October Fest at Galway Downs, Temecula

During its October Equestrian Festival, Galway Downs transforms some of its 240 acres into a Halloween haven. The month-long celebration is spread across multiple weekends and, much like a magician's assistant, it's split into two parts. During the day, children explore the pumpkin patch and mini corn maze, take a tractor-pulled hayride, visit the petting zoo, and do other kid-centric activities. Activities for adults include the car and bike show and the market. Horse shows and exhibits will be open daily and culminate in a polo match at 3 p.m.

Once the sun goes down, though, the atmosphere becomes a bit more spooky. Sporting their costumes, guests explore the festival's haunted village and climb aboard its haunted hayride. Gymkana shows will be presented nightly. Guests can also participate in costume contests, which will almost certainly be won by anyone who comes as the headless horseman by actually removing their head.