Tue Oct 15 12:30:00 UTC 2024: ## California’s October Offers More Than Just Spooky Fun
While Halloween may be top of mind for many in October, California is brimming with a diverse range of activities beyond ghosts and goblins. From panda encounters to clam festivals and horse racing, there’s something for everyone this month.
**Panda Mania in San Diego**
San Diego Zoo is celebrating the arrival of two giant pandas, Yun Chuan and Xin Bao, who travelled 7,000 miles from China. Visitors can experience their new, spacious habitat, Panda Ridge, designed to replicate their natural environment. Timed tickets are available for free, allowing visitors to schedule their panda encounter, or they can join the standby line, which typically forms at 9:30 am.
**Festival Fun on the Coast**
Half Moon Bay, self-proclaimed “World Pumpkin Capital,” hosts its 52nd annual Art & Pumpkin Festival on October 19-20. This event features giant pumpkins, a parade, live music, pie-eating contests and a craft market showcasing 275 artists.
Pismo Beach, meanwhile, celebrates its 78th annual Clam Festival, also on October 19-20. The festival offers a clam dig, chowder-making contest, wine and beer garden, a parade, and a range of food vendors and live music.
**Spirits and Art in La Jolla**
For the adults, the 15th annual San Diego Spirits Festival takes place on October 19-20 at the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego in La Jolla. Enjoy unlimited cocktails from over 65 brands, live music, and explore the museum’s galleries.
**The Breeders’ Cup Returns to Del Mar**
Horse racing enthusiasts can head to the Del Mar Racetrack in San Diego County for the prestigious Breeders’ Cup, taking place on November 1-2. This two-day event features 14 races with the richest purse in North America. Local festivities start on October 28 with a celebration of the post-position draw, and a variety of ticket options are available for the races, including reserved seating, dining packages, and access to the infield area known as The Beach.
First Piper 