(Oct. 10, 2011) – Halloween falls on a Monday this year. If the residents of San Francisco had their way, it would probably be declared a federal holiday. Reinvention, transformation, magic, mystery and mischief are all part of the civic psyche. Oct. 31 and the days leading up to it provide the perfect setting for some treats and tricks.  

Stop in at the San Francisco Visitor Information Center, 900 Market St., on the lower level of Hallidie Plaza or visit www.sanfrancisco.travel for more autumn fun.

To get into and around San Francisco, public transit is recommended. For information, dial 511 (nine San Francisco Bay Area counties), 510-893-8729 or visit www.511.org.  

Special events and activities in San Francisco and the Bay Area for Halloween and El Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) include:   

Ongoing
Tactile Dome
The Exploratorium, Palace of Fine Arts, 3601 Lyon St.
This beats the bowl of peeled grapes to simulate eyeballs. At the Exploratorium’s legendary Tactile Dome, visitors are never quite sure what's there as they feel their way through twisting passageways, chutes and rooms, guided only by their sense of touch. $17 covers admission to the Tactile Dome and the Exploratorium. For reservations, call 415-561-0362, Monday through Friday, between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m., or visit www.exploratorium.edu.

Ongoing, 6:10 and 6:45 p.m. until Oct. 23, 2011, 4:20 p.m. after Oct. 23, 2011
Alcatraz Night Tour (Thursday-Monday)
Alcatraz Landing, Pier 33
Limited to a few hundred visitors each evening, this tour includes fascinating stories and spine-tingling adventures to the dark corners of the island prison. Tickets range from $19.50 to $33. Reservations required. For tour times and ticket information, visit www.alcatrazcruises.com or call 415-981-7625.

Through Oct. 30, 2011, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (Closed Mondays)
Wicked Plants: The Weed that Killed Lincoln’s Mother & Other Botanical Atrocities
Conservatory of Flowers, 100 John F. Kennedy Dr., Golden Gate Park
Paralysis, strangulation, derangement — these are just a few of the misdeeds of the plant kingdom chronicled by author Amy Stewart in her bestseller, “Wicked Plants: The Weed that Killed Lincoln’s Mother & Other Botanical Atrocities.” Building on the fascinating plant portraits in Stewart’s book, the Conservatory introduces visitors to living examples of dozens of infamous plants that have left their mark on history and claimed many an unfortunate victim.  For information visit www.conservatoryofflowers.org or call 415-831-2090.

Through Oct. 30, 2011, Starting at 6:30 p.m.
Fright Nights (Weekends Only)    
Winchester Mystery House, 525 S. Winchester Blvd., San Jose
Fright Nights is a special ticketed event at the world famous Winchester Mystery House. On select nights in October the grounds of the Winchester Estate are transformed into San Jose’s most terrifying Halloween experience, filled with haunted walk-through attractions, intense scares, roaming performers and nightmare inducing tales. Explore the mansion in darkness on the Halloween Flashlight Tour or face the all new terrifying Curse of Sarah Winchester Maze. According to the staff at Winchester, this is the real thing: “remember we do not build haunted houses ... we are one!” For information visit www.winchestermysteryhouse.com/frightnights.cfm or call 408-247-2000.

Through Oct. 30, 2011 (Friday-Sunday), 7 p.m.-12 a.m.
Halloween Haunt
California’s Great America, Great America Parkway, Santa Clara
Halloween Haunt is an “in your face” scare experience complete with six mazes, three themed scare zones, five live stage shows, and one gruesome themed attraction plus the park’s collection of thrill rides. Event is rated PG-13. Full price admission is $41.99. For information call 408-988-1776 or visit www.cagreatamerica.com for additional advance savings.

Through Oct. 30, 2011 (weekends and Fridays Oct. 21 and 28)
Fright Fest Presented by Snickers®
Six Flags Discovery Kingdom, 1001 Fairgrounds Dr., Vallejo
Six Flags will unearth frightful fun for the entire family. Billed as “thrills by day and fright by night,” before 6 p.m. there are Halloween-themed shows for kids. Once the sun sets, the ghouls come out to haunt the midways. Evening hours feature bone-chilling walk-through attractions, eerie shows and teeth-chattering thrill rides. For information or to purchase tickets, visit www.sixflags.com/discoverykingdom or call 707-643-6722.

Through Nov. 19, 2011, 8 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, special Halloween performance at 8 p.m.
Shocktoberfest — Fear Over Frisco
Hypnodrome, 575 10th St.
Thrillpeddlers’ 12th annual “pageant of terror” offers three one-act plays in the grand guignol tradition. “Czar of Noir” Eddie Muller has written three tales that portray a different period in local history: a contemporary déjà vu dread-inducing “The Grand Inquisitor:” the post-WWII hysterics of “An Obvious Explanation,” and the Prohibition-era “The Drug.” For information visit http://thrillpeddlers.com or call 415-377-4202.

