Discover nature’s strange and mysterious side with live snakes, taxidermy demonstrations, spooky crafts and a Cabinet of Curiosity exhibit. Costumes are encouraged, and museum admission is free all day.

Dress up for a Halloween train ride and enjoy pumpkin decorating, character photos, live entertainment, bounce houses and a bubble station. The event runs on selected weekends Oct. 10-11, 17-18 and 24-25; reserve a train departure time.

Make a splash while searching for a Halloween pumpkin in the pool, then decorate it with seasonal crafts. Enjoy swimming, games, prizes and family activities.

Enjoy costumed dancers performing Michael Jackson’s Thriller, first downtown and then beside the bay at the Wharf.

Settle in for an outdoor screening of the PG-rated Halloween favorite Hocus Pocus. Bring chairs, blankets and warm layers for a movie beside the bay.

Join the costume parade behind a fire engine and the Soquel High Senior Band. The route winds through the village to Esplanade Park, followed by trick-or-treating at participating shops.

Drop in to decorate a mask inspired by animals, nature or something spooky. All ages are welcome to make a creative addition to their Halloween costumes.

Collect candy from participating Boardwalk businesses and enter the costume photo contest. The package includes a collectible candy bag and a MyBoardwalk Card for games.

Put on your favorite costume and join friends and neighbors for a Halloween celebration with candy and festive fun in Aptos Village.

Trick-or-treat at Wharf businesses, enjoy a festive photo backdrop and watch a Thriller dance performance. Families can also take part in the Great Pumpkin Scavenger Hunt.