Halloween Hoopla (Free) – San Francisco, November 1

Día de los Muertos & Diwali Celebration in the Presidio (Free) – San Francisco, November 1

Día de los Muertos Celebration with SF Symphony – San Francisco, November 1

Dia de los Muertos Celebration – San Rafael, November 1

Napa Dia de los Muertos – Napa, November 1

Dia de Muertos Health and Wellness Fair & Sugar Skull 5K Run – Milpitas, November 1

Dia de Muertos Celebration – Mountain View, November 1

Dia de Los Muertos at Children’s Discovery Museum – San Jose, November 1

Fall Open House and Train Show – Santa Clara, November 1, 2

Fun on the Farm (Free) – San Ramon, November 1, 8, 15, 22

Planetarium Shows – Cupertino, November 1, 15, 22

Diwali Celebration at Asian Art Museum (Free) – San Francisco, November 2

Blankets & Blockbusters: A Minecraft Movie (Free) – San Francisco, November 2

Storytime at the Foster Museum (Free) – Palo Alto, November 2

Diary of a Wimpy Kid by CMTSJ – San Jose, November 5-9

Glow Night Golf – Cupertino, November 6

Alice in Wonderland Jr. – Campbell, November 6-8

Family Night Under the Stars – San Francisco, November 7

Annie by Berkeley Playhouse – Berkeley, November 7 – December 21

Slide Ranch Family Farm Day – Muir Beach, November 8, 22

Family Nature Adventures – Oakland, November 8

Dia de los Muertos – Colma, November 8

Second Saturday at Gamble Garden (Free) – Palo Alto, November 8

San Francisco International Hip Hop DanceFest – San Francisco, November 8, 9

Shrek the Musical by PYT – Mountain View, November 8-16

Newsies by Playful People – San Jose, November 8-16

Marine Science Sundays at The Marine Mammal Center – Sausalito, November 9, 23

Popovich Family Pet Theater – Palo Alto, November 15

AndyZ Concert (Free) – Redwood City, November 15

Raptor Fest (Free) – San Jose, November 15

The Emperor’s New Clothes by Palo Alto Children’s Theatre – Palo Alto, November 15, 16

Star Party at Crestview Park (Free) – San Carlos, November 15, 22

Train of Lights – Fremont, November 21-December 30

SF Jazz Family Matinee – San Francisco, November 22

Cinderella performed by World Ballet Company – San Francisco, November 22

Barbie Movie with SF Symphony – San Francisco, November 28, 29

A Christmas Carol by Los Altos Theatre Company – Los Altos, November 28 – December 21

Nutcracker Sweet with San Francisco Chamber Orchestra and the Puppet Company  (Free) – San Francisco, November 29

Nutcracker Sweet with San Francisco Chamber Orchestra and the Puppet Company  (Free) – Palo Alto, November 30

Fall in the San Francisco Bay Area might not bring snowy landscapes or fiery foliage like the East Coast, but we make up for it with crisp coastal breezes, golden hills, and a lot of festive fall charm. And nothing says autumn like a trip to a local pumpkin patch!

Whether you're searching for the perfect carving pumpkin, looking to snap some seasonal family photos, or just craving a hot apple cider and a hayride, the Bay Area has plenty of pumpkin patches worth exploring. Here's a roundup of the best spots around the region for a perfect fall outing.

Top Pumpkin Patches in the Bay Area

1. Arata’s Pumpkin Farm — Half Moon Bay

Pro tip: Go early in the day (or on a weekday), especially in October when Half Moon Bay hosts its Pumpkin Festival.

2. Lemos Farm — Half Moon Bay

Tickets: Required for entry. Weekends sell out quickly, so book online in advance.

3. Pastorino Farms — Half Moon Bay

Fun tip: Stop at both Lemos and Pastorino in one trip—they’re walking distance apart!

4. Webb Ranch — Portola Valley

Parking: Easy and free! Entry tickets required on weekends.

5. ABC Tree Farms Pumpkin Patch – San Mateo

Bonus: No need to plan a whole day. Entrance and parking are free; fee for inflatables.

6. Queen's Pumpkin Patch — Saratoga

Ideal for: A casual afternoon outing or playdate. Note it can get crowded on weekends.

Tips for Visiting Pumpkin Patches

Make a Day of It

If you’re venturing to the coast, pair your pumpkin patch visit with a stop at:

Final Thoughts

Fall in the Bay Area might be subtle, but it’s filled with cozy magic—especially when you make time for simple seasonal traditions like picking out pumpkins, sipping cider, and spending time outdoors. Whether you're looking for a full-blown farm experience or just want to grab a few gourds with a city vibe, there's a patch for every kind of pumpkin lover.