Through Jan. 16, 2012
Houdini: Art and Magic!
Contemporary Jewish Museum, 736 Mission St.
 “Houdini: Art and Magic” includes more than 160 objects: magic apparatus, a recreation of the famous Water Torture Cell, historic photographs, dramatic Art Nouveau-era posters, theater ephemera, and archival and silent films that allow visitors to fully explore the career and legacy of the celebrated entertainer. With a talent for self-promotion and provocation, this immigrant son of a poor Hungarian rabbi rocketed to international fame and grabbed front page headlines with his gripping theatrical presentations and heart-stopping outdoor spectacles. On Oct. 27 at 7 p.m. Joshua Jay, award-winning magician, author and headliner at L.A.’s famed Magic Castle, dramatically recounts some of the strangest deaths that have befallen magicians, assistants and even some audience members throughout history (adults only). Monthly magic classes for kids are also available throughout the run of the Houdini exhibition. For information visit www.thecjm.org or call 415-655-7800.

Oct. 7-31, 2011, 6:30 and 8:30 p.m.
Halloween Fire Engine Tours
San Francisco Fire Engine Tours, departing from The Cannery, 2801 Leavenworth St.
Sneak through cemeteries and buildings where restless spirits still linger in one of the most haunted parts of San Francisco, The Presidio. Get spooked driving in an open-top, vintage fire engine truck around an old military post and learn why to avoid The Presidio, especially at night this time of year when you are bound to see things —or maybe you think you see something? Capture an apparition in a photo as you pass by buildings —others have. Suitable for ages two and up; adults $75, children $45. For information visit www.fireenginetours.com or call 415-333-7077.

Oct. 8-Nov. 5, 2011
Illuminations: Dia de los Muertos 2011
SOMArts Cultural Center, 934 Brannan St.
El Dia de los Muertos, the Day of the Dead, offers a way for people to embrace the beauty of life and to honor the spirits of the dead. Each year more than 80 Bay Area artists from a range of cultural backgrounds participate in this exhibition, creating Intricate, traditional altars and complex art installations. Many of them are often topical – touching on devastating natural disasters – and also deeply personal. The 30-plus altars include traditional interpretations as well as high-tech, experimental installations using 3-D images and projections. For information visit www.somarts.org or call 415-863-1414.

Oct. 10, 2011, 7-11 a.m.
Safeway World Championship Pumpkin Weigh-Off
IDES Grounds, 735 Main St., Half Moon Bay
Superstar Gourd Growing Greats and their hard-to-believe, titanic orange orbs gather for the Safeway World Championship Pumpkin Weigh-Off — in the World Pumpkin Capital of Half Moon Bay, Calif. Considered the “Super Bowl of Weigh-Offs,” this is the 38th annual gourd-athon. A $5,000 bonus mega-prize will be awarded to any grower that breaks the world record at Half Moon Bay, and a host of accomplished, grizzled veteran growers will be contending for the coveted title, the $5,000 world record prize and $20,000 in additional prize money. In a pay-by-the-pound system, the winner will take home a hefty $6 per pound for the champion mega-pumpkin. The grand champion gourd (along with the top five overall) will be on display at the Half Moon Bay Art & Pumpkin Festival, Oct. 15-16, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. For information visit www.miramarevents.com or call 650-726-9652.

Oct. 14-31, 2011, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Halloween Haunted House Tours at Jelly Belly
Jelly Belly Candy Co., One Jelly Belly Lane, Fairfield
Candy factory tours include the fun and kid-friendly haunted house at Jelly Belly Candy Company.  Tours detour through a decorated haven of Halloween delights.  Learn about the making of Jelly Belly® jelly beans, candy corn and more on 40-minutes tours followed by samples. For information visit www.jellybelly.com or call 800-953-5592.

Oct. 14-Dec. 11, 2011
Love & Loss: Dias de los Muertos 2011
Oakland Museum of California, 1000 Oak St. at 10th Street, Oakland
Ofrendas or altars by 14 artists and three community groups with personal stories related to Días de los Muertos are highlighted in the Oakland Museum of California's (OMCA) 17th annual Days of the Dead observance and exhibition. The exhibition “Love & Loss: Días de los Muertos 2011” investigates the significance of ofrendas and showcases the intimate and sacred spaces in which they are shared. A special Days of the Dead Community Celebration with an opening ritual, music, dance, food, entertainment, gallery tours, and an arts and crafts market is planned for Sunday, Oct. 23, noon-4:30 p.m. The day features Ballet Folklorico Costa de Oro,Teatro Familia Aztlan, La Familia Peña Govea, Orquestra La Moderna Tradicion, and Yolanda Aranda Coria. For information visit www.museumca.org or call 510-318-8400.

