Fall is one of the most vibrant seasons in Escondido and North County San Diego. The days are warm, the evenings are crisp, and the calendar is packed with festivals and traditions that bring our community together. Whether you’re a longtime resident or new to the area, these events are a perfect way to experience the charm, creativity, and spirit of our neighborhoods.
Here are five can’t-miss fall events happening in and around Escondido this year.
1. Grand Avenue Festival – Historic Downtown Escondido
When: Sunday, October 19, 2025 • 9 AM – 5 PM
Where: Grand Avenue, Downtown Escondido
The Grand Avenue Festival is Escondido’s signature street fair, drawing thousands to the heart of Downtown. With more than 300 vendors, international cuisine, handmade crafts, live entertainment, and a bustling beer & wine garden, it’s one of the biggest celebrations in North County.
2. Fallbrook Harvest Faire – Small-Town Autumn Vibes
When: Sunday, October 5, 2025
Where: Main Avenue, Fallbrook
Step into small-town charm at the Fallbrook Harvest Faire. Main Avenue transforms into a festive marketplace filled with local artisans, farm-fresh produce, food vendors, and live music. It’s a family-friendly outing that captures the warmth of the season in a close-knit community setting.
3. Carlsbad Strawberry Company – Corn Maze & Speakeasy Nights
When: Late September – October 31, 2025
Where: Carlsbad Strawberry Fields, Carlsbad
The Carlsbad Strawberry Company’s Fall Festival is unlike anything else in the region. Families can explore the massive corn maze, pick pumpkins, and wander through sunflower fields by day. As night falls, the fields transform with haunted attractions and an exclusive hidden speakeasy inside the maze, open Friday and Saturday evenings.
4. Bates Nut Farm Pumpkin Patch – Valley Center Tradition
When: September 21 – October 31, 2025
Where: Bates Nut Farm, Valley Center
For over 50 years, families have flocked to Bates Nut Farm to celebrate fall. The farm’s pumpkin patch, tractor rides, petting zoo, and picnic areas make it a beloved annual tradition. On weekends, the farm hosts craft fairs and live entertainment, making it a full-day destination just minutes from Escondido.
5. Día de los Muertos Festival – California Center for the Arts, Escondido
When: Saturday, November 1, 2025
Where: California Center for the Arts, Escondido
Celebrate culture and tradition at the Día de los Muertos Festival. This vibrant event honors the Day of the Dead with live performances, art exhibits, community altars, and family-friendly workshops. The evening culminates with music, dance, and a candlelight procession that highlights Escondido’s rich cultural diversity.
Discover the Spirit of Escondido This Fall
From historic festivals to unique seasonal experiences, fall in Escondido and North County San Diego offers something for everyone. Whether you’re wandering a corn maze, shopping from local artisans, or celebrating cultural traditions, these events showcase the energy and community spirit that make this region such a special place to call home.
