Want to go on an East Bay adventure? With so many offerings in the region, we’ve curated some of the top events this October so you don’t have to. Here are the best things to do in the East Bay this October. This means less researching and more enjoying your time in the area. Enjoy!
Featured photo: Oaktoberfest, photo by D.Ross Cameron.
October 3-31
The East Bay’s premier haunted attraction, featuring multiple world-class haunted houses, terrifyingly immersive sets, and live scare-actors designed to deliver unforgettable thrills, never disappoints. Come to Newark to experience the joys of being frightened, but be advised that the event is not recommended for kids under age 13.
October 4-5
Toast to good brews and good times in the Town at Oaktoberfest. This year, the free event returns to Oakland in Bavarian style with live music, traditional German food fare, hundreds of vendors and the best of Bay Area craft beer. The event is free and held in Oakland’s Dimond District.
October 8-12
Oakland’s looking good at this style-themed week of fashion shows, gastronomy and art events. Get treated to a fashion show while sipping tea and cocktails, or meander through art galleries as part of a special Oakland Art Murmur event. Don’t miss the Art Clash, Mixology Competition, Cuisine and Couture, and more.
October 16-18
For three evenings, the Gardens at Lake Merritt come alive with backlit, colorful sculptures and creative light displays created by dozens of artists. There’s also an art festival each evening by the same artists who created the light installations. Proceeds from the event go to support the gardens and enable them to stay free all year.
October 24-26
The Harvest Festival signs up tens of thousands artists and craft makers each year for its mega arts & crafts events, making it arguably the largest event of its kind on the West Coast. It makes a stop at the Alameda Fairgrounds in Pleasanton — and along with all that shopping, it features live music and a dynamic kid zone play area.
Event Venues
Looking to see what’s happening right now in the East Bay? Our comprehensive list of venues below will help you find what you need to know what’s going on.
Looking for more things to do in the area?
Visit our What to Do in Northern California page!