Oct. 15-16, 2011, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Half Moon Bay Art & Pumpkin Festival
Main Street, between Miramontes and Spruce Street, Half Moon Bay
The World Pumpkin Capital of Half Moon Bay celebrates its bountiful fall harvest and autumn splendor with a special display of enormous champion pumpkins, three stages of entertainment, live music, the Great Pumpkin Parade, a bone-chilling haunted house, harvest-inspired crafts, home style foods, expert pumpkin carver Farmer Mike sculpting a monster 1,200-plus pound pumpkin into a one-of-a-kind masterpiece, photos with the grand champion mega-gourd, pie-eating and costume contests and all-things pumpkin. For information visit www.miramarevents.com or call 650-726-9652.

October 15-16, 2011, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Goblin Jamboree
Bay Area Discovery Museum
557 McReynolds Road, Sausalito
Celebrate the Halloween spirit at the annual Goblin Jamboree for children and families. This year marks the 25th anniversary of this spooky-but not-scary festival for the Bay Area’s youngest children, ages six months to eight years old. Come in costume and explore the Bay Area Discovery Museum, transformed into a haunted wonderland complete with games, attractions and live entertainment. Ride a train or real ponies, visit the spooky-but-not-scary Haunted Pier, make potions in the witches’ and wizard’s school, visit the petting zoo and enjoy a full brew of games, activities and live entertainment. For information visit www.baykidsmuseum.org/goblin or call 415-339-3900.

Oct. 22, 2011, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Children’s Halloween Hootenanny
Stanyan Street and Waller Street cul-de-sac next to Kezar Pavilion
A Haight-Ashbury Street Fair Production, the Children’s Halloween Hootenanny features a “Grimm’s Fairy Tales” theme this year and includes a costume contest, puppet show, performers, exhibitions and creative hands-on activities designed to entertain children of all ages. Since 2006, this event has been an opportunity in the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood for children to enjoy the spirit of Halloween in a safe and fun environment. Event will be strictly supervised and monitored to ensure the safety and amusement of all participants. For information visit www.haightashburystreetfair.org.

Oct. 22, 2011, 8 p.m.-4 a.m.
Masquerotica
Concourse Exhibition Center, 635 Eighth St.
Creating nine exotic areas and bringing several Bay Area party icons and performers under one roof, producers AnonEvents, Opel Productions and J9 from FreshSF will transform the Concourse Exhibition Center into an indoor playground of sexy, wholesome, erotic fun for mixed-gender communities. Billed as a “sinful, sensual soiree,” the event is for ages 21 and over only and costumes are mandatory. For tickets visit www.masquerotica.com.

Oct. 22-Nov. 19, 2011
“Death  in Parallel/Muerte Paralela”
Mission Cultural Center for Latino Arts (MCCLA), 2868 Mission St.
Through a visual journey of folkloric and contemporary altars, “Death in Parallel” examines el acompañimiento, the accompaniment of the dead in day-to-day lives. Through the creative presentation of stories, photos, home video and personal artifacts, MCCLA fosters this rich and vibrant tradition within the Latino community to call upon the dead to remember and honor loved ones. Information on special workshops and a V.I.P. reception and fundraiser on Oct. 26 are available at www.missionculturalcenter.org or by calling 415-821-1155.

Oct. 27, 2011, 6-9:45 p.m.
SFMOMA Now Playing: Ann Magnuson Plays David Bowie and Jobriath,
or The Rock Star as Witch Doctor, Myth Maker, and Ritual Sacrifice
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, 151 Third St.
Magnuson is a performance artist, musician, and actress who defined downtown 1980s New York, marked college radio with her band Bongwater, and has graced everything from sitcoms to blockbuster thrillers. In her new tribute cabaret, she nods to Bowie with a song cycle of his early 1970s work. With musical direction by Kristian Hoffman, the performance gains power as Magnuson embodies Jobriath, the only openly gay star of the glam rock revolution. The performance also will incorporate dreams, Jung, human sacrifice, Aztec shamanism, and all things dark, bloody and beautiful. For information visit www.sfmoma.org or call 415-357-4000.

Oct. 27, 2011, 6-10 p.m.
Zombie NightLife
California Academy of Sciences, 55 Music Concourse Drive, Golden Gate Park
It's going to be a night to dismember! Just days before Halloween, NightLife will be overrun with zombies!  Take a crash course in zombie neuroscience with Zombie Research Society founder Brad Voytek, and learn how zombie-like symptoms would manifest themselves in real life.  Don’t miss horror maven and hostess Peaches Christ and her Zombie Drag Show & Costume Contest (un-dead attire encouraged!), or the chance to dance the night away at Miss Misery's "Zombie Prom." Check out real brain specimens, sample the latest in zombie video games, and even go on a zombie apocalypse adventure through the museum. Music by DJ Tomas Diablo. Zombie NightLife is a Bay Area Science Festival event. $12 per person; ages 21 and over. For information visit www.calacademyorg/nightlife or call 415-379-8000.