For a rundown of all the latest kid-friendly events on the Peninsula, check out Klabbit.

Reading with Dogs – San Jose, October 16

Disney on Ice: Frozen & Encanto – Oakland, October 16-19

Port of Oakland Harbor Tour (Free) – Oakland, October 17

Moana Jr by Playful People – San Jose, October 17 – November 1

Family Harvest Campout – Muir Beach, October 17-18

Fall Family Sleepovers at Happy Hollow – San Jose, October 17-18

Moana Jr by Playful People – San Jose, October 17-19

SF Jazz Family Matinee – San Francisco, October 18

Cinema at the Cemetery: The Haunted Mansion (Free) – Colma, October 18

Palestine Cultural Festival – Redwood City, October 18

Spooky Times at Deer Hollow Farm – Cupertino, October 18

Fall Festivities at Happy Hollow – San Jose, October 18

Pet Adoption Event – San Jose, October 18

Math Festival (Free) – San Jose, October 18

Children’s Halloween Painting Class – Morgan Hill, October 18

Half Moon Bay Pumpkin Festival – Half Moon Bay, October 18-19

Star Party at Crestview Park (Free) – San Carlos, October 18, 25

13 Days of Halloween on the Wharf – Santa Cruz, October 19-31

Halloween Magic Show (Free) – Oakland, October 22

Disney on Ice: Frozen & Encanto – San Jose, October 23-26

Bhangra & Beats Night Market (Free) – San Francisco, October 24

Halloween Magic Show (Free) – Oakland, October 24

Fall into the Groove with Andy Z (Free) – Palo Alto, October 24

Day on the Bay – Alviso, October 24

Sunset Cinema: Coco – Santa Clara, October 24

Halloween for Families at Gamble Garden – Palo Alto, October 25

Monster Bash – Mountain View, October 25

Pumpkins in the Park – Milpitas, October 25

Monster Mash – Cupertino, October 25

Ninja Kidz Live: Infinite Possibilities – San Jose, October 25

Chang’e and the Moon by Palo Alto Children’s Theatre – Palo Alto, October 25-26

Cal Sailing Club Open House (Free) – Berkeley, October 26

The Music of Disney – Palo Alto, October 26

Animal Day at UC Botanical Gardens – Berkeley, October 26

Halloween Dia de los Muertos Family Fun Fest (Free) – Alameda, October 26

Halloween at The Boardwalk – Santa Cruz, October 26

Museum Mondays for Little Ones – Santa Rosa, October 27

Mayan Mam Día de los Muertos Celebration (Free) – Oakland, October 28

Coco Movie with Live Orchestra – San Francisco, October 29

Halloween Magic Show (Free) – Oakland, October 31

For a rundown of all the latest kid-friendly events on the Peninsula, check out Klabbit.

