Season of the Dead
Halloween in Santa Paula
The season of the dead is, ironically, when Santa Paula can seem the most alive. October is typically the last month before locals and tourists either hunker down for the winter rains or flee the area to visit distant family during the holidays.
By October 1, ten-foot skeletons and jack-o’-lanterns have already posted guard in some front lawns. By mid-month, several neighborhoods succumb to flying witches who run afoul of power poles (SPLAT!) or giant fuzzy spiders that entomb front walks and facades in faux cobwebs.
Local eateries like Rabalais’ reintroduce their own spins on holiday favorites, like pumpkin spice lattes (that use real pumpkin puree), and comfort foods like meatloaf and chicken pot pie.
You could argue that Halloween is the last communal celebration in Santa Paula before winter.
If you’re looking for ways to celebrate the season in Santa Paula, here are some ideas.
The Santa Paula Theater Center, in cooperation with dedicated volunteers and the Rotary Club, presents the Ghost Walk, which will guide you through some of Santa Paula’s major landmarks and bring to life area history. Actors portray the “ghosts” of real historical figures and perform dramatic scenes that illuminate major events or local lore. The season’s theme is the “Spirits of the Old Sycamore Tree.”
This year marks Ghost Walk’s 30th anniversary. Tours continue through this weekend (October 27, 2024), and tickets are $15 per person.
Recommendations
—This year’s tour is held outdoors, and several scenes run 15 to 20 minutes. Plan accordingly: Wear comfortable shoes, and bring a warm sweater or jacket, as nights can be chilly.
—You’re welcome to take photos. No flash photography, please.
—Tours start at the Train Depot at 10th and Santa Barbara Streets. Check in a few minutes before your tour time.
—Start your evening with a drink or two at The Glen Tavern, located kitty corner to the Train Depot at Mill and Santa Barbara Streets. This purportedly haunted hotel and bar will help set a spooky mood for your tour.
Ride the historic rail line between Santa Paula and Fillmore and enjoy the scenic beauty of the county’s citrus orchards! Power-assisted bikes accommodate two riders, with rides lasting 2.5 hours and covering 10 miles between cities. Stops along the way allow you to check out local produce stands, including Prancer Farm’s Pumpkin Patch.
Recommendations
—Book well in advance. Spaces fill quickly.
—Ventura County residents: Enter your zip code to receive a discounted rate.
TRICK-OR-TREAT AND HALLOWEEN LIGHTS/DISPLAYS
All the Halloween action can be found on Santa Paula Street, which runs east-west through the center of town. Look for impressive Halloween displays here and around Historic Downtown, and then bring the kiddies to Santa Paula Street on Halloween night to collect their hauls of candy and goodies.
DIA DE LOS MUERTOS (DAY OF THE DEAD)
Santa Paula will observe this traditional Mexican celebration, which honors the spirits of the dead, on Saturday, November 2. Festivities include music, dancing, food, and arts and crafts. Look for events at both the Pierce Brothers Santa Paula Cemetery and the Santa Paula Art Museum, which will be hosting its Free Family Day that day.
Recommendations
—Be sure to check out both locations. Events vary between them.
—Free Family Day at the museum is a great opportunity for kids to explore arts and crafts. Docents will be on hand to answer questions and provide assistance.