treat Ideas for Seniors?

Instead of candy, try the following:

  • Nuts
  • Pumpkin seeds
  • Popcorn
  • Sugar-free chocolate
  • Fruit cups
  • Homemade baked goods with sugar substitutes

How Can Seniors Include Grandchildren in Halloween Fun Without Late Nights?

You can have a fun and safe intergenerational Halloween by planning afternoon activities, such as:

  • Pumpkin painting
  • Costume parades
  • Early trunk-or-treat events

That way, you can have a shared experience before dark, which helps you avoid fatigue or the hazards of the night.

Check Out These Fun Halloween Activities

San Ramon is filled with fun Halloween activities, and not just the ones on our list. The fact is, the city and its surrounding areas are bursting with spooky events, and all you have to do is look.

So plan ahead of time to avoid disappointment. This is especially true for ticketed events that sell out fast!

At Discovery Commons San Ramon, we have a fitness center and a dynamic community life calendar to keep our residents' bodies and minds stimulated! To learn more about senior living in San Ramon, CA, get in touch with us now.