Calico Ghost Haunt returns for two weekends with Terror Under the Big Top
If spooking is your thing and Halloween brings out the howl in you, Calico Ghost Town may be the fright place to be the last two weekends in October for our annual Ghost Haunt: Terror Under the Big Top. The first weekend of ghost haunting starts Friday, Oct. 24 through Sunday, Oct. 26. The second weekend starts on Halloween night, Friday, Oct. 31 through Sunday, Nov. 2.
Ghost Haunt hours are:
• Friday: 5 to 9 p.m.
• Saturday: 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• Sunday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Ghost Haunting activities include pumpkin carving, trick-or-treating, costume contests for all ages, campsite decorating contest, live music and entertainment shows, gunfighter shows, family-friendly games and activities, haunted attractions* (includes train rides, gold panning, haunted mine tours, Mystery Shack and ghost tours). *Attractions are an additional price. Visit www.calicoattractions.com for prices. Food, snacks and beverages will also be available as well as shopping at town stores. Take a virtual tour of the Calico stores at https://bit.ly/3Y3sM70.
Town Scarers
Beware after dark as nightmares begin to roam throughout town haunted with frightful scarers who will lurk in the shadows waiting to prey on unsuspecting town people.
Scare hours are:
• Friday from 5 to 9 p.m.
• Saturday from 6 to 10 p.m.
Costume Contest Guidelines
Eventgoers can enter our costume contest in one of the following categories to win a prize: funniest, cutest, scariest, and most creative. Dogs can join in on the fun too as Dorsey’s Dog House hosts its dog costume contest on Saturdays.
Campsite Contest
Campers can also participate in our annual Ghost Haunt Campsite Decorating Contest based on the “Terror Under the Big Top” theme.
Admission
General admission for adults (12 & over) is $15, youth (ages 4-11) is $10 and ages 3 and under are free. Campers will also receive free admission up to four people with camping reservations. All ages are welcome.
Calico Ghost Town is located at 36600 Ghost Town Rd. in Yermo.
Visit parks.sbcounty.gov/calico-ghost-haunt for event details. Follow Calico Ghost Town on Facebook for event photos and videos. Follow Regional Parks on Facebook or Instagram for the latest parks news and updates.
Fall Wellness Extravaganza: A celebration for all ages
Join us for the Fall Wellness Extravaganza Saturday, Oct. 25, from 2-6 p.m. at the San Manuel Stadium in San Bernardino! A free community event filled with fun, connection and wellness for all ages.
Hosted by the San Bernardino County Departments of Behavioral Health, Public Health, and Aging and Adult Services, this Wellness Carnival brings together kids, teens, parents, and grandparents for an afternoon of games, entertainment, food, and wellness activities — all designed to strengthen community connections across generations.
Don’t miss out on this family-friendly celebration promoting mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Reserve your spot today: https://www.eventcreate.com/e/fall-wellness-extravaganza
Author talk and book signing with Annette Chavez Macias at San Bernardino County Museum
Step into an afternoon of storytelling, culture and connection on Saturday, Oct. 25, from 2 – 3 p.m., at the San Bernardino County Museum as the museum welcomes acclaimed Hispanic author Annette Chavez Macias, author of “Everything She Never Knew,” as she hosts a special author talk, Q&A and book signing.
Presented as part of the exhibition Expectations: A Better World Through Art, Music, and Respect, this event celebrates the power of stories to bridge heritage, identity and imagination. Macias’s work, deeply rooted in Hispanic culture reflects the themes of family belonging and the universal search for understanding.
In this emotional and heartwarming novel, Macías explores love, loss, and rediscovery through the story of Claudia, a woman whose marriage and closest friendship unravel all at once. When her best friend and neighbor runs off with her husband, Claudia must navigate the aftermath while her strong-willed mother, Gloria, unexpectedly moves in. Together, mother and daughter confront old wounds, rediscover their strength, and learn what it means to rebuild — for themselves and for each other.
Through her writing, Annette brings to life the complexity of family bonds, cultural identity and the everyday courage it takes to begin again.
When asked why she felt strongly about including San Bernardino County Museum in her book tour, Chavez said, “I think positive representation in the arts — whether through music, books, or art in museums — plays a very big role in reaching audiences within minority groups. It gives people the opportunity to see themselves represented, to resonate with, and to connect to their culture and heritage.”
Event highlights include (with Museum admission):
- Author discussion with Annette Chavez Macias
- Audience Q&A session
- Book signing opportunity with the author
- Access to the Expectations: A Better World Through Art, Music, and Respect exhibition—featuring 77 artists and more than 150 works of art
Come celebrate storytelling, connection and heritage as part of the museum’s ongoing Expectations exhibition — a tribute to art, culture and community across generations.
Monster Mayhem takes over County Library branches in October
The San Bernardino County Library branches are about to get a little spooky, a little silly and a whole lot of fun. Monster Mayhem is the theme for October’s reading event, and patrons are invited to join their local library branch for a monstrous good time.
