Old Poway Park's annual Halloween celebration returns Saturday, Oct. 24, with free admission, a Headless Horseman-led costume parade and several new attractions for families.

Once Upon a Hallowe'en runs from 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the park, 14134 Midland Road. The city of Poway announced the lineup in an Oct. 5 civic alert, highlighting an expanded Nightmare Before Christmas themed area in the boxcar lot this year. The area will feature a DJ, plus Jack, Sally and Oogie Boogie characters.

The evening starts early for parade participants. Families who want to join the Halloween costume parade should check in at 3:30 p.m. for a 3:45 p.m. start. The Poway Rodeo Committee provides the Headless Horseman who leads the procession through the park. To register, call 858-668-4579.

The Poway Chamber of Commerce is co-hosting a new Trunk or Treat along Midland Road, where local businesses will hand out candy from decorated vehicle trunks.

Other activities include rides on the Poway-Midland Railroad, carnival games, a pumpkin decorating contest and a haunted house inside Templars Hall. Train rides, games and food are available for a small fee. Haunted house admission is $1 per person and is not recommended for children under 5.

Hocus Pocus 2 on the lawn

The Halloween weekend continues Sunday, Oct. 25, with a free outdoor screening of Hocus Pocus 2 on the park lawn. The screening begins at 6:15 p.m., and the movie starts about 15 minutes after sunset, according to the city's event calendar. Families can bring blankets and snacks.

The haunted house reopens during the movie from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., also at $1 admission.

Haunted house stays open through Oct. 30

Families who miss the Oct. 24 main event can still visit the haunted house nightly from Oct. 25 through Friday, Oct. 30, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Admission remains $1 per guest.

Planning your visit

  • Once Upon a Hallowe'en: Saturday, Oct. 24, 4:30–8:30 p.m., Old Poway Park, 14134 Midland Road. Free admission.
  • Costume parade check-in: 3:30 p.m.; parade starts 3:45 p.m. Register at 858-668-4579.
  • Hocus Pocus 2 screening: Sunday, Oct. 25, 6:15 p.m. Free.
  • Haunted house extended hours: Oct. 25–30, 6:30–8:30 p.m. nightly. $1 per guest.