Spooky South Bay :In the South Bay, Halloween isn’t just a holiday—it’s a full-blown extravaganza. Each year, front yard displays go above and beyond, turning neighborhoods into spooky wonderlands that rival Hollywood sets.
For many, this tradition is a cherished favorite, and the South Bay offers a plethora of fantastic places to visit for free on Halloween night. From the enchanting to the colossal, the eerie to the rocking, the South Bay knows how to celebrate Halloween with a bang.
Local resident Matthew Howard, who grew up in San Jose, highlights the joy of seeing these incredible displays that neighbors craft in their own front yards. From the Los Pinos Haunted Barbie Land to the Geronimo SJ Fun House and the Harry Potter House of San Jose, the variety is astounding.
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However, there’s a twist to these displays—they’re family-friendly, ensuring that kids of all ages can join in the fun. The wizarding world comes to life on Felder Drive, with storefronts like Honeyduke’s, Olivanders, Flourish and Blotts, and more, recreating the magic of Diagon Alley.
Matthew Howard’s display has become a local sensation, attracting thousands of people each night and raising nearly $10,000 for the Second Harvest Food Bank over the past two years. Beyond the fun and excitement, it’s a way to make a positive impact in the community, addressing food insecurity in the area.
On Church Drive, another remarkable display collects toys for a toy drive with a Halloween Fright Fight-inspired theme: the Ghoulish Goods Factory. Owner Bob Schiro has poured his heart into creating this Halloween wonderland, and between 7,000-8,000 people visit every Halloween night and November 1 to experience the magic firsthand.
These displays, fueled by the energy of the community, exemplify the South Bay’s spirit of celebration and giving on Halloween night.