San Clemente, Get In The Spooky Spirit — Halloween Events Coming

SAN CLEMENTE, CA — Halloween season is in full-swing, and the City of San Clemente wants to help you and your loved ones celebrate as they host two family-friendly events throughout the month of October, the city announced Thursday. From corn mazes to magic shows, from scarecrow contests to swimming with jack-o'-lanterns — the City of San Clemente hopes to scare you soon with these community events.

Spooky San Clemente

San Clemente residents can visit the city's community center Oct. 23 for an evening of carnival games, tricks (and treats), magic shows and pumpkin patches — among so many other things. At this event, the city will display submissions from its first annual Scarecrow Contest. If you're interested in participating in the contest, it's not too late. Residents can pick up a free scarecrow frame from the city's community center until Wednesday before submitting their scarecrow on the day of the event.

To top the night off, the city will be hosting a free showing of "The Addams Family" on the lawn outside the community center.

But wait, there's more — the San Clemente Downtown Business Association and local shops plan to open for "Treat Street" down Avenida Del Mar. Participating stores have a purple balloon outside their shop, so families are encouraged to be ready with open bags to be filled with free candy and other treats.

To enjoy all the Spooky San Clemente activities, families can purchase wristbands at $5 each. Presale wristbands are also available for purchase online and can be picked up at the will call station on the day of the event. Spooky San Clemente runs from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the San Clemente Community Center, 100 N. Calle Seville.

5th Annual Pumpkin Splash

The Halloween festivities don't stop there. On Oct. 30, the City of San Clemente hosts the 5th annual Pumpkin Splash with two sessions starting at 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. at the San Clemente Aquatics Center. Community members of all ages can swim in the activity pool and play structure, float around with pumpkins and play on an inflatable obstacle course.

There are several Halloween-themed activities in and out of the pool, and guests can get in the spirit while listening to spooky Halloween classics.

Each participant will receive one pumpkin for decorating while supplies last, and the entry fee is $7 per person. The city said pre-registration is encouraged, as space is limited. Participants must also be able to pass a swim test to play on the giant inflatable obstacle course.

For more information on these events, the city asks residents to contact the Recreation Division of San Clemente at (949)-361-8797, or visit the city's website to learn more.