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This year was our very first time attending the Rockridge Halloween Parade and Trick-or-Treating in the Bay Area, and I can’t believe we waited so long to join in. For two days every October, right before Halloween, the Rockridge District transforms into a festive, family-friendly Halloween destination. And the cool thing about it is, it’s completely FREE.
We showed up ready for candy, costumes, and community, and the event delivered all that and more.
Trick-or-Treating Along College Avenue
Trick-or-treating along College Avenue, where more than 40 local businesses handed out goodies to eager little goblins and ghouls. We walked up and down the road (from Broadway to Alcatraz) collecting treats and admiring everyone’s creative costumes. It felt like the whole neighborhood came out to celebrate.
Some of our favorite stops included:
- Blick Art Materials, where we found a Halloween-themed craft table
- Ben ‘N Nick’s, handing out mini soda floats for kids (so cute!)
- The Xocolate Bar, with a Dia de Muertos altar and coloring station
- Forge Rockridge, hosting a dog costume contest that was just too fun to miss
There were even a few spots with hot apple cider, tattoo stations, and small giveaways. It was such a nice touch to see local businesses getting into the spirit.
Two Family-Fun Hubs Full of Activities
The event was anchored by two “Fun Hubs”, each with its own set of family activities:
Fun Hub #1 – Rockridge Library (5366 College Ave)
We started here to grab our free Trick-or-Treat bag at the State Farm booth. The parking lot was bustling with:
- Crafts by MoChA
- Puppet shows and spooky storytime courtesy of the library
- A picnic zone where you could grab food from nearby restaurants and eat together outdoors
There was even bike valet and stroller parking, which made everything feel very family-friendly and accessible.
Fun Hub #2 – College Avenue Presbyterian Church (5951 College Ave)
This spot had a more lively, high-energy vibe thanks to the DJ dance party happening from 12–2 pm. We got temporary tattoos, decorated mini pumpkins, and enjoyed more crafts. It was “hella” fun.
Costume Contests for Everyone
The costume contests for kids, families, and even pets. All you had to do was snap a pic at one of the designated photo booths and enter online or via email. Winners scored $50 Rockridge Cards to spend at local shops and restaurants. We didn’t win, but it was still fun to participate and see all the creative looks.
A New Halloween Tradition
We ended the afternoon with full candy bags, happy kids, and tired feet — the mark of a good Halloween outing. I especially loved how organized the event was, from the signage to the clean restrooms to the tons of staff and volunteers keeping everything running smoothly.
It was festive, community-centered, and thoughtfully put together. Rockridge really knows how to do family-friendly events right. We’re already planning to come back next year.
Rockridge Halloween Parade & Trick-or-Treating
Hosted by the Rockridge District Association and partners
Learn more at: rockridgedistrict.com