Zoppe Family Circus – Napa, October 3-13

Richmond District Autumn Moon Festival – San Francisco, October 4

Science Fun Fest (Free) – Redwood City, October 4

Very First Concert – Palo Alto, October 4

Pet Adoption Event at Pup Plaza – San Jose, October 4

Rapunzel by Palo Alto Children’s Theatre – Palo Alto, October 4, 5

Fun on the Farm (Free) – San Ramon, October 4, 11, 18, 25

Sunday Streets – San Francisco, October 5, 19

Storytime at the Foster Museum (Free) – Palo Alto, October 5, 19

Wonder Funday at the Exploratorium – San Francisco, October 5

Gathering of Ohlone Peoples – Fremont, October 5

Bike Palo Alto (Free) – Palo Alto, October 5

Pchum Ben: Celebrating Cambodian Day of the Dead – Oakland, October 7

Around the World through Music – San Francisco, October 11

Slide Ranch Family Farm Day – Muir Beach, October 11

Family Nature Adventures – Oakland, October 11

Fleet Week Airshow – San Francisco, October 10-12

Oakland’s Magic Kitchen – Oakland, October 11

Halloween Magic Show (Free) – Oakland, October 11

Fall Family Day at Richmond Art Museum (Free) – Richmond, October 11

Second Saturday at Gamble Garden (Free) – Palo Alto, October 11

Bay Area Diwali – Cupertino, October 11

Fall Festival at Martial Cottle Park – San Jose, October 11

Diwali – San Jose, October 11

Niles Canyon Train Rides – Fremont & Sunol, October 11, 12, 18, 19

Italian Heritage Festival & Parade – San Francisco, October 12

Pop Up Family Dance (Free) – Berkeley, October 12

Day of the Horse – Woodside, October 12

Art for All Family Day – Stanford, October 12

Marine Science Sundays at The Marine Mammal Center – Sausalito, October 12, 26

By Dorothy Pang, L.Ac.
Pang Acupuncture and Wellness

Hi! I’m Dorothy Pang, a licensed acupuncturist specializing in pediatric laser acupuncture, particularly for kids with ADHD and other focus or nervous system challenges. I’ve worked with many families over the years who are looking for gentle, drug-free tools to help their children thrive, and sleep is one of the biggest concerns I hear about. If bedtime is a daily struggle in your home, you’re not alone.

Sleep issues are incredibly common in children, especially in those with busy brains and sensitive nervous systems. The good news is that there are simple, natural ways to support your child’s body and mind in settling down for the night. Here are four of my favorite tools that many of my patient families have found success with:

1. Consistent Rhythm with a Soothing Wind-Down Routine

Kids respond beautifully to rhythm. A simple, predictable bedtime routine can act as a cue for the body and brain to begin slowing down. Choose 2-3 calming activities and stick with them each night in the same order. For example:

Keep the routine short and sweet — under 15 minutes — and aim to start it at the same time each night. Over time, this routine becomes a powerful signal that it’s time to rest. Let me personally say I recommend a shorter bedtime routine as a long, complicated routine can be taxing on a tired parent at the end of the day!

2. Magnesium: The Calming Mineral

Magnesium is a natural muscle relaxant and plays a role in calming the nervous system. Many kids today are low in magnesium due to modern diets and stress levels. You can incorporate more magnesium through foods like spinach, bananas, and pumpkin seeds, or consider a pediatric-safe magnesium supplement (ask your healthcare provider first). Another easy option: a warm Epsom salt bath (magnesium sulfate) in the evening, which helps relax both body and mind. This is an easy addition if you have an evening bath routine. One thing to watch for is magnesium can soften the bowel movements, and for some kids this is a benefit, while for others this may be problematic.

3. Acupressure to Support Sleep

There are simple points on the body you can gently press that help calm the nervous system. One favorite is called Yin Tang, located right between the eyebrows. Gently press this spot for 30 seconds while your child lies in bed, asking them to focus on big, slow breaths. It’s especially helpful for kids who have trouble shutting off their thoughts at night. Another point is Heart 7, located on the inside wrist crease on the pinky side — it’s known as the “Spirit Gate” and can be very settling. Simply establishing a gentle touch routine can be soothing for kids. Keep your pressure light, more is not better.

4. Laser Acupuncture for Deeper Nervous System Support

For families who want deeper support, pediatric laser acupuncture is a completely needle-free way to help regulate a child’s nervous system over time. It’s safe, pain-free, side-effect free and often calming in the treatment chair. Children with ADHD, anxiety or chronic sleep challenges often benefit from a short series of sessions, and many parents report that bedtime becomes easier, moods become more balanced, and their child feels better overall. It’s a natural tool that works on the root of the issue rather than just masking symptoms. My little patients look forward to their sessions with me!

A Final Thought

If your child has trouble settling down at night, you are definitely not alone. So many parents I talk to are frustrated, exhausted, and unsure of what to try next. The truth is, kids need help learning how to transition from “go-go-go” to “rest and recharge.” A short, pleasant routine combined with simple natural supports can go a long way in helping your child feel safe, relaxed, and ready to rest.

If you’d like to learn more about pediatric laser acupuncture or other natural tools for your child’s sleep, focus, or mood, I’m happy to chat. You can learn more about my work at san-fran-acupuncture.com.

Wishing you peaceful evenings ahead!

 – Dorothy

Dorothy Pang is a licensed acupuncturist based in South San Francisco who focuses on pain, fertility, and pediatric laser acupuncture for ADHD & ASD.

The first day of school brings with it a swirl of emotions - for kids and parents. Whether your child is starting preschool or TK for the very first time, moving up a class, or starting kindergarten at a "big kid school", this milestone is full of excitement, growth, and possibly a few tears (from both of you!).

Here are some ways you can support your little learner and make this school year a positive, confidence-building experience for the whole family.