Oct. 27, 2011, 6 p.m. (V.I.P. Reception), 7-9 p.m. (Gala)
GLBT Historical Society Unmasked Gala
The Green Room, War Memorial Building, 401 Van Ness Ave.
The GLBT Historical Society's annual “Unmasked” gala will bring together enthusiasts of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender history from for a festive evening. The gala supports the public history work of the society and its renowned GLBT History Museum, the first museum of its kind in the United States. The gala features live entertainment, food and a hosted bar. A silent auction will offer guests the chance to bid on travel packages, fine wines and other distinctive lots including numerous vintage photographs, posters and items of queer historic memorabilia. VIP tickets are $100; general admission $60. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.unmaskedgala.org.

Oct. 27-29 and Oct. 31, 201a.
Mystery “After Hours” Tours, Ship of Spirits and Monster Bash
USS Hornet Museum, 707 W. Hornet Ave., Pier 3, Alameda Point, Alameda
All ages are welcomed aboard this National Historic Landmark, the USS Hornet. Aptly nicknamed “The Gray Ghost,” the ship is the setting for a series of events over the Halloween weekend including their ongoing History Mystery three-hour guided “After-Hours” tours that start at 7 p.m. on Oct. 27 and 31while the ship is illuminated in red lights used for “night ops.” On Friday, Oct. 28, a special lecture by psychic and parapsychologist Dr. Pamela Heath is featured for a “Ship of Spirits” tour. And finally on Oct. 29 the annual Monster Bash, a family friendly event will feature live dance music by The Cocktail Monkeys, prizes for best costumes, a children’s area and haunted tours. Tickets are $20 adults, $10 children up to age 17; $25 at the gangplank. Proceeds benefit preservation of the historic aircraft carrier. For information visit www.hornetevents.com or call 510-521-8448, ext. 282.

Oct. 28, 2011
Trick or Train Halloween Bash
The Napa Valley Wine Train, 1275 McKinstry St., Napa
This Halloween, step back in time. A dinner and journey on an antique train is the perfect way to celebrate this fun and mystical holiday. A ghoulish costume party and dancing, as well as a costume contest and prizes, will follow at the station. On board the Trick-or-Train, guests will be served a multiple course gourmet meal along with two glasses of wine inside railcars that are nearly 100 years old. Entertainment will continue until 1 a.m. Guests must be 21 years or over to be admitted. For reservations and information visit http://winetrain.com/holiday/halloween or call
800-427-4124.

Oct. 28, 2011, 4-9 p.m.
Scaregrove
Stern Grove, 19th Avenue and Sloat Boulevard
Join San Francisco Recreation and Parks for a spooky good time at Scaregrove, featuring a haunted house, carnival rides, giant inflatables, hay rides, live entertainment and food for sale. Fun for the entire family; $8 per person. For information visit www.sfrecpark.org or call 415-831-2700.

Oct. 28, 2011, 6-8:30 p.m.
Halloween Carnival
Japanese Community and Cultural Center of Northern California (JCCCNC), 1840 Sutter St.
Come to JCCCNC's and the Japanese Community Youth Council's Halloween Carnival for a safe spooky scene. Games and prizes, tricks and treats, arts and crafts and goodies to eat are all part of the fun. For information call 415-567-5505 or visit http://www.jcccnc.org.

Oct. 28, 2011, 8:30 p.m.
Mr. Roboto Presents Halloween
Mezzanine, 444 Jessie St.
Mr. Roboto presents Halloween featuring Too $hort Live; costume competition sponsored by Svedka and Red Bull. Ages 21 and over only. For ticket information visit www.mezzaninesf.com/calendar.asp.

Oct. 28-29, 2011, 8 p.m.
BATS Improvised Horror Musical
Bayfront Theatre, Building B, Fort Mason
Taking inspiration from audience suggestions, and classic horror films such as “Alien” and “The Exorcist,” BATS’ talented cast of actors and musicians create a completely improvised, and frightfully delightful, full-length improvised musical. Everything from the plot to the score, the lyrics to the characters will be created on the spot. For information visit www.improv.org or call 415-474-6776.


Oct. 28-31, 2011
Bay City Bike’s Spooktacular 2011
Wear a costume during Bay City Bike’s Spooktacular weekend and save $7 off 24-hour rentals. Departures from Fisherman’s Wharf; for information visit www.baycitybike.com or call 415-346-2453.

