As Southern California Wine Country's vineyards turn from green to red and gold, Temecula Valley is rolling out a fall season packed with harvest celebrations, pumpkin patches, equestrian experiences, and grape stomps. Just a short drive from San Diego and Los Angeles, this autumn getaway offers crisp air, golden vineyards, and classic harvest traditions, giving road-trippers plenty of reasons to turn a day trip into an extended stay.

Vineyards, Pumpkins and Patchwork Charm

  • South Coast Winery & Resort’s 25th Anniversary Bash (Sept. 26): South Coast Winery Resort & Spa is celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2026, marking 25 years since the Carter family founded the property — now the only winery named California State Winery of the Year five times. The milestone includes two commemorative wines, a "Cheers to 25 Years" getaway package, and a free 25th Anniversary Celebration on Saturday, Sept. 26, complete with live music, a local makers market, and an opportunity to compete in a grape stomp.

  • Old Town Temecula Outdoor Quilt Show (Oct. 3): Old Town will come alive with a kaleidoscope of color as handcrafted quilts take center stage in Old Town. Presented by the Valley of the Mist Quilt Guild, this free event features a quilt auction and beautiful outdoor displays from Southern California’s finest quiltmakers.

  • The popular Battle of the Burgers returns to Pechanga Resort Casino on Saturday, Oct. 10, with eight Temecula Valley restaurants competing for the title of best burger in the valley. A collaboration between Visit Temecula Valley, Pechanga Resort Casino, and the Temecula Valley Unified School District, the event pairs high school culinary arts students with Pechanga's executive chefs to create loaded fries recipes, giving students hands-on mentorship alongside the friendly competition. Event proceeds benefit TVUSD's Career Technical Education (CTE) Program, which helps prepare students for careers after high school.

  • Peltzer Pumpkin Farm (Opens Sept. 19): This wildly popular country-chic farm nestled among the vines offers a pick-your-own pumpkin patch alongside pony rides, pig races, carnival games, live music, and plenty of family fun. More information here.

  • A beautiful garden sanctuary located just minutes from Old Town Temecula, the Rose Haven Heritage Garden celebrates its 35th Anniversary Oct. 16-18 honoring decades of beauty, community, and growth. On October 16, the garden will host a ribbon cutting and rededication ceremony. On October 17, “Families and Community in the Garden” will feature interactive activities and educational demonstrations. The celebration will conclude on October 18 with “Art, Music, Poetry, and Dance,” showcasing local artists and performers in a vibrant cultural gathering. More information here.

  • The Temecula Carriage Company's Headless Horseman Haunt offers horse-drawn vineyard rides with a spooky twist, with riders encountering the Headless Horseman and other eerie surprises under a moonlit sky. A variety of experiences can be enjoyed throughout the year, with more information here.

  • Equestrian Showcases at Galway Downs & California Ranch Company: Temecula's rolling countryside has long been a popular hub for equestrian sport. Galway Downs hosts a full slate of fall competitions in show jumping, dressage and eventing, while the California Ranch Company highlights the valley's Western heritage by hosting rodeos, barrel racing competitions, and offering guided trail rides.

  • Old Town Temecula: With its pioneer-era charm, Old Town offers visitors a variety of fun boutiques, farm-to-table eateries, wine tasting rooms, and walkable streets. Inside the Hotel Temecula building, guests can have a custom hat made at Weld + Wool or sip a flight at Big Nose Winery. Nearby, Temecula Olive Oil Company invites visitors to sample its oils, while Temecula Lavender Company offers locally made lavender products. On Saturday mornings, the Farmer's Market at 6th and Front Street rounds out the experience with fresh, locally grown produce and friendly faces.

  • Outdoor Adventure: For thrill-seekers, Temecula Valley offers sidecar wine tours and paramotor flying adventures with breathtaking views of wine country. From hikes and championship golf courses to horseback trails through the vineyards and hot air balloon flights over the valley, there's an outdoor adventure for every visitor in Southern California Wine Country. For more outdoor activity options, go here.

Halloween After Dark

Temecula’s wineries and businesses are rolling out a calendar of Halloween-themed experiences, including themed costume parties and events that bring a festive, grown-up twist to the holiday.

  • Europa Village hosts its CarnEvil Ball, an adults-only vampire masquerade with sinister cocktails, a haunted circus maze, DJ dancing and a costume contest. Tickets available here.

  • Old Town ghost tours like The Haunt blend local lore, true crime history, and paranormal encounters through the district's historic streets.

  • Baily’s Old Town will host a Halloween party on Oct. 24 with live entertainment and plenty of spooky surprises! More here.

  • The Last Bloom Ball at Briar Rose Winery takes place Oct. 24 and will include a decadent dinner, Briar Rose wines, signature cocktails, a live DJ with dancing, and a costume contest.

  • Get a jump on the spooky season at Thornton Winery’s Pre-Halloween Party on Oct. 30 with DJ Wen spinning the tunes. There’s no cover charge, but guests should reserve their spot and show up ready to dance.

  • Oak Mountain Winery is turning The Cave into a Halloween dance floor for Costume Club Night on Oct. 30! DJ Zeze will be spinning all night long, so come dressed to impress, sip some wine, and dance until the last song plays. Get tickets here before they're gone!

  • Fazeli Cellars is bringing back its 11th Annual Masquerade Ball Halloween Party on Oct. 31. Guests can slip on a masquerade mask, dress to impress in cocktail attire, or go all out with a Halloween costume for a night of dancing, dining, and delightfully spooky fun. Tickets are available here.

  • The Vibe’s Halloween Party on Oct. 31 will showcase Rockstallion, one of Southern California's hottest rock bands. Guests are encouraged to wear costumes and enjoy a night of live music and Halloween fun. More info here.

Plan the Trip

With a charming Old Town district, luxury lodging, and immersive wine country experiences, Temecula Valley is a top choice for travelers seeking relaxation and adventure this fall. Additional details and travel planning resources are available at www.visittemeculavalley.com.

About Temecula Valley

Temecula Valley is Southern California's premier wine country destination, known for its rolling vineyards, boutique wineries, hot air balloon flights and historic Old Town district. Located roughly 60 miles north of San Diego and 90 minutes southeast of Los Angeles, the region offers year-round events, a variety of accommodations, and outdoor experiences for visitors of all ages. For more information, go to www.visittemeculavalley.com