Must-Visit Fall Festivals in the Bay Area: Glass Pumpkins, Giant Gourds & More!
Fall season in the Bay Area is filled with vibrant festivals, from stunning glass pumpkin displays to lively harvest celebrations. Whether you’re a lover of fine art, pumpkins, or simply soaking in the seasonal charm, these Bay Area fall festivals 2025 offer a variety of experiences for everyone. Get ready for fall fun, family-friendly activities, and unforgettable memories!
The Magical Glass Pumpkin Patch — Los Gatos
When: Saturday, September 20, 2025, 9 AM–5 PM & Sunday, September 21, 9 AM–3 PM
Where: Los Gatos High School, Los Gatos, CA
Admission: Free
Why Visit: The Magical Glass Pumpkin Patch in Los Gatos transforms the lawn of Los Gatos High School into a sparkling sea of thousands of locally made art glass pumpkins. Every piece is on display and available for purchase, with prices starting at just $25—making it easy for every budget. Admission is free, and sales directly support local artists and art programs.
More than just shopping, this festival is a beloved community tradition. Meet phenomenal Bay Area glass artists, and discover one-of-a-kind designs perfect for your fall décor or holiday gifts—complete with free gift wrapping. Kids are welcome, making it a family-friendly day of inspiration, art, and autumn fun.
More Info: Website
Great Glass Pumpkin Patch — Palo Alto
When: Saturday & Sunday, September 27-28, 2025, 10 AM-5 PM
Where: Palo Alto Art Center
Admission: Free
What’s Special: Experience the magic of California’s largest Great Glass Pumpkin Patch, featuring over 10,000 hand-crafted glass pumpkins in every color, size, and shape. For more than 30 years, talented artists have spent months creating these stunning pieces, making it a must-see autumn event. Explore the dazzling display, meet the artists, and support local art, with a portion of sales benefiting the Bay Area Glass Institute and Palo Alto Art Center Foundation.
More Info: Website
Santa Cruz Live Oak Glass Pumpkin Patch — Santa Cruz
When: Saturday & Sunday, September 27–28, 2025, 10 AM – 4 PM
Where: 1900 17th Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA
Admission: Free
Event Highlights: The annual Live Oak Glass Pumpkin Patch returns for one weekend only! Browse beautiful hand-made glass pumpkins, gourds, and witches’ hats in dazzling colors and all sizes—crafted at the Davenport glassblowing studio. Enjoy the outdoor garden, admire the artistry, and shop unique pieces for every budget. Free parking available at the Grange lot.
More Info: Website
Santana Row Glass Pumpkin Festival — San Jose
When: October 3–5, 2025
Friday, (Oct 3) 3 pm – 9 pm
Saturday, (Oct 4) 10 am – 9 pm
Sunday, (Oct 5) 10 am – 5 pm
Where: Santana Row Park, near Left Bank Brasserie, 377 Santana Row, San Jose, CA
Admission: Free
Event Highlights: Celebrate fall at Santana Row’s annual Glass Pumpkin Patch, featuring thousands of hand-blown pumpkins by BAGI artists and top glass artisans from across the country. Discover unique, colorful pumpkins in all sizes—perfect for gifts, seasonal décor, or year-round display. This one-of-a-year event is a must-visit for art lovers and pumpkin enthusiasts alike!
More Info: Website
Half Moon Bay Art & Pumpkin Festival — Half Moon Bay
When: October 18-19, 2025, 9 AM-5 PM
Where: Main Street, Half Moon Bay, CA
Admission: Free
Why You’ll Love It: This event isn’t focused on glass pumpkins. Instead, it’s classic fall pumpkin-festival fun: giant pumpkin weigh-offs, the Great Pumpkin Parade, costume contests, food & drink vendors, music, art, local crafts, pumpkin patches, and more. It’s family-friendly, community centered, festive in all the best harvest ways.
For more details and to explore the event map, check out their website and plan your visit!
What Makes These Festivals Special—and How to Pick Which to Visit
Glass vs. Traditional Pumpkins: If you’re especially enamored by handcrafted glass art, the first three are your best picks. Half Moon Bay is more for the full fall festival experience: real pumpkins, contests, community spirit.
Timing: The glass pumpkin events tend to begin in late September through early October; Half Moon Bay comes a bit later (mid-October). Planning ahead matters: for glass events, arriving early often gives you access to the best pieces.
Family & Budget Friendly: All of these are free to enter (Magical, Palo Alto, Santana Row) except you’ll pay for anything you buy. Half Moon Bay also is free entry but expect more money spent on rides, contests, or festival food.
Gifts, Décor & Keepsakes: If your goal is finding something unique—hand-blown glass pumpkins, artisanal work, seasonal décor—the glass festivals shine. But if you want memories, fair rides, parade glitz, or giant pumpkins to say “I went,” Half Moon Bay delivers the full autumn vibe.
Want More Fall Fun?
If these festivals caught your eye, you might also enjoy related blog posts on:
🎃 Bay Area Pumpkin Patches 2025
Wishing everyone a happy fall—enjoy the season, the festivals, and all the autumn magic!