Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park is bringing back its annual Halloween event, The Great Big BOO, on select evenings from Sept. 25 through Nov. 1. The family-friendly event transforms the park into BOO Alley, featuring live musical performances, night rides, themed light displays, and interactive activities.
Visitors can walk along the BOO Trail for trick-or-treating and attend pop-up performances and character interactions across the grounds. Featured attractions include live sing-and-dance-along musical production The Great Big BOO, Wendella’s House on the Hill, Wolfgang’s Rockin’ Ride, the BOO Train, and the BOO Alley Light Tunnel.
For the 2026 season, the park introduced interactive Pumpkin Wands for purchase that unlock clues at eight stations throughout the park. Children who collect all the letters to spell out a message and stop the curse of Wendella the Witch can receive an “I Saved Halloween!” sticker.
Downtown BOO Alley serves as the central area for the event, offering family games, a giant pumpkin pyramid, and themed food and beverage options. Food items include loaded jumbo potatoes, apple pumpkin spice funnel cake, and hot dogs, alongside themed non-alcoholic beverages and adult cocktails. Guests can also purchase pumpkins at Sammy Jo Scarecrow’s Pumpkin Patch near the exit.
“We can’t wait to welcome families back to The Great Big BOO,” said Hoa Minh Le, Gilroy Gardens president and general manager. “It’s great to see everyone dressed up in costume, and we love creating new tricks and treats for our guests to enjoy each year. It’s not too spooky, mostly silly, and lots of fun for all ages!”
The event runs Fridays from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m., though the park will be closed for a private event on Oct. 10. Discounted admission and parking rates are available during opening weekend for residents of Gilroy, Morgan Hill, San Martin, Hollister, Watsonville, and Salinas with proof of residency.
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