Welcome to the East Bay’s most spirited season — where crisp air meets ghostly tales, pumpkin lattes, and nights that shimmer with mystery. As the veil between summer and fall thins, our communities light up with festivals, art, and a little bit of fright. Whether you’re wandering Benicia’s haunted streets, sipping potions at a brew crawl, or finding magic in Martinez, this week brings together everything we love about October — connection, creativity, and a touch of the supernatural.

📅 Sat, Oct 11 | 12pm–11pm
📍 Alameda County Fairgrounds, Pleasanton
💵 $8–52 (kids 5 & under free)

A spectacular fusion of Dussehra and Diwali celebrations featuring Bollywood dances, a disco Dandiya party, authentic Indian food, and a massive 40-foot Ravan effigy burn capped with fireworks. With 150+ vendors and carnival rides for the kids, it’s a festival of lights, flavors, and culture that’ll brighten your weekend.

📅 Sat, Oct 11 | 10am–6pm
📍 MLK Civic Center Park, Berkeley
💵 Free

Berkeley honors Native heritage with its 33rd Annual Indigenous Peoples Day Powwow. Expect vibrant regalia, drum circles, and intertribal dances filling the park with rhythm and color. Shop Native crafts, taste traditional foods, and join a community gathering rooted in culture, resilience, and celebration.

📅 Sat, Oct 11 | 1pm–4pm
📍 Downtown Martinez, Main Street
💵 Ticketed (21+ only)

Downtown Martinez transforms into a zombie zone with craft beer flowing at 30+ tasting stations. Shuffle between shops and cafés, sample local brews, and compete in the zombie costume contest for prizes. Grab your glass, channel your inner ghoul, and get ready for a spooky good crawl.

📅 Sat, Oct 11 | 9am–2pm
📍 Suisun City Waterfront
💵 Free

The waterfront comes alive with gleaming hot rods, classic cruisers, and restored beauties. Pair the car eye-candy with live music, food trucks, and waterfront views for a relaxed community hangout. Perfect for families, gearheads, or anyone who loves shiny chrome in the fall sunshine.

📅 Sun, Oct 12 | 1pm doors, films ~1:45pm–4:30pm
📍 Vallejo Naval & Historical Museum
💵 Tickets required

Hosted by The Arc-Solano, this festival showcases powerful short films about people with developmental disabilities. A mix of heartwarming, funny, and inspiring stories — plus popcorn, nachos, and candy — make it a cozy Sunday outing. Silent auction and raffle proceeds support local programs.

📅 Thu–Sun, Oct 16–19 | Various times
📍 Contra Costa Event Park, Antioch
💵 $15 general (kids 6 & under free)

The 89th Annual Walnut Festival brings four days of carnival rides, artisan vendors, games, and live entertainment. With a Kid Zone, craft beer garden, and endless food stalls, it’s a fairground tradition that has been bringing East Bay families together for decades.

📅 Fri & Sat evenings, through October
📍 Downtown Benicia
💵 Ticketed tours

Step into haunted history as guides lead you through downtown Benicia’s eerie past. Hear chilling tales of restless spirits, visit haunted buildings, and maybe even feel a ghostly chill yourself. Equal parts history and mystery, this walk is the perfect October night out.

📍 514 Main Street, Martinez, CA
🎭 Magic show + 3-course dinner (Fri & Sat evenings)
💵 Ticket price includes dinner, show, dessert & non-alcoholic drink

Step into a night of wonder at Cal Magic, where vintage charm meets modern illusion. From the moment you enter their cozy theater-dinner setup, you’ll be part of a living tribute to the “golden age of magic.” Tableside magicians amaze you between courses, then the main show starring Gerry Griffin delivers laughs, surprises, and jaw-dropping feats.

Expect a starter of fresh greens with your choice of dressing, followed by a duet of roasted tri-tip beef and chicken breast (or a plant-based pesto pasta alternative). Seasonal veggies, herb rice, and garlic butter complete the plate. Don’t skip dessert — signature hand-dipped chocolate strawberries and bite-sized treats cap off the evening.

Whether you’re planning a date night, birthday outing, or simply a magical escape, Cal Magic is a unique East Bay gem where food, theater, and illusion combine into one unforgettable evening. 🌟

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As the fog rolls in and pumpkins start glowing, remember that the magic of Spooktober isn’t just in haunted houses — it’s in our shared moments, laughter, and local adventures. Thanks for joining us for another spirited week across the East Bay.

Stay local & stay inspired,

Ryan DeAmaral

Co-Writer, Twin Oaks Insider

[email protected]