1. Acknowledge the Emotions (Theirs and Yours)

Starting school can feel like a big leap. It’s completely normal for your child to feel excited one minute and nervous the next. Instead of brushing fears aside with a “You’ll be fine!”, try something like:

“It’s okay to feel a little nervous. I feel that way when I start something new too.”

Naming emotions helps kids understand and manage them better—and lets them know they’re not alone.

2. Establish Consistent Routines

Young children thrive on routine. In the weeks leading up to school, start adjusting bedtime and morning routines so your child knows what to expect. Consistency helps them feel safe, prepared, and ready to face the day with confidence.

3. Practice Independence at Home

Give your child little opportunities to practice skills they’ll use at school:

Each “I did it myself!” moment builds their sense of capability.

4. Talk About What to Expect

Reading books about school is a gentle way to introduce the idea of a classroom, a teacher, and new friends. Walk or drive by the school together, or if possible, attend any open house or orientation events. Familiarity reduces anxiety.

5. Create a Goodbye Ritual

A special hug, a high-five, or a quick phrase like “See you later, alligator!” can make goodbyes easier and more reassuring. Stick with the same goodbye ritual each day so your child knows what to expect.

6. Stay Positive (Even If You're Nervous)

Kids pick up on our emotions. If you’re feeling anxious, try to model calm confidence for your child. Trust that they’re in good hands and that they’ll learn, grow, and adapt beautifully over time.

7. Celebrate the Little Wins

Each day brings something worth celebrating—a new friend, a story they loved, a picture they drew. These little moments matter. They’re building blocks of confidence and joy.

Starting a new school year is a big step, but your love and support provide the solid foundation your child needs to take it with courage. Take a deep breath, give that goodbye hug, and know that you’re both learning and growing together.

Here’s to a year of discovery, laughter, and proud moments. You’ve got this, and so does your child!