The challenge is simple: check out 15 items — books, audiobooks or digital resources — and claim your frightful favor before it vanishes into the shadows! Every completed challenge also enters participants into a drawing to score a beastly bonus — a monster-sized surprise revealed at the event’s finale.
“Monster Mayhem is a playful way to remind families that reading is not only important — it’s fun,” said County Library Event Coordinator Elizabeth Williams. “Whether you’re a child discovering your first favorite book or an adult who loves a good thriller, everyone can join in the excitement.”
Along with the reading challenge, library branches will host monster-themed activities, games and ghoulish crafts. Costumes are encouraged, but bravery is optional. The Monster Mayhem reading events are free and open to all ages.
Stompity-stomp! Find the monster fun at these County Library branches:
Joshua Tree Branch
6465 Park Blvd., Joshua Tree
Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025
1 to 2 p.m.
Yucca Valley Branch
57271 29 Palms Hwy., Yucca Valley
Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025
1 to 3 p.m.
Adelanto Branch
11497 Bartlett Ave., Adelanto
Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025
2 to 4 p.m.
Barstow Branch
304 E. Buena Vista St., Barstow
Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025
2 to 4 p.m.
Muscoy Baker Family Learning Center
2818 Macy St., Muscoy
Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025
2 to 4 p.m.
Lake Arrowhead Branch
27235 Highway 189, Blue Jay
Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2025
4 to 5:30 p.m.
Chino Hills James S. Thalman Branch
14020 City Center Dr., Chino Hills
Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2025
4 to 7 p.m.
Bloomington Branch
18028 Valley Blvd., Bloomington
Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025
3 to 5 p.m.
Chino Branch
13180 Central Ave., Chino
Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025
4 to 6 p.m.
Lucerne Valley Janice Horst Branch
33103 Old Woman Springs Rd., Lucerne Valley
Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025
4 to 6 p.m.
Rialto Branch
251 West 1st St., Rialto
Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025
4 to 6 p.m.
Mentone Senior Center and Library
1331 Opal Ave., Mentone
Thursday, Oct. 30, 2025
3:30 to 5 p.m.
Don’t miss your chance to join the mayhem — check out, read on and let the monsters loose at your library! For more information about the San Bernardino County Library system, visit library.sbcounty.gov, call 909-387-2220 or follow us on Facebook or Instagram.
The San Bernardino County Library system is a dynamic network of 32 branch libraries that serve a diverse population over a vast geographic area. The County Library strives to provide equal access to information, technology, events and services for all people who call San Bernardino County home.
County Library’s BOO Book Festival brings frights, fun and free Squishmallows for library readers
This Halloween season, the San Bernardino County Library system is treating readers to more than just spooky stories. From Oct. 25-31, library card holders who check out 30 items during the BOO! Book Festival will receive a special prize: a Squishmallow of their choice — just in time for the fall festivities.
The weeklong celebration invites patrons of all ages to visit their local County Library branch, stock up on great reads, and take home one of the most popular plush toys around with five options to choose from. Each library will be fully stocked with hundreds of new books released just for the occasion, ranging from chilling thrillers and autumn-themed picture books to young adult adventures and bestselling fiction.
“This is one of our most anticipated events of the year,” said Program Coordinator Elizabeth Williams. “The BOO! Book Festival not only celebrates the joy of reading, but rewards our loyal library users with something extra special. Whether you love ghost stories, fantasy, or nonfiction, this is the perfect time to check out what’s new on our shelves.”
To earn a Squishmallow, patrons simply need to check out 30 items during the festival week using their valid library card. With thousands of books, DVDs, audiobooks and other materials available, building a stack is easier than ever — and perfect for cozy autumn reading.
Quantities of Squishmallows are limited and available while supplies last, so early participation is encouraged.
The BOO! Book Festival is part of the County Library’s ongoing effort to encourage literacy, promote library use, and create fun, engaging opportunities for the community to connect with books — and each other.
For more information about the San Bernardino County Library system, visit library.sbcounty.gov, call 909-387-2220 or follow us on Facebook or Instagram.
The San Bernardino County Library system is a dynamic network of 32 branch libraries that serve a diverse population over a vast geographic area. The County Library strives to provide equal access to information, technology, programs and services for all people who call San Bernardino County home.
Join us for the Kessler Park Trunk or Treat!
Halloween is just around the corner, and Bloomington Recreation and Parks is thrilled to invite you to our annual Kessler Park Trunk or Treat celebration!
Last year, more than 4,000 attendees joined in the fun, and with your support, we’re aiming to make this year’s event even bigger and better. Help us create a safe, family-friendly evening full of candy, costumes and community spirit!
Come in costume and enjoy inflatable games, food vendors and live DJ entertainment throughout the night.
Date: Saturday, Oct. 25
Time: 5 – 8 p.m.
Location: Kessler Park, 18401 Jurupa Ave., Bloomington
County Library invites the community to Session 5 Programs happening now through Nov. 22
Autumn is the perfect time to cozy up with a good book, learn something new or spend quality time with family — and your local County Library has you covered. Now through Nov. 22, libraries across the region will host Session 5 Programs, a new lineup of fun, free and educational activities designed to engage readers, learners and creators of all ages.
