1440 By The Bay Blog

Halloween Activities for Adults and Grandkids in Emeryville, CA

Written by The Bay | Oct 24, 2025 4:00:06 AM

Emeryville, CA, offers many opportunities for intergenerational Halloween fun, such as trick-or-treating, pumpkin patches, and walks. Indoor options include pumpkin decorating, games, crafts, and movie nights.

According to Britannica, Halloween had its origins in the festival of Samhain, which the Celts of ancient Britain and Ireland celebrated. Since then, it's evolved into a thrilling holiday where people get dressed up, go trick-or-treating, participate in parades, and party the night away.

There are plenty of Halloween activities for adults in Emeryville, CA, but what about intergenerational activities? Fortunately, the city still has numerous fun things to do for people of all ages.

Read on to see what you can do with your grandchildren during Halloween this year.

Community Halloween Events in Emeryville

If you reside in a senior living community, there may already be assisted living events you can participate in. But what's out there in Emeryville?

City-Sponsored Trick-or-Treating

There are several community trick-or-treat routes that seniors and grandkids can join in on. They usually feature safe, well-lit sidewalks and family-friendly decorations.

The businesses on the route hand out candy, so it's a nice and lively downtown experience.

Pumpkin Patches and Farms

Emeryville is urban, but there are short trips you can take out of the city. For example, you can go to the neighboring cities of Albany or Richmond, where there are pumpkin patches and farms. You can:

  • Pick pumpkins
  • Enjoy hayrides
  • Sip cider

Outdoor Halloween Activities for Seniors and Grandkids

If the weather's nice, then there are many outdoor activities you can enjoy with the grandkids.

One is having a Halloween walk at Marina Park. Take a gentle stroll in your costumes while having many photo opportunities with the San Francisco Bay in the background.

Or you can host sidewalk costume parades in the neighborhood. You can sit on the porch while you cheer for the neighborhood kids. Or join in by wearing festive hats and light-up accessories!

To make things more accessible, you can have backyard trick-or-treating. Decorate your backyard or patio, and then the kids can go door-to-door at different "stations."

What Are Indoor Halloween Activities for Adults and Grandkids?

Just because it's a holiday doesn't necessarily mean that you have to spend it outdoors. The weather might be suboptimal, you might be low on energy, or you might have mobility issues. Whatever the reason, you can have a safe and cozy Halloween indoors if you wish, and it's the perfect opportunity to create new family-friendly fall traditions.

For instance, you and your grandchildren can carve or decorate pumpkins. If you don't want to use sharp tools, then opt for:

  • Paint
  • Stickers
  • Glitter

Or you can do spooky storytelling. You can share ghost stories from your childhood or read kid-friendly Halloween tales to the little ones.

Crafts and Cooking

Senior holiday crafts are ideal since you can have quality bonding time with loved ones while creating things to treasure for years to come. One idea to start with is DIYing your costumes by using household materials. Not only can this save money, but you can also exercise your creativity.

You can also make paper plate ghosts and bats with everyone. It's an easy, mess-free craft where you only need paper plates, markers, and string.

In addition, you can get creative in the kitchen. Make orange-colored Rice Krispie balls and shape them into mini pumpkins. The grandkids can then add green candy stems to complete the look. Or you can make homemade caramel apples, letting the little ones roll the apples in sprinkles or crushed cookies.

Movies and Music

For a quieter holiday, play family-friendly Halloween movies, such as:

  • It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown
  • Casper
  • Hocus Pocus

Memory care celebrations often have music, and it's great for children too. Put on a Halloween playlist and dance around!

What Are Some Fun Games for a Halloween Party?

Fun games you can have during Halloween parties include:

  • Halloween bingo
  • Guess What's in the Box?
  • Candy corn relay
  • Pumpkin ring toss

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are There Senior-Friendly Halloween Events in Emeryville?

Yes, there are plenty of senior-friendly Halloween events in Emeryville, including the ones in this article. Most specifically, many community centers often have all-ages events that are accessible and safe for everyone.

What's a Safe Trick-or-Treating Option for Seniors Who Can't Walk Long Distances?

Many families have backyard or indoor trick-or-treat stations. This makes it easy for grandkids to still participate in Halloween activities without tiring out their grandparents. So you and your grandchildren can set up a station of your own!

Can Emeryville Seniors Volunteer During Halloween Events?

Volunteering is an excellent way to enhance your retirement, and you may be wondering if there are Halloween volunteer opportunities. Luckily, there are! You can:

  • Hand out candy
  • Judge costume contests
  • Help with craft stations at community events

How Can I Make Halloween Accessible for Seniors With Mobility Issues?

Seniors with mobility issues will need extra assistance and accommodations. You should follow community safety tips for protecting seniors with dementia in public spaces. In addition, you can choose seated activities, like:

  • Bingo
  • Pumpkin painting
  • Movie nights

If you're going outdoors, then ensure that you use flat, well-lit spaces.

Are There Sensory-Friendly Halloween Activities Near Emeryville?

Yes, there are several sensory-friendly Halloween activities near Emeryville. Check with community centers and libraries in the Bay Area, as these will have softer lighting and quieter environments. They're perfect for children and seniors who are sensitive to noise or crowds.

What Are Good Halloween Treats That Both Seniors and Kids Can Enjoy?

Festive snacks that are suitable for all ages include:

  • Soft cookies
  • Pudding cups with gummy worms
  • Sugar-free candy options

Do These Halloween Activities for Adults and Grandkids

Now you have an outstanding list of Halloween activities for adults and grandkids in Emeryville. So get together with your loved ones, go over the options, and put together a day schedule that's packed with fun!

To schedule a tour at a senior living community in Emeryville, CA, contact us today. 1440 By The Bay has a special dining program that accommodates most dietary requirements and restrictions, and all chef-created menus are certified by a registered dietician.