13 ways to celebrate Halloween, from terrifying haunted houses to kid-friendly fun

The season of witches, ghosts, monsters, zombies and jack-‘o-lanterns is upon us.

Of course, Halloween isn’t just about dressing up to go trick-or-treating. It’s also the time of year when people go out seeking a good scare, explore creepy places and meet up with fellow thrill-seekers.

While theme parks like Universal Studio Hollywood and Knott’s Berry Farm will draw big crowds with their elaborate events this year, there are plenty of other Halloween-inspired happenings popping up in the coming weeks throughout Southern California.

Here are 13 events that are guaranteed to get you into the spirit.

Bowers Museum

Since 1936 the museum has been a place where people come to learn about local and world history, culture and art. But on two Saturday evenings in October, visitors may get more than they bargained for. The museum, which has long been rumored to be haunted, is offering nighttime tours. They will be led by Haunted Orange County’s historian and author Charles Spratley, who will share the stories behind the spirits.

When: 6:30 and 8 p.m. Oct. 15 and 22

Where: Bowers Museum, 2002 North Main Street, Santa Ana

Tickets and more info: $45 for general admission; $35 for museum members at hauntedoc.com/bowers-museum.

Caitlin Manor Haunted House

This is the final year for this long-running home haunt, which was created by San Bernardino resident Augie Cowan and his family a decade ago. The haunt takes up his entire quarter-acre home and property for an approximately 20-minute walk-through experience. It includes a graveyard, a clown and doll room, zombies, a slide and tunnels, plus it’s filled with live actors. These scares are for a good cause since the annual haunt serves as a benefit for Cowan’s daughter who suffers from metachromatic leukodystrophy, which requires medications and treatments not covered by insurance.

When: 6-11 p.m. Oct. 21-23 and 28-31

Where: Caitlin Manor Haunted House, 6880 Caitlin St., San Bernardino

Tickets and other info: $13 requested donation at the door.

Coffin Creek

Coffin Creek includes a traditional hayride, a haunted trial and three themed haunted houses. Guests will trek through an asylum, visit the catacombs and a cursed bayou. Those who survive can also check out the goods in the Dark Shadow Market Place.

When: 7 p.m.- midnight Fridays-Saturdays; 7 p.m.-10 p.m. Thursdays and Sundays select evenings Oct. 7-30

Where: Riverview Recreation Park, 14600 Baron Drive, Corona

Tickets and more info: $17-$69 at coffincreek.com