Local Halloween events, the annual Alameda Holiday Boutique, and a KCSM documentary screening
Alameda is a Halloween town, and this year’s celebrations are going to be bigger than ever. Halloween is on a Friday this year, children will be off from school that day, and some trick-or-treating begins just after noon. Stock up on candy, grab your costumes, drive safely, and get ready for some spooky fun. On Friday, October 31, Downtown Alameda’s Trick-or-Treating is scheduled from 1 until 5 p.m. on and around Park Street. Later that day, head over to Webster Street for the Howl-O-Ween Pet Parade and trick-or-treating from 4 until 6:30 p.m. If you’re looking for something new, check out the Bolloween Ball Cruise, a Bollywood Halloween costume party starting from Mariner Square at 8:30 p.m.
The seasons can change pretty quickly, and this weekend is a perfect example. From 10 a.m until 4 p.m. on both Saturday, November 1, and Sunday, November 2, you can dive headfirst into local holiday shopping. Head over to Alameda Point for the 45th Annual Alameda Holiday Boutique. If you’d prefer to take more than an 18-hour break between Halloween and the beginning of the holidays, consider grabbing a ticket for KCSM: 60 Years of Broadcasting and Jazz. The documentary is screening for one day only at Alameda Theatre & Cineplex on Saturday, November 1, at 2 p.m.
Trick-or-Treating in Downtown Alameda
Friday, October 31
If you’re worried about getting your young goblins and ghouls to bed on time, or if you’re just trying to maximize your candy, check out Downtown Alameda’s Trick-or-Treating on Halloween afternoon, Friday, October 31. Make sure to look for the “We Have Candy” window sign to know if a business is participating in the goodies giveaway.
Downtown Alameda businesses will open their doors from 1 until 5 p.m. for trick-or-treating, which could lead to a legendary candy haul for dedicated kids who want to trick-or-treat all day and night. Remember, AUSD is having a Staff Development Day on October 31, so kids will be free to don their costumes and get out early in the day.
“This event is a wonderful example of what makes Downtown Alameda so special,” said Kathy Weber, Executive Director of the Downtown Alameda Business Association. “Our businesses love welcoming families for this fun, community-centered afternoon—it’s a great way to celebrate Halloween safely while supporting local shops.”
Be sure to check out Alameda Avenue for music, games, and entertainment.
Howl-O-Ween Pet Parade
Friday, October 31
The West Alameda Business Association (WABA) invites pets, their owners, and Halloween-enthusiasts to the Howl-O-Ween Pet Parade on Friday, October 31. Meet at Webster Park, 1435 Webster Street, to get in on the fun from 4 until 6:30 p.m.
Pets are encouraged to dress in their Halloween best for the pet parade and costume contest. Trick-or-treat with your kids along Webster Street and check out the local pet businesses selling their wares. Don’t miss the portraits to capture the special day, and see if your new best friend is waiting for you at the Friends of the Alameda Animal Shelter (FAAS) station.
The schedule for the event is as follows:
- 4-4:30 p.m.: Registration.
- 4:30-5 p.m.: Costume contest judging and runway.
- 5-5:30 p.m.: Pet Parade and trick-or-treating to Diggity Dog.
- 5:30-5:50 p.m.: Awards, prizes, and snacks at Diggity Dog.
- 5:50-6:10 p.m.: Partner and FAAS spotlight, plus final photos.
Register your pet online in advance for free. Costume categories include Best in Show, Scariest Costume, Cutest Costume, Best Duo or Group/Pack Costume, and the DIY Award for handmade costumes.
Bolloween Ball Cruise
Friday, October 31
If you’re looking to turn off your porch light and party all night this Halloween, Instant Karma has you covered. The Bay Area events planning team is pulling out all the stops for their 5th Annual Bollywood Masquerade Party Bolloween Ball Cruise. Board the party boat at 2394 Mariner Square Drive beginning at 8:30 p.m., and be prepared to party until midnight.
Guests will experience the luxury and charm of Fume Blanc, a replica of a New York State Hudson River steamboat operated by Luxe Cruises and Events. Wander through three decks of entertainment for food, music, dancing, and live entertainment. Be sure to dress to impress, because the Costume Contest will be handing out big cash prizes. Throughout the evening, the boat will travel around the beautiful San Francisco Bay.
Unlike most luxury cruising events, this party is open to guests of all ages. General Admission tickets are $96.81, and discounted group rates are available. Reserve your spot online.
45th Annual Alameda Holiday Boutique
Saturday, November 1 and Sunday, November 2
Get ready to check off your holiday shopping lists—or buy something special for yourself! A local island favorite is back with the 45th Annual Alameda Holiday Boutique at the Albert H. DeWitt Officers’ Club (O’Club) 641 West Redline Avenue, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday, November 1 and 2.
From gourmet foods to handmade ornaments, there’s something for everyone. Get a sneak peek of this year’s craftspeople on the Meet Our 2025 Artisans page. This year’s boutique boasts more than 70 vendors!
Admission is free, and ample parking is available. The boutique will feature lots of community organizations, including Alameda Meals on Wheels, Mastick Senior Center, Girl Scout Troops 33374 & 33048, Boy Scout Troop 11, and Girl Scouts Troops 31891. Be sure to stop by their respective booths for everything from Italian sodas to Christmas tree pick-up services.
KCSM: 60 Years of Broadcasting and Jazz Screening
Saturday, November 1
The California Historical Radio Society (CHRS) invites you to a special screening of KCSM: 60 Years of Broadcasting and Jazz at Alameda Theatre & Cineplex, 2317 Central Avenue, on Saturday, November 1. The documentary film screening begins at 2 p.m. Afterwards, attendees are invited to take the five-minute walk to CHRS, 2152 Central Avenue, for a reception, refreshments, and free tours.
KCSM-TV first went on the air on October 16, 1964, as the College of San Mateo built out their broadcasting program. KCSM Channel 14 and KCSM-FM launched later, making San Mateo a competitive school for broadcasting training. Over time, the radio station carved out a niche for jazz music, and they’re still serenading listeners to this day.
Alamedans now have a special tie to the radio station, as Alameda PostCast host Scott Piehler highlights local Islanders on The Alameda Connection, which airs on KCSM-HD2 on Sundays at 8 a.m. (Follow The Alameda Connection on Instagram or YouTube for more information and to catch the replays.)
Reserve your ticket for the screening online in advance to secure your spot. Ticket prices range from $11.50 to $26.50 depending on age and seat type. If you can’t make it to the screening, the documentary is available to watch online (three-day pay-per-view) for $25.
Amanda Laird is the Content Manager and Events Editor of the Alameda Post. Her writing is collected at AlamedaPost.com/Amanda-Laird. Reach her at [email protected].
