Santa Fe’s Halloween season offers plenty of opportunities for family fun, from a garden celebration on October 18 to Día de los Muertos on the Santa Fe Plaza on October 30–31.
As someone born and raised here, this is one of my favorite times of year. Fall brings cooler weather, colorful landscapes, and community events throughout Santa Fe. Alongside Halloween activities, the city also celebrates Día de los Muertos, a distinct tradition honoring loved ones who have passed.
Events take place at historic ranches, gardens, and museums, giving families opportunities to enjoy art, history, science, and community throughout the season.
Here’s a look at several family-friendly events happening in Santa Fe this October.
Halloween Events for Kids, in Date Order
Family Halloween Fest at Santa Fe Botanical Garden — Sunday, October 18
This is a wonderful option for families with younger children.
From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., the Santa Fe Botanical Garden at 715 Camino Lejo on Museum Hill hosts Halloween-themed crafts and activities, face painting, and a visit from the Santa Fe Raptor Center.
The atmosphere is festive and family-friendly, making it an appealing way to celebrate without the scares of a traditional haunted attraction.
It’s a ticketed event, and children ages 3 and under attend free. Every adult and child needs to be registered, so advance registration is recommended.
Event details and registration — Santa Fe Botanical Garden
Spirits of New Mexico at El Rancho de las Golondrinas — Friday and Saturday, October 23–24
For something a little spookier, head to El Rancho de las Golondrinas at 334 Los Pinos Road, just south of Santa Fe.
This popular evening event runs from 5 to 9 p.m. on both October 23 and 24.
Farolito-lit paths wind through historic buildings, where costumed spirits share stories from New Mexico’s past. Families can enjoy storytelling, live entertainment, bonfires, and s’mores.
The atmosphere is family-friendly but intentionally spooky, so parents may want to consider whether younger children would enjoy the experience.
Tickets must be purchased online in advance. The organizer notes that tickets will not be sold at the gate and encourages early booking.
Event information and tickets — El Rancho de las Golondrinas
Weird Science Halloween Bash at Santa Fe Children’s Museum — Tuesday, October 27
Halloween meets hands-on discovery at the Santa Fe Children’s Museum.
From 3 to 6 p.m., families can visit the museum at 1050 Old Pecos Trail for its Weird Science Halloween Bash.
Children are encouraged to dress in costume, trick-or-treat throughout the museum, and explore Halloween-themed science activities.
It’s a ticketed fundraising event benefiting the Santa Fe Children’s Museum, making it an opportunity to enjoy an afternoon of activities while supporting a local educational organization.
Event details and tickets — Santa Fe Children’s Museum
Día de los Muertos on the Santa Fe Plaza — Friday and Saturday, October 30–31
Santa Fe’s Día de los Muertos celebration brings music, art, and community together on the historic Plaza.
This free, two-day event takes place:
Friday, October 30: 4–10 p.m.
Saturday, October 31: 11 a.m.–10 p.m.
Families can enjoy mariachi performances, traditional entertainment, colorful decorations, community ofrendas, and food vendors.
Día de los Muertos is a tradition of remembrance, honoring family members and loved ones who have passed away. For families who are interested in learning more, the celebration offers a meaningful opportunity to experience how this tradition is observed in Santa Fe.
This year’s celebration also incorporates a Route 66 centennial theme, connecting another part of the region’s history with the Plaza festivities.
Admission is free.
Celebration information and schedule — Tourism Santa Fe
Planning Your Halloween Fortnight
There are several ways to enjoy the season without trying to fit everything into one weekend.
Here’s a quick overview to help you plan.
| Date | Event | Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sun, Oct. 18 | Botanical Garden Family Halloween Fest | 11 a.m.–1 p.m. | Younger children, creative activities |
| Fri–Sat, Oct. 23–24 | Spirits of New Mexico, Las Golondrinas | 5–9 p.m. | Families who enjoy a little spooky atmosphere |
| Tue, Oct. 27 | Weird Science Halloween Bash | 3–6 p.m. | Curious, science-minded kids |
| Fri–Sat, Oct. 30–31 | Día de los Muertos on the Plaza | Fri. 4–10 p.m.; Sat. 11 a.m.–10 p.m. | Families interested in cultural celebrations |
You don’t need to do it all.
For younger children, the Botanical Garden offers an earlier, activity-focused celebration. Families looking for a memorable evening might enjoy Las Golondrinas, while the Children’s Museum is a fun option for kids who love exploring and experimenting.
Día de los Muertos on the Plaza offers a different kind of experience, centered on remembrance, cultural traditions, and community.
Some activities are conveniently located near central Santa Fe, while others require a separate drive. Check locations, ticket availability, parking, and event schedules before heading out.
Happy Halloween from Barker Realty
From fall gardens to farolito-lit paths at Las Golondrinas and the colorful celebration on the Plaza, Santa Fe offers families many ways to enjoy this season.
I hope you and your family have a wonderful Halloween filled with fun, meaningful experiences, and time together.
If you’re considering a move to Santa Fe, or thinking about your next chapter here, I’d love to help.
I’m Lori Montoya, a Santa Fe native and local Realtor with Barker Realty.
Call or text me at (505) 577-8750.
Honest. Local. Personal. The way real estate should be!