Halloween in San Mateo 2026
Trick-or-treating downtown and on 25th Avenue, a library party with a magic show, Halloween dance nights, and a teen pumpkin carving. Everything happening October 24 to 31.
Halloween in San Mateo comes in waves this year. Saturday, October 24 is the big day, with a library party in the morning, free trick-or-treating on B Street in the afternoon, and dance workshops into the night. The following week brings a teen hangout, Trunk or Treat on 25th Avenue, and a Latin dance night, and on Halloween itself a piano school just over the line in Belmont is opening its doors to trick-or-treaters. Times and details below, and every event is also on our Events page.
Saturday, October 24
Halloween Party at the Library
A Halloween magic show, a trick-or-treat parade, spooky sensory boxes, and crafts for kids of all ages.
BTS K-Pop Halloween Workshop
Learn BTS's "Blood Sweat & Tears" with Chloe. All levels welcome.
BOOs & Brews on B Street
A free afternoon from the City of San Mateo Parks and Recreation and the Downtown San Mateo Association, with trick-or-treating, arts and crafts, music, food and drinks.
Thriller Dance Workshop
Learn the Thriller moves with Max and bring your best zombie energy. All levels welcome.
Halloween Milonga Sentimental
A Halloween night of tango with DJ Gustavo Hornos.
Halloween week
Teen Halloween Hangout
Pumpkin carving and seasonal snacks while watching The Nightmare Before Christmas. For students in 8th to 12th grade. Registration required.
Trunk or Treat on 25th Avenue
Local businesses decorate their trunks and hand out treats. Come in costume and bring a treat bag. Brought to you by the San Mateo Area Chamber of Commerce and PJ's Pizza Co.
Halloween Latin Night
Salsa and bachata solo basics at 7, beginner bachata at 8, and social dancing at 9. Costumes encouraged but not required.
Halloween night, Saturday, October 31
Community Trick-or-Treat at Digital Monkey Piano School
All families are welcome to drop by anytime for treats. Hosted by the Digital Monkey School Foundation, a nonprofit, just next door to San Mateo.
Hosting a Halloween event that's open to the public? Send it to jason@sanmateolocal.com and we'll add it, free. For everything else happening around town, see our Events page.