Halloween in San Diego is a citywide costume contest, and a few neighborhoods own the night. The Gaslamp Quarter turns Fifth Avenue into a sea of costumes — the Tipsy Crow and the big Fifth Avenue clubs throw the marquee parties. Hillcrest throws Nightmare on Normal Street, a huge Halloween block party, with Urban Mo's at the center. And the beach bars in Pacific Beach like PB Shore Club and 710 Beach Club draw a big, costumed crowd. The trick is knowing which is already shoulder-to-shoulder.
The costume picks.
How to use the live map.
Halloween often falls on a random weeknight, but the crowds show up like it's a Saturday. The Jellyfish live map shows which costume parties are already packed versus which still have room, so you and the group land somewhere with space for the whole crew — capes and all.
Frequently asked questions.
Where are the best Halloween parties in San Diego?
The Gaslamp Quarter throws the biggest costume parties — Fifth Avenue bars like the Tipsy Crow lead — while Hillcrest hosts Nightmare on Normal Street, a major Halloween block party centered on Urban Mo's. Pacific Beach's beach bars draw a big costumed crowd too.
What is Nightmare on Normal Street?
It's Hillcrest's large Halloween street festival, held on and around Normal Street, with costume contests, vendors, and the neighborhood's bars at full tilt. It's one of San Diego's signature Halloween events and packs the Hillcrest nightlife district.
Where should I go for Halloween in the Gaslamp?
Fifth Avenue is the center of the action — multi-level bars and clubs like the Tipsy Crow host costume parties with DJs and dancing. The whole district fills with costumes on the nearest weekend night, so arrive early or expect a line.