Judging by the relentless parade of campaign ads on television, streaming services, social media and even in your mailbox, you might think the Nov. 3 midterm elections are the only thing happening in California.
If you're sick of the ads, you're hardly alone. A survey found about a third of American adults were already fed up with political advertising in July, months before the final campaign blitz.
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For anyone looking for a break from politics, here are 12 events upcoming events in California where the only thing vying for your attention is a good time.
- Howl-O-Scream, select nights through Oct. 31: SeaWorld San Diego transforms into a nighttime Halloween attraction featuring haunted houses, scare zones, live entertainment, themed bars and roller coaster rides after dark. The separately ticketed event runs on select nights through Halloween. More information.
- Brick or Treat, select dates through Nov. 1: Legoland California Resort in Carlsbad celebrates Halloween with trick-or-treating, live shows, costume contests, Lego monster characters, and Brick or Treat Street, featuring six life-size Lego monster homes. The family-friendly festivities are included with regular park admission on event dates. More information.
- Campbell Oktoberfest, Oct. 17-18: Downtown Campbell will celebrate its 31st annual Oktoberfest with German food, beer, wine, live music on four stages and more than 125 vendor booths. More information.
- Carlsbad Pumpkin Plunge, Oct. 17: Alga Norte Aquatic Center will host its seasonal Pumpkin Plunge celebration, offering a Halloween-themed outing at the pool. More information.
- Half Moon Bay Art & Pumpkin Festival, Oct. 17-18: The city will celebrate its 54th annual pumpkin festival with giant pumpkins, a parade, pie-eating contests, live entertainment and more. More information
- Lake Elsinore Oktoberfest, Oct. 17: Launch Pointe will host a free Oktoberfest celebration featuring live music, food, drinks, axe throwing, pretzel necklace making and a costume contest. More information.
- Día de los Muertos Festival, Oct. 24: Mission Viejo will celebrate the Day of the Dead with mariachi music, folkloric dancing, face painting, crafts, food vendors, a procession and illuminated classic car ofrendas. Admission is free. More information.
- Santee Brews & Bites Festival, Oct. 17: This 21-and-older festival at Town Center Community Park East will feature food and beverage tastings, Halloween activities and live music by Jimmy's Buffet. More information.
- FOG Diwali Mela, Oct. 24: Fremont's Festival of Lights celebration at Washington High School will feature traditional performances, dancing, cultural activities, shopping and Indian cuisine. More information.
- Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk Chili Cook-Off, Oct. 24: Visitors can sample competing chili recipes and vote for their favorites during the annual cook-off at the seaside amusement park. More information.
- Water Harvest, Oct. 24: The free family festival in El Segundo will feature space-themed activities, interactive games, a children's costume contest, live entertainment, giveaways and tours of a water recycling facility. More information.
- Howl-O-Ween at The Living Desert, Oct. 31: The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens in Palm Desert will celebrate Halloween with trick-or-treat stations, face painting, animal trading cards and special keeper experiences. Activities are included with zoo admission. More information.
Are you planning an event this fall? Feature it so nearby readers see it all across Patch — including in roundups like this!