An air of mystery shrouds the night, something stirs between the light, the wind whispers through the trees, could it be the Pumpkin Queen?
On the sixth anniversary of Isla Vista’s Halloween Pumpkin Patch, Anisq’Oyo’ Park will be transformed into an illuminated wonderland filled with spooky delights, offering an immersive pumpkin patch experience, 7-11 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, Oct. 28-29.
Attendees will be challenged to discover hidden clues about a legendary garden grove whose ancient magic is key to ensuring the park’s future, Isla Vista Recreation & Park District (IVRPD) organizers said.
Costumed actors will enlist the help of community members to rally together in a storyline filled with plot twists that leads them to taking home a free pumpkin from the pumpkin patch.
The silent disco will also be back for two nights in Cool Corner near Embarcadero Hall, supported by UCSB Associated Students Program Board. The free event will offer carnival games, a photo booth, and a 3D blacklight experience.
The first night will feature a Wildfire Arts Entertainment performance, as well as flash mob performances from World Dance for Humanity.
On the second night, IVRPD will host a Costume Contest featuring a grand prize of $750. Register in advance online at https://forms.gle/CfcFHe4E6cSerHSg6.
Note that the contest is limited to 60 entries and participants are encouraged to arrive at 7 p.m. on Oct. 29 to check in at the Anisq’Oyo’ Park Amphitheater. The Costume Contest will begin at 8 p.m.
“Events like this bring neighbors together to celebrate what makes Isla Vista so special. I’m grateful to the Isla Vista Recreation & Park District for creating a fun, welcoming space for families and students to enjoy Halloween and build lasting community connections,” said 2nd District Supervisor Laura Capps.
“The Halloween Pumpkin Patch is a beloved Isla Vista tradition, and it’s wonderful to see our community come together for such a unique and memorable experience,” said Kimberly Kiefer, general manager.
“I’m incredibly proud of our staff and partners for their creativity and dedication in bringing this event to life year after year,” she said.
IVRPD is hosting this event in partnership with the Environment Makers, Flying Shade, and Fishbon.
IVRPD thanks Miller Event Management for their security services and keeping everyone safe during the event, as well as Big Wave Dave for supplying the pumpkins for the Pumpkin Patch.
A separate Día de Los Muertos event will be held 5-8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 6 at St. George Youth Center, 889 Camino Del Sur in Isla Vista.
Week-long community ofrendas will be displayed at the site during the week leading up to the event. Email ivrpd@ivparks.org to learn more.
IVRPD encourages guests to attend the Halloween Pumpkin Patch by bicycle, skateboard, foot, bus (direct routes to the park include Santa Barbara MTD Lines 11, 15x, 25x, and 27), or by other means of alternative transportation.
Guests may request ADA accommodations by emailing ivrpd@ivparks.org or calling 805-968-2017.