Oct. 28-31, 2011
Ripley's Tricks and Treats
Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium, 175 Jefferson St.
Get lost in the weird, the creepy and unusual world of Ripley’s Believe it or Not! Odditorium, a Halloween destination for families, friends and even dates. Experience the eerie exhibits and Halloween decorations firsthand. Channel your inner Bruce Lee and navigate the Mirror Maze, with more than 200 mirrors spread across nearly 2,000 square feet, all located in the heart of Fisherman’s Wharf. With frightening music and surprise characters lurking in the maze, it’s the perfect activity for a good thrill. Ripley’s will be passing out free candy to children 12 and under with ticket purchase. For information visit www.ripleysf.com or call 415-202-9850.

Oct. 29, 2011, 9-10:30 a.m.
Breakfast at Jelly Belly
One Jelly Belly Lane, Fairfield
Come in costume and start celebrating Halloween with a special breakfast at the Jelly Belly Visitor Center, including orange eggs and sausages.  Sugar cookie decorating and costume contest.  At check-in guests will receive coloring page, crayons and discount card for candy purchases. $12.99 per person; kids two and under free. For tickets, available in advance, visit www.jellybelly.com, or call 800-953-5592.

Oct. 29, 2011, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Family Halloween Day
Randall Museum, 199 Museum Way, off Roosevelt above 14th and Castro Streets
Come in costume and join in the kid-friendly festivities at the Randall Museum’s Family Halloween Day. The Museum will be transformed into a Halloween haunt with a gamut of ghoulish games, creepy crafts, (low sugar) treats and (non-scary) tricks, pumpkins and more. Admission is free; however, $3 donation appreciated. For information call 415-554-9600 or visit www.randallmuseum.org.

Oct. 29. 2011, 11-11:30 a.m.
Munchkin Masquerade at Jelly Belly
Jelly Belly Candy Co., One Jelly Belly Lane, Fairfield
Little ghouls and goblins 10 and under will be right at home at the Jelly Belly Visitor Center; it’s everyone in costume for the Munchkin Masquerade march through the Haunted House in the candy factory tour. Face painting and clowns add to the fun. Goodie bags for the first 300 children in costume. For information visit www.jellybelly.com or call 800-953-5592.

Oct. 29, 2011, 6-11 p.m.
La Catrina: Keeping the Spirits Alive
Concourse Exhibition Center, 635 Eighth St.
A benefit for The Mexican Museum’s annual fund, this event includes a cocktail and hors d’oeuvre reception as well as dancing, entertainment, a live auction and costume contest. General admission $100. For information visit www.themexicanmuseum.org or call 415-202-9700.

Oct.  29, 2011, 6:30-9:30 p.m.
SuperNatural Halloween Party
California Academy of Sciences, 55 Music Concourse Drive, Golden Gate Park
Trick-or-treat your way through the Academy at night, among spooktacular animals, creepy specimens and more. This fun-filled evening for all ages includes a costume contest, a giant pumpkin carving demonstration, special dive program, and family-friendly activities. Proceeds from the special event help support educational outreach activities. Individual tickets are $50 for adults, $35 for ages 13-17, $25 for ages 12 and under; family VIP package for four, including behind-the-scenes tour, available for $250. For information visit www.calacademy.org or call 415-379-8000.

Oct. 29, 2011, 7 p.m.
Journey to the End of the Night Halloween
Justin Herman Plaza, foot of Market Street
The kickoff event for the Come Out and Play Festival, Oct. 29-Nov. 6, 2011, returns to the “haunted” cityscape of San Francisco. Last year 1,300 participants took over city streets in this free street game. Players wearing colorful ribbons try to make it through a series of checkpoints on foot or by public transportation, avoiding being caught along the way. For information visit http://totheendofthenight.com or http://comeoutandplaysf.org.

Oct. 29, 2011, 7 p.m. (participants are advised to arrive at least one hour early to be included in World Record)
Thrill the World
Studio One Art Center, 365 45th St., Oakland
Thrill the World is an annual worldwide simultaneous dance to Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” video for world records and charity. Hundreds of cities on five continents have registered for the event. Locally the event will take place in Oakland at Studio One Art Center. All ages and physical abilities are welcome; a dancers workshop will be held from 3-6 p.m. for newcomers. Besides breaking a world record, the event is a fundraiser for the American Brain Tumor Association.
Also scheduled is a costume contest and performance by the Bay Area Flash Mob dancers, performing other Michael Jackson video dances. For information visit http://thrilltheworldoakland.com/default.aspx.

Oct. 29,, 2011, boarding begins at 7:30 p.m.; boat departs at 8:30 p.m. and docks at 11:30 p.m.
The KISS Screamin' Halloween Cruise
Hornblower Cruises and Events, Pier 3, The Embarcadero
Join 98.1 KISS-FM and Hornblower Cruises for the fifth annual KISS Screamin' Halloween Cruise. Come dressed to trick or treat and then jive to KISS-FM tunes. Tasty cocktails, delicious appetizers and stunning views make for a frighteningly good time. Reserved for 21 and over; tickets $45. For information visit www.hornblower.com or call 415-788-8866.

