SeaWorld San Diego Brings Back Spooktacular Halloween Celebration
SeaWorld San Diego will once again transform into an autumn wonderland with the return of Spooktacular, the park’s family-friendly Halloween celebration. The event runs Fridays through Sundays from Sept. 5 to Nov. 2 and is included with regular park admission.
Guests can enjoy Halloween-themed attractions, trick-or-treating, and meet-and-greets with whimsical characters such as pirates, mermaids and spooky skeletons.
New Entertainment and Activities for 2025
This year’s Spooktacular introduces several new characters and experiences designed to delight families:
Spookley the Square Pumpkin Celebration – At the Waterfront, guests can meet Spookley and his companion Jack Scarecrow. The duo hosts interactive story times, dance parties and meet-and-greets.
Spooktacular DJ Set – Between Spookley shows, a family-friendly DJ will keep the party going with lively fall tunes.
Bone Brothers Talking Skull Quartet – Upon entry, guests are greeted by a comical quartet of skeletons performing Halloween-themed music and witty banter.
Heckling Pirate Talking Skulls – Along the treat trail, visitors will encounter a pair of mischievous pirate skulls known for their cheeky humor.
Returning Fan Favorites
Beloved features from past years are back, offering guests more ways to celebrate:
Waterfront Pumpkin Patch – A popular photo spot with scenic Mission Bay views, fall décor and seasonal treats.
Magical Mermaids – Now located at Rescue Jr., these characters offer memorable photo opportunities and meet-and-greets.
Scurvy Squad Pirate Shanty Band – Performing at the SkyTower Lawn Stage, this lively group entertains with sea shanties and pirate antics.
Captain Sweet Tooth and First Mate Peggy – The humorous skeleton duo returns to Bayside Lawn, sharing tales of haunted treasure hunts and candy quests.
Royal Guard Talking Skulls – Found near the SkyTower, these talking skulls add a regal twist to the spooky fun.
O.P. Otter’s Spooktacular Surprise – SeaWorld’s mascot hosts a high-energy costume party for young guests at Mission Bay Theater.
Trick-or-Treat Trail – Children in costume can collect candy at 10 stations open from 4 to 7 p.m. on Fridays, and from 1 to 7 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.
Reusable candy bags are available for purchase. Guests 13 and older may not wear costume masks or hoods, and all costumes must adhere to the park’s dress code. Face painting is only allowed when done by park artists.
Día de los Muertos Celebration
On Nov. 1 and 2, SeaWorld will honor Día de los Muertos with colorful Catrina statues, traditional ofrendas (altars), marigolds, papel picado, and Latin music. The celebration blends cultural education with immersive visual displays, offering a meaningful experience for all ages.
Kids Go Free Promotion
For a limited time, children ages 3 to 9 can receive free one-day admission with the purchase of an adult ticket, valid through Oct. 31, 2025. Guests can also take advantage of a Buy One, Get One 50% Off Annual Pass offer at seaworldsandiego.com. Pass Members receive benefits including free parking, guest tickets, discounts on food and merchandise, and early access to new attractions.
Howl-O-Scream Returns Sept. 12
After dark, SeaWorld’s separate-ticketed event, Howl-O-Scream, returns on select nights Sept. 12 through Nov. 1. Designed for guests ages 13 and older, the event features haunted houses, scare zones, live entertainment and night rides.
New this year are immersive experiences, including themed bars and hidden speakeasies offering signature drinks and exclusive entertainment.
For More Information
For tickets, park hours and event details, visit seaworldsandiego.com, or follow SeaWorld San Diego on Facebook and Instagram.