Top Things to Do in East Bay: Pumpkin Events and Eclipse Viewing in 2023

The East Bay is a hub of activity in October 2023, offering a delightful mix of pumpkin-themed events and celestial wonders. Here's a detailed guide to ensure you make the most of the season.

Pumpkin Events to Attend


SF’s Free Union Square Pumpkin Patch (2023)

• When: Saturday, October 14, 2023, 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm
• Where: Union Square Park, San Francisco, CA
• Cost: FREE*
  Get your tickets here

Union Square transforms into a festive haven with its Bloom to Harvest concert, marking the end of the Union Square in Bloom 2023 event. With activities ranging from a Bar Garden to a Bloomies Award Show, it promises a day of fun and celebration. The highlight is the giveaway of 200 free pumpkins. Music enthusiasts can look forward to a performance by the renowned Bill Ortiz, a former member of Santana. More Info & Reserve a Pumpkin

51st Annual Half Moon Bay Art & Pumpkin Festival

• When: October 14-15, 2023, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
• Where: Historic Main Street, Half Moon Bay, CA
• Cost: FREE

Half Moon Bay, the World Pumpkin Capital, is celebrating its 51st Art & Pumpkin Festival. The event promises a visual treat with Volkswagen-sized champion pumpkins and a plethora of activities, including the Great Pumpkin Parade and live music across four stages. For art lovers, the festival showcases harvest-inspired crafts by top American artists. Full Schedule

Westbrae Pumpkin Patch 2023 in North Berkeley + Fall Bake Sale

• When: October 1-31, 2023, 9:00 am to 5:30 pm
• Where: Westbrae Nursery, Berkeley, CA
• Cost: FREE*

Westbrae Nursery, a cooperative in North Berkeley, offers a serene pumpkin patch experience. With all pumpkin sales benefiting the local Cornell elementary school, it's a blend of community spirit and festive fun. The nursery is also hosting bake sales on October 14 and 21, offering delectable fall-themed baked goods. Details

SF’s India Basin “Fall Fest” 2023

• When: Sunday, October 15, 2023, 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm
• Where: India Basin Shoreline Park, San Francisco, CA
• Cost: FREE*

The India Basin Fall Festival is more than just a pumpkin event. From free kayaking to a car show and a special hip-hop concert, it promises a day of diverse entertainment. The festival also marks the kickoff for the Hip Hop in the Park Initiative, aiming to bring a series of workshops and activations to the park. More Info

Eclipse Viewing Events


Chabot Space & Science Center’s Solar Eclipse Viewing Watch Party & Festivities

• When: Saturday, October 14, 2023, 7:30 am to 3:00 pm
• Where: Chabot Space & Science Center, Oakland, CA
• Cost: $30
  Get your tickets here

Chabot Space & Science Center offers a unique opportunity to witness the annular solar eclipse. Apart from the viewing, the center has organized a series of eclipse-themed demonstrations, guest speaker sessions, and planetarium shows. The highlight is the presentation by Gerald McKeegan on the intricacies of the annular eclipse. Tickets & Details

Free Solar Eclipse Viewing w/ 8″ Telescope (SF)

• When: Saturday, October 14, 2023, 8:00 am to 11:00 am
• Where: Sage and Drifter bar, San Francisco, CA
• Cost: FREE*

Hosted by astronomer Steve White, this event offers a chance to view the solar eclipse through a professional 8” telescope. Alongside the live viewing, attendees can also watch streaming feeds from various US locations, capturing the eclipse in its full glory. Details

Lawrence Hall of Science’s Annual Solar Eclipse Viewing Party

• When: Saturday, October 14, 2023, 8:30 am to 10:00 am
• Where: Lawrence Hall of Science, Berkeley, CA
• Cost: $20
  Get your tickets here

Dive deep into the science behind the “Ring of Fire” eclipse at the Lawrence Hall of Science. The event not only offers a viewing party but also a series of solar activities. Dr. Sam Walton's talk on solar winds is a must-attend for those curious about the mysteries of our sun. More Info

Free Solar Eclipse Viewing with The Exploratorium

• When: Saturday, October 14, 2023, 9:00 am to 10:45 am
• Where: Pier 15, San Francisco, CA
• Cost: FREE

The Exploratorium offers an outdoor viewing experience of the annular solar eclipse. With educators on hand to guide and engage, it's a family-friendly event. For those who can't make it in person, the Exploratorium offers a live broadcast of the eclipse from prime locations. Details & App Download

With such a rich array of events, East Bay ensures October 2023 will be a month to remember. Whether you're a pumpkin enthusiast or a stargazer, there's something for everyone.