Oct. 29, 2011, doors open at 8 p.m., show begins at 9 p.m.
Michael Jackson “Thriller” Halloween Ball
Bimbo’s 365 Club, 1025 Columbus Ave
Foreverland, an electrifying 14-piece band, pays tribute to Michael Jackson, with special guest singer Pamela Fields doing some Janet Jackson. Reserved for 21 and over; tickets are $22. Standing only, two-drink minimum. For information visit www.bimbos365club.com or call 415-474-0365.

Oct. 29, 2011, 9 p.m.
Halloween Booootie: A Monster Mashup Spectacular
Mezzanine, 444 Jessie St.
Costume contests and mashup DJs. Ages 21 and over only. For ticket information visit www.mezzaninesf.com/calendar.asp.

Oct. 29-30, 2011, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Boo at the Zoo
San Francisco Zoo, One Zoo Road, Great Highway and Sloat Blvd.
Leave the rubber masks at home so as not to frighten the animals. Come dressed up in a Halloween costume and trick-or-treat around the Zoo, wander through the brand new hay maze, venture through the Haunted Nature Trail and more. Plus, check out the popular Pumpkin “Chomp ‘n Stomp” where the animals get some tasty pumpkin treats from their keepers. Free with paid Zoo admission. For information visit www.sfzoo.org or call 415-753-7201.

Oct. 29, 2011, 10 p.m.-2 a.m. (Sunday, Oct. 30)
A San Francisco Tale “Wicked” with Joan the Clown
Infusion Lounge, 124 Ellis St.
On Halloween weekend, the Infusion Lounge will be transformed into a wicked circus carnival complete with devilish spectacles starring evil clowns, exotic beasts and other twisted circus freaks. Enjoy themed specialty cocktails and dance the night away to the sounds of J. Espinosa spinning the best club hits and remixes. Costumes are highly encouraged for this exclusive special event. Reservations required for ticketed event; for information visit www.infusionlounge.com or call 415-421-8700.

Oct. 29-30, 2011
Halloween Weekend
California Academy of Sciences, 55 Music Concourse Drive, Golden Gate Park
A weekend full of special programs and demonstrations highlight the incredible (and sometimes spooky) diversity of creatures and phenomena that populate the natural world.  Learn how beetles are used by museums like the Academy to clean bones. Discover how leeches, tape worms and other parasites feed off of other life forms to survive. Take a closer look at human and animal skulls, live tarantulas, hissing cockroaches, snakes and other crawling, slithering critters.  All weekend long, observe owl vomit dissections, separate bat fact from fiction (including what they really eat), and explore natural materials that glow in the dark. All ages welcomed; all programs included with general admission fee. For information visit www.calacademy.org or call 415-379-8000.

Oct. 29-Oct. 31, 2011, 10:30 a.m., 12:30, 2:30, 4:30 and 6:30 p.m.
HallowScreen!
The Walt Disney Family Museum, The Presidio of San Francisco, 104 Montgomery St.
Celebrate Halloween weekend with a special selection of haunted cartoon shorts such as “The Skeleton Dance,” “The Mad Doctor,” “Pluto’s Judgment Day” and more. Costumes are welcomed. For information visit www.waltdisney.org or call 415-345-6800.

Oct. 30, 2011, registration 11 a.m.-noon, event noon–3 p.m.
Pet Pride Day
Sharon Meadow, Golden Gate Park
This full day of entertainment, education and information is fun for everyone with two, or even four, legs. A parade of pets will also include the San Francisco Mounted Police Unit and entertainment by the DiscDoGG Demo team as well as the Pet Food Express Pet Costume Contest (see website for contest rules). For information visit www.sfgov.org/site/acc.

Oct. 30, 2011, noon–1:30 p.m.
Halloween Hoopla: Dance & Parade for Kids
Children’s Garden, Rooftop, Yerba Buena Gardens, Fourth and Howard Streets
Come join the 11th annual Halloween program, featuring interactive performances and games for kids. The Unique Derique hosts The Venezuelan Music Project, eco-friendly Trash Mash-Up crafts and Preston folds origami. Just before the Hoopla ends, children under 10 and their adults are invited to parade in their Halloween finery. For information visit www.ybgf.org or call 415-543-1718.

