Halloween in Orange County, CA - Are You Ready?

A long time ago, when my adult kids were young, I looked for alternative ways for them to enjoy Halloween. They grew up when "candy spiking" began. Fortunately, I was far from the only parent who didn't want my kids knocking on peoples doors, in the dark, on windy nights. My husband and I found that we were within a ten minute drive of not one, but two local malls that had "Trick-or-treating" going on.

That's what we did. The kids would dress up, we'd load them into our mini-van and cruise the mall. Inside-lights, camera and action. It insured us safe candy, safe environment and a lit area. The kids loved it. We loved it. And after the mall stroll, we'd go to the fast food venue of our choice and have dinner. This was an even bigger treat, since we didn't eat this type of food very often.

It became our tradition.

Today, all of the Orange County malls have trick-or-treating. Usually held from 5-8 (but do call to check for exact timings) the kids go from store to store having candy, coupons, bits of store goodies tossed into their waiting treasure bags. Every mall from the rejuvenated Huntington Beach Center to the upscale South Coast Plaza and Newport Beach's Fashion Island.

But there are many other events in the county. Here are just a few to check into:

The Discovery Science Center in Santa Ana. They are having a "spooky science" display and experiments. Trick-or-Treat bags will be handed out. Hours are scheduled to be from 10-5, so the kids can still hit the neighboring Santa Ana Main Place Mall afterward.

The Bowers Museum of Cultural Art in Santa Ana will have an exhibition of over 140 pieces of occult objects including mummies and coffins. Hours change frequently-call ahead!

The Old World Village in Huntington Beach is known more for celebrating Oktoberfest-but they'll be having some fun things for the non-drinking younger guests as well. Oompah!

Knott's Berry Farm will be holding their usual Haunted Halloween Celebration in Buena Park. 160 acres of horror movie characters, mazes and shows.
The entrance fee is fairly significant but this is quite a famous county party that many have made their own tradition.

Disneyland Resort complex in Anaheim will have interactive activities and their whimsical decorations up for all to enjoy. And since this is outside the park, it's all for the cost of what the parking structure is charging.

Several cities are having their community centers holding parties and activities for both the young and the young at heart. Most notably Aliso Viejo, Laguna Niguel and Laguna Hills.

So yes, Halloween is practically upon us-but that doesn't mean we have to cover up our costumes and hope our kids come home with safe eats-we can make sure they have a great time and start even more new holiday traditions.