The candy bags are ready; the costumes are queued up. If you’re looking for the best places around the Bay Area to take your ghosts and goblins this Halloween, you’re in luck. Here are four neighborhoods where the Halloween spirit is alive—and where families can expect safe, lively, and memorable trick-or-treat nights.

1. Willow Glen, San Jose

 

 

Willow Glen is nearly legendary for its Halloween energy.

• The downtown corridor along Lincoln Avenue (between Minnesota Ave & Willow St) hosts the annual “Trick-or-Treat the Avenue” event where local businesses hand out candy and the whole street buzzes with families.

• Residents report very high foot-traffic in some blocks, making it a go-to destination for trick-or-treating in the South Bay.

• One of the local guides lists Willow Glen as the top neighborhood in the region for Halloween participation.

👻 Take-away for families: If you want a high-energy, big-event kind of Halloween night—with lots of houses, big decorations and community participation—Willow Glen is a must.

2. Los Gatos – Almond Grove & Nearby Streets

 

Los Gatos brings its own charm—residential streets that go big for Halloween.

• The “Almond Grove” area (notably around Tait Avenue and Johnson Avenue) is often closed-to-traffic on Halloween night so children can roam freely while homeowners and neighbors decorate heavily. 

• These streets draw large crowds because of the coordination among homeowners and strong neighborhood participation.

👻 Take-away for families: If you’re up for walking a bit more, and want to experience a large, festive trick-or-treat zone with impressive decorations and many candy stops—Los Gatos is very strong.

3. Almaden Valley (San Jose) – Especially Crystal Springs Drive in the Country Club Neighborhood

Almaden Valley offers a slightly calmer but equally spirited Halloween experience, filled with neighborhood pride and creativity.

• The Country Club neighborhood, particularly along Crystal Springs Drive, is a favorite local spot for trick-or-treating. Wide sidewalks, friendly neighbors, and beautifully decorated homes make it a family favorite.

• In true Almaden fashion, Halloween-goers often decorate their golf carts and parade them around the neighborhood — a fun, festive twist that turns the evening into a moving Halloween spectacle! 🎃🛺

• Homes here range from subtly spooky to fully themed, with plenty of candy and smiles along the way.

👻 Takeaway: If you’re looking for a family-friendly Halloween with community charm and creativity, Almaden Valley delivers every time.

4. Cambrian Park (South San Jose) – Top Streets to Explore

 

 

 

Often overlooked, but definitely worth adding to your list—Cambrian Park delivers strong Halloween participation with a community-friendly vibe.

• Neighborhood guides consistently rank Cambrian among the best for trick or treating in San Jose. 

• According to local discussion boards, streets around Houge Park and corridors near Camden Avenue / Union Avenue draw steady trick-or-treat traffic. 

🔍 Top Streets and Areas in Cambrian to Check Out

• Camden Avenue (near Union Avenue): Many side-streets branch off here with homes participating heavily.

• Union Avenue side-streets: Close to the commercial zone, but these side streets give the residential feel plus access.

• Houge Park surrounding streets: A park-adjacent loop where residents note good candy haul and decorations.

• Lexington Street / Cahill Park vicinity: Another area local parents mention for good trick-or-treating activity.

• Side streets west of Cambrian Plaza (near Cambrian Park Plaza at Camden & Union): Local commentary suggests these streets are consistent.

👻 Take-away for families: Ideal for those wanting a local, community-oriented Halloween with strong participation but fewer massive crowds than the busiest districts. Great for younger kids, strollers, and a relaxed pace.

🎯 Safety & Planning Tips

• The city of San Jose reminds everyone to avoid driving during peak trick-or-treating hours (often 5–9 p.m.) and to watch for pedestrians carefully. 

• Arrive early: Park a block away and walk in so you can start promptly and avoid heavy traffic jams.

• Map out your route: Choose 2-3 streets in a concentrated zone to maximize stops and minimize walking fatigue.

• Stay visible: Use a flashlight or glow stick; costumes should allow clear vision and be short enough to avoid tripping.

• If a house has no porch light or signs indicating no candy, skip it—respect the homeowners’ participation choice.

• Have fun! This is about memories. Encourage costumes, capture a few photos in front of decorated houses, and enjoy the neighborhood spirit.

🏁 Final Word

Whether you’re planning a full Halloween night adventure or just hitting a few great blocks for candy and photo ops, the South Bay has some standout neighborhoods that make the experience extra fun. From the bustling excitement of Willow Glen to the high-energy streets of Los Gatos, the friendly suburban charm of Almaden Valley, and the welcoming community vibe of Cambrian Park—you’ve got excellent options.

Pick your route, charge up your flashlight, bring your big candy bag, and enjoy a safe and spooktacular Halloween in the Bay Area!

👻 Thinking about where to live next? If you’re drawn to neighborhoods with fun community traditions, strong schools, and active family life, let’s talk. Contact The Moles Group—we can show you homes in these great trick-or-treat zones and beyond!