October 30, 2011, noon-4 p.m.
Halloween Haunts and Happenings
Exploratorium, 3601 Lyon St.
Enjoy some creepy crawlers – human and non-human – at the Exploratorium’s Halloween Haunts and Happenings. Come see giant insects, tarantulas, blood-sucking leeches, maggots and much more. Dress up in your Halloween costume and join in a variety of spine-tingling activities. Try making and decorating sugar skulls, creep through the “Graveyard of Dead Science Ideas” and admire the trappings of predatory plants in the “Garden of Carnivorous Plants.” Spooky, and the occasionally silly, film animations from the 1930s including Betty Boop’s “Halloween Party” (1933) and Bugs Bunny in “Water, Water Every Hare” (1952) will be screened in the McBean Theater. There is a small fee for the sugar skull making, but all other activities are included in Exploratorium admission. Halloween Haunts and Happenings is being presented in association with the Bay Area Science Festival. (http://www.bayareascience.org/festival). For information visit www.exploratorium.edu or call 415-EXP-LORE (397-5673).

Oct. 30, 2011, 5 p.m.
Japanese Ghost Stories and Jazz
Yoshi’s San Francisco, 1330 Fillmore St.
The haunting experience of Brenda Wong Aoki's ghost stories masterfully performed in concert with Asian jazz pioneer, Emmy Award-winning composer Mark Izu; multi-percussion of Anthony Brown.This Halloween show is a great way to lead into Halloween night. For information visit www.yoshis.com/sanfrancisco or call 415-655-5600.

Oct. 30, 2011, 8 p.m.
“Phantom of the Opera” Screening with Organist Cameron Carpenter
Davies Symphony Hall, 201 Van Ness Ave.
In celebration of Halloween organist Cameron Carpenter will perform live improvised organ accompaniment to a screening of the 1925 film “Phantom of the Opera,” starring Lon Chaney. Carpenter will also perform selected works for solo organ on Davies Symphony Hall’s Ruffatti organ, followed by the screening of the film. For tickets starting at $20 visit www.sfsymphony.org or call 415-864-6000.

Oct. 31, 2011, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Halloween Blood Drive
Embarcadero Center, Drumm St. at Four Embarcadero
Save lives and have a spooky good time by giving blood at the Embarcadero Center Halloween Blood Drive. All blood donors will have their name entered to win prizes including hotel accommodations, restaurant gift certificates, movie tickets and much more. Enjoy treats and goodie bags while celebrating Halloween by donating much needed blood to Bay Area patients. Donor coach will be located at Drumm Street at Four Embarcadero Center. Donors can sign up for appointments at www.bloodheroes.com; enter embarcadero as the sponsor code (case sensitive). For more information call the Tenant Relations hotline at 415-772-0730.

Oct. 31, 2011, 1-3 p.m.
Halloween Spooktacular!
The Walt Disney Family Museum, The Presidio of San Francisco, 104 Montgomery St.
Calling all ghosts, ghouls, and witches for a Halloween scare! Come dressed in your best and surprise all the rest at The Walt Disney Family Museum’s frightfully fun event. Crafts, costumes and games galore will be in store. For information visit www.waltdisney.org or call 415-345-6800.

Oct. 31, 2011, 6-8 p.m.
Halloween Costume Dinner
Passion Café, 28 Sixth St.
Come in costume (there’s a $50 Passion Café gift card waiting for the person in the best costume) and enjoy a $10 (at the door) dinner with free Halloween dessert and one glass of champagne. For information visit www.passioncafe.net or call
415-437-9730.

Oct. 31, 2011, 7 p.m.
Teatro ZinZombie - A Macabre Ball at Teatro ZinZanni
Pier 29, The Embarcadero at Battery and Lombard streets
Teatro ZinZanni presents the final Teatro ZinZombie on Halloween Night 2011 in the diabolically decorated Spiegeltent. “Bloody” Halloween cocktails, ghoulish face painting and death defying acts will entice you to slowly bury yourself in a five–course gourmet meal.  Bay Area icon Geoff Hoyle and blues phenomenon Duffy Bishop bring Teatro ZinZombie to life with “On the Air,” which also stars an international cast of singers, cirque artists and crazy characters.
Tickets start at $117; for information visit www.zinzanni.org or call 415-438-2668.
 
Nov. 2, 2011, 7-10:30 p.m.
Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) and Festival of Altars
24th and Bryant Streets and Garfield Park, 26th Street and Harrison
The annual procession in San Francisco’s Mission District begins at the corner of 24th and Bryant at 7 p.m.  It will continue on Bryant Street, then to Mission, and will end at Garfield Park, Harrison and 26th streets. Participants are invited to bring candles, flowers, photos, food and/or drink and other mementos to place on the altars in celebration of the lives of those now gone. Dia de los Muertos is a traditional Meso-American holiday dedicated to ancestors; it honors both death and the cycle of life. This event is family friendly and free; however, donations are being solicited online to cover the cost of permits. Six local groups have been commissioned to build large-scale community altar installations in Garfield Park,  Day of the Dead Festival of Altars takes place at Garfield Park, 26th Street and Harrison; 75-plus community altars will be created by community members. This is an alcohol-free event. For information visit www.dayofthedeadsf.org.

