Spooky but Safe Ways to Celebrate Halloween 2020!
It’s been a scary year, but this Halloween needn’t be frightening, too! While trick-or-treating may not be in the works for you and the kids this year, many local organizations are reinventing old classic events or creating new family favorites. These outdoor events, and one virtual event, are a great way to enjoy a little spirited fun. We’ve wrapped up a quick summary below, but for additional details please visit each organization’s website. Happy Halloween!
Coachella Valley History Museum—Virtual Event
October 24 – November 8
Join the Coachella Valley History Museum for the 8th Annual Día de los Muertos Fundraiser and Celebration, a celebration honoring loved ones. This year’s event is a virtual one, with all special events and presentations offered within safety guidelines. There will be videos sharing the history and cultural significance of the holiday and its traditions, DIY tutorials on altars, flower crowns and calaca makeup, musical performances and more. For more information on the event, contact the museum office at 760-342-6651.
Halloween Scavenger Hunt
Palm Desert Community Center and Civic Center Park
43900 San Pablo Avenue
October 26-31, 9am-7pm
Here’s an exciting adventure the whole family can enjoy. Join the Desert Recreation District for a fun-filled scavenger hunt in Civic Center Park! Pick your day and time, and register online at MyRecreationDistrict.com/community-events. Then follow the spooky clues and complete your clue sheet. All ages are welcome, and each child that registers will receive a bucket of goodies. $3 per person.
Halloween Drive-Through Event
The Gardens on El Paseo, Lower Level Parking Structure
October 29-30, 6-9pm
Have a spooktacular night and support the Family YMCA of the Desert! Their Halloween Drive Through, held in partnership with the City of Palm Desert, promises to be a family-friendly fun time that allows you to celebrate all the tricks and treats of Halloween from the comfort and safety of your own car. Tickets are $10 per vehicle and includes a treat bag, and can be purchased at ymcahalloween2020.eventbrite.com.
El Toro Flicks Carpool Cinema
“The Deck” Parking Structure at Westfield Palm Desert
October 29-November 1
Join El Toro Flicks at Westfield Palm Desert for a drive-in movie experience with a Halloween twist or two. Check out their website for movie titles, times, and ticket information.
Howl-O-Ween
The Living Desert
47900 Portola Avenue
Saturday, October 31, 8am-5pm (Last admission at 4pm)
Safely celebrate Howl-O-Ween at The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens. Children are encouraged to dress up in their favorite costumes and explore the Zoo for a socially distant and family-friendly adventure. The Living Desert has adapted the day’s activities to include a self-guided scavenger hunt, and pre-stuffed Boo in a Bag treat for children ages 12 and under (while supplies last) in place of trick-or-treating. Be sure to grab a “Scales, Claws, and Teeth, Oh My!” program to see your favorite animal receive a special pumpkin enrichment experience during your visit. Due to capacity limitations, advanced reservations are required through The Living Desert’s online ticketing system. Free for members or with paid park admission.
Halloween Costume Cruise Night
El Paseo
October 31, 5-6:30pm
Turn the roadster into a rocket, or the SUV into a submarine. (Or leave the minivan alone. They’re scary enough!) Then pop the kids into their costumes—you, too, if you like—and join the City of Palm Desert, the Carter Elementary School Cougars and the Desert Sands Unified School District at the free Halloween Costume Cruise Night. The evening promises socially distanced fun as cars promenade up and down El Paseo. Linger a bit longer after the event to enjoy all that the restaurants and shops of El Paseo have to offer.