Children’s Book Festival – Oakland, September 20

Kids’ Day in the Park – San Jose, September 20

Aloha Outrigger Races – Santa Cruz, September 20

Model Railroad Show – Walnut Creek, September 20, 21

Star Party at Crestview Park (Free) – San Carlos, September 20, 27

A Year with Frog and Toad (Free) – San Francisco, September 20-October 5

Sunday Streets – San Francisco, September 21

Pop Up Family Dance (Free) – Berkeley, September 21

Harvest Festival – Piedmont, September 21

Bike Rodeo – San Mateo, September 26

Family Harvest Campout – Muir Beach, September 26-27

Fall Campout on the Boardwalk – Santa Cruz, September 26-27

Bay Area Maker Faire – Vallejo, September 26-28

Burlingame Pet Parade – Burlingame, September 27

Belmont Water Dog Run – Belmont, September 27

Chuseok Festival (Free) – San Francisco, September 27

Very First Concert (Free) – San Francisco, September 27

Habitot Mobile Museum (Free) – Oakland, September 27

Fall Bike Fest – Cupertino, September 27

Mid-Autumn Moon Festival – San Jose, September 27

Mid-Autumn Festival – Millbrae, September 27-28

Cole Valley Fair – San Francisco, September 28

Craft and Connect at BADM – Sausalito, September 28

Very First Concert – Berkeley, September 28

Cal Sailing Club Open House (Free) – Berkeley, September 28

Movies in the Park – Burlingame, August 29, September 12

Children’s Fairyland 75th Birthday Celebration – Oakland, September 1

San Jose Giants Fireworks – San Jose, September 5

Movies in the Park – San Mateo, September 5, 12, 19, 26

The Addams Family by Berkeley Playhouse – Berkeley, September 5 – October 5

Hops and Props at Hiller Aviation Museum – San Carlos, September 6

Family Literacy Festival – San Jose, September 6

Fiesta on la Playa – Santa Cruz, September 6

Fun on the Farm (Free) – San Ramon, September 6, 13, 20, 27

World Arts West Dance Festival – San Francisco, September 7

Open Cockpit Day – Oakland, September 7

Storytime at the Foster Museum (Free) – Palo Alto, September 7, 21

Santa Cruz County Fair – Watsonville, September 10-14

Honk! Jr – Palo Alto, September 10-28

September Nights on B Street – September 11, 18

Family Campout – Burlingame, September 12

Movies in the Park – September 12, October 3

Lantern Festival – Milpitas, September 12

Fall Family Sleepovers at Happy Hollow – San Jose, September 12-13

Fall Campout at the Boardwalk – Santa Cruz, September 12-13

SF Jazz Family Matinee – San Francisco, September 13

Cartooning for Kids – San Francisco, September 13

Family Nature Adventures – Oakland, September 13

Fall Equinox at Gamble Garden (Free) – Palo Alto, September 13

End of Summer Social (Free) – Mountain View, September 13

Harvest History Festival – Mountain View, September 13

Silicon Valley Fall Fest – Cupertino, September 13

Retro Roadshow (Free) – Saratoga, September 13

2nd Saturday on the Farm – Watsonville, September 13

Niles Canyon Train Rides – Fremont & Sunol, September 13, 14, 20, 21

The Physics Show – Los Altos Hills, September 13-21

Book Launch Party for “Preschool is Cool!” – San Francisco, September 14

Free Family Day at Marin MOCA (Free) – San Rafael, September 14

Fiesta Patrias – Redwood City, September 14

Marine Science Sundays at The Marine Mammal Center – Sausalito, September 14, 28

Picking fruit at a farm is a wonderful way to blend education and fun. Children engage with nature, sharpen their fine motor skills by gently picking fruit, and learn about where food comes from — all while enjoying a screen-free, sensory-rich outing.

What’s in Season in August?

• Strawberries, blackberries, and raspberries are still available at local farms through August.
• Stone fruits like peaches, nectarines, and plums are often in their prime through the summer months.

Popular local picks:

• Blue House Farm (San Gregorio): Certified organic strawberries, available weekends 12-5 pm; open May–October. Offers a farm stand and kid-friendly layout.
• R&R Fresh Herbs (Pescadero): U-pick raspberries, blackberries, and olallieberries daily 10 AM–6 PM, with baskets priced per pound or basket.
• Webb Ranch (Portola Valley): U-pick berries until July/August. Small entrance fee, ages 2 and under free, check website or call for available days.
• Swanton Berry Farm (Davenport): California’s first certified organic strawberry farm. U-pick strawberries open weekends 9 am - 6 pm, plus great farm stand.
• Earthseed Farm (Sebastopol): A solar-powered organic permaculture farm with Afro-Indigenous roots. U-pick runs through November. In July/August expect pluots, apples, raspberries, and blackberries. Reservations required, group entry fees apply.
• Boring Farm (Sebastopol): Organic raspberry farm open Saturdays 9 am - 1 pm through August. Reservations required, including parking fee.
• Duckworth (Sebastopol): Three different varietals of organic blueberries with kid-friendly access. 8/2 is the last day of the season, 8 - 10:30 am. Bonus: sheep and ice cream!

Family-Friendly Benefits & Tips

• Berries on low bushes are perfect for young children. Just watch out for thorns!
• Use this time to teach kids about plant growth, farm life, nutrition, and sustainability.
• Call or check social media before heading out to confirm availability, as seasons can shift based on weather.
• Reservations: Earthseed, Boring, and Duckworth often require reservations, so book early.

What to Bring

• Light layers, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), sturdy closed‑toe shoes
• Plenty of water and snacks
• Containers or baskets (some farms provide them, but it's helpful to have your own)
• Cooler or insulated bag to keep picked fruit fresh if you're going to be out for a while

Parent Tips for a Happy Harvest

• Start Early: Morning visits beat the heat, crowds, and give you better fruit.
• Pick Together: Let kids pick low-hanging fruit while you handle higher branches.
• Stay Gentle: Show children how to twist or roll berries off gently to avoid damaging farms.
• Keep it Fun: Make it a game: Who finds the reddest berry? Who picks the plumpest?
• Respect the Farm: Stay in designated areas, don’t eat fruit before paying, and leave no litter behind.

Coventry & Kaluza – Circus & Comedy (Free) – Atherton, August 16

Banjos and Bluegrass – Woodside, August 17

Salt Marsh Safari (Free) – San Jose,  August 19, 23

Bob Baker Marionette Theater (Free) – Menlo Park, August 22

MakeArt Family Day (Free) – San Francisco, August 23

Cultura Fest (Free) – South San Francisco, August 23

Kids ‘N Fun Festival – Cupertino, August 23

Star Party at Crestview Park (Free) – San Carlos, August 23, 30

Summer Family Sleepovers at Happy Hollow – San Jose, August 23-24, 30-31

Sunday Streets – San Francisco, August 24

Origami Palooza – San Francisco, August 24

Tale of the Dragon Puppet Show (Free) – Menlo Park, August 24

End of Summer Concert with AndyZ – Portola Valley, August 28

Parents Night Out at Axe – Oakland, August 29

Paint a Plane at Hiller Aviation Museum – San Carlos, August 30