Nov. 5, 2011, 1 p.m.
Dia de los Muertos Family Concert
Davies Symphony Hall, 201 Van Ness Ave.
The entire family is welcome to this afternoon matinee as the San Francisco Symphony celebrates Mexican music and culture in its fourth annual Day of the Dead Community Concert. Doors open at 1 p.m. and concertgoers may enjoy pre-concert festivities, refreshments and colorful displays celebrating Día de los Muertos in the Davies Symphony Hall lobby. For ticket information, half price for ages 17 and under, visit www.sfsymphony.org or call 415-864-6000.

Walking Tours and Excursions
For a gambol with ghosts, check out these walking tours:  

Chinatown Ghost Tours & Magic, 7:30 p.m.  (by reservation only)
Tours meet at Four Seas Restaurant, 731 Grant Ave.
Tours for people who love mystery, but aren’t afraid of the dark; walking tours visit the haunts of the oldest Chinatown in the United States and prowl historic byways and alleys to reveal more about Chinese myths and mystery. Includes magic show by famed Magician Tamaka. $48 adults, $24 for ages 17 and under. To make reservations and for information, call 415-793-1183 or 877-887-3373 or visit www.sfchinatownghosttours.com.

San Francisco Ghost Hunt at The Queen Anne Hotel, 7 p.m. nightly (except Tuesdays)
1590 Sutter St.
Stories of a friendly ghost at The Queen Anne Hotel come from its origin as Miss Mary Lake's Finishing School For Girls. The former head of the school, Miss Mary Lake, disappeared shortly after the school closed. Some locals believe that she never left her role as caretaker and still looks after people at the hotel today, specifically overnight guests in Room 410 where she used to live. Ghost hunters are encouraged to dress warmly. $20, $10 for ages 15 and younger; not recommended for ages eight and under. Tours meet in the lobby of The Queen Anne. For details call 415-922-5590 or visit www.sfghosthunt.com.

San Francisco Vampire Tour, 8 p.m.
Nob Hill
Mina Harker a.k.a. Kitty Nasarow leads a two-hour San Francisco Vampire Tour departing from the corner of California and Taylor streets. Stops include Grace Cathedral, Huntington Park, the Pacific-Union Club, Fairmont and Mark Hopkins hotels. $20 per mortal; $15 ages students or 60 and over. For information, call 650-279-1840 or 866-4-BITTEN (424-8836) or visit www.sfvampiretour.com.

San Francisco City Guides
Two tours with a hint of mystery are offered by San Francisco City Guides; for details on dates and times, visit www.sfcityguides.org:  

Ghost Walk
City Hall, 1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Place
Disinterred remains, assassinations and other ghostly lore form the focus of this free tour offered by City Guides. The history and architecture of this handsomely restored building are revealed, plus little-known facts such as the cemetery once located here. Who (or what else) might be walking beside you? Enter through Goodlett Place (formerly Polk Street) doors; meet in South Light Court. “Travel lightly,” as full security will be in force.

Ghost Walk at the Palace Hotel
Palace Hotel, 2 New Montgomery St.
Kings and presidents died here; gunshots echoed through stately corridors, romances ended tragically. Perhaps that explains enduring stories of spectral visions and mysterious occurrences.

Pumpkin Picking
If your visit to San Francisco includes a trip to the nearest pumpkin patch, here are a couple of candidates: Ferry Plaza Farmer’s Market; Seventh Avenue and Lawton; Nineteenth Avenue and Sloat Boulevard.

The folks at the Sonoma County Farm Trails have a number of terrific sites for U-Pick pumpkins; for locations and directions, visit www.farmtrails.org or telephone 800-207-9464.

More Pumpkin Patch Lore
Parents looking for slightly spooking reading material to get the family in the mood for Halloween should check out the Web site of the San Francisco Public Library for suggested reading for younger readers, www.sfpl.org. Branch libraries also feature everything from Halloween sing-a-longs to magic shows.

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For general information on hotel packages and reservations; events; activities and transportation in San Francisco, visit www.sanfrancisco.travel. For lodging reservations, call 800-637-5196 within North America or 415-391-2000 or 415-392-0328 (TTY/TTD) elsewhere.
 
The San Francisco Visitors Planning Guide is available at the Visitor Information Center, 900 Market St., at the corner of Powell and Market streets, lower level, Hallidie Plaza.  A virtual edition of the guide is also available online: http://guides.weaver-group.com/sf/ovg/2011.   A visitor's kit may also be ordered online at www.sanfrancisco.travel, by phone at 415-391-2000 or 415-392-0328 (TTY/TTD), by written request to the San Francisco Visitor Information Center, 900 Market St., San Francisco, CA 94102, or via email to vic1@sanfrancisco.travel.  Domestic and international shipping charges apply.

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10.10.2011