Each session brings a fresh mix of opportunities to explore, discover and connect with the community. Families can enjoy early literacy programs and storytimes; teens can dive into creative challenges and tech workshops; and adults can join book discussions, attend lectures or try something hands-on through maker or art activities.
“Our library programs are about more than reading — they’re about bringing people together,” said County Library Program Coordinator Elizabeth Williams. “Session 5 is a chance for the community to come in, learn something new, and enjoy the welcoming space that the library provides for everyone.”
Highlights of the season include:
- Storytimes and Family Reading Events – Nurture early literacy and spark imagination in young readers.
- STEAM & Maker Programs – Encourage innovation through hands-on experiments and creative projects.
- Arts, Crafts and Cultural Programs – Celebrate creativity and community through guided workshops.
- Special Seasonal Events – Celebrate with Monster Mayhem events with themed activities for all ages.
- Book Clubs and Craft Activities – Participate in lively book discussions and explore your creativity through hands-on craft projects.
Whether you’re looking for a place to read, create or connect, the library offers something for everyone this season.
For more information about the San Bernardino County Library system, visit library.sbcounty.gov, call 909-387-2220 or follow us on Facebook or Instagram.
The San Bernardino County Library system is a dynamic network of 32 branch libraries that serve a diverse population over a vast geographic area. The County Library strives to provide equal access to information, technology, programs and services for all people who call San Bernardino County home.
Spooktacular fun awaits at County Library’s Monster Bash
San Bernardino County Library is inviting the community to join in a fang-tastic evening of frightful fun at the Sam J. Racadio Highland Branch Library & Environmental Learning Center for its Monster Bash on Wednesday, Oct. 29, from 4 to 7 p.m.
This boo-rilliant event is designed to bring the community together for some not-so-scary Halloween cheer. Guests can look forward to games, crafts and more – it’s bound to be a real treat!
Attendees who check out 15 items during the event will receive a chilling reward and be entered for a chance to win the grand prize — now that’s what we call a spooktacular incentive!
“We’re thrilled to brew up some Halloween magic at the library,” said County Library Branch Manager Sarah Bartlett. “It’s a ghoulishly good way to promote literacy, community spirit and just have a monster of a time!”
Don’t forget to dress in your most fang-cy or creep-tastic costume — family-friendly attire is welcome and encouraged! Whether you come as a ghost, ghoul or glittery unicorn, you’re sure to have a howling good time.
The Highland Sam J. Racadio Library and Environmental Learning Center is located at 7863 Central Ave., Highland. So, grab your little monsters and head to the library for a boo-tiful evening of books, boos and bone-chilling fun. You’d be out of your gourd to miss it!
For more information about the San Bernardino County Library system, visit library.sbcounty.gov, call 909-387-2220 or follow us on Facebook or Instagram.
The San Bernardino County Library system is a dynamic network of 32 branch libraries that serve a diverse population over a vast geographic area. The County Library strives to provide equal access to information, technology, programs and services for all people who call San Bernardino County home.
Celebrating Halloween in historic style with marriage services at Calico Ghost Town
San Bernardino County Assessor-Recorder-County Clerk Josie Gonzales is thrilled to announce the return of the beloved Halloween marriage services at Calico Ghost Town, taking place Friday, Oct. 31, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 36600 Ghost Town Rd. in Yermo.
Couples are invited to say “I do” in one of California’s most unique and historic locations. Calico Ghost Town, a preserved silver mining town dating back to 1881, offers a one-of-a-kind setting that blends rustic charm with spooky seasonal spirit.
“I am proud to offer couples a truly unforgettable wedding experience,” Gonzales said. “My team is excited to help people celebrate their love in a setting filled with history, character, and the magic of Halloween.”
This annual event draws couples from across the region who are looking to exchange vows in a festive and memorable way. Participants are encouraged to dress in Halloween or western-themed attire to add a playful and personal touch to their ceremony.
“We are thrilled to be able to set the stage for the second annual destination wedding event at Calico Ghost Town. This year, the town will be able to offer the full Halloween experience to the newly wedded couples as we kick off our second weekend of Ghost Haunt,” said Beahta Davis, director of Regional Parks. “We invite the newlyweds to stick around for this special occasion and enjoy the event from 5 to 9 p.m.”
Appointments are encouraged and must be scheduled by contacting the Assessor-Recorder-County Clerk’s Office at 855-732-2575.
The last day to schedule an appointment is Oct. 28, 2025. Additional details, including required documents and fees, are available at arc.sbcounty.gov/marriage.
General admission to Calico Ghost Town during the Halloween event is as follows:
- Adults (12 and over): $8
- Youth (4-11 yrs.): $5
- Ages 3 and under: Free Admission
- Parking: Free
The Calico House Restaurant will be offering a complimentary drink of choice and a free slice of apple pie to the couples getting married at the town this year, adding a sweet touch to their special day.
For more information about other Calico Ghost Haunt activities, please visit parks.sbcounty.gov/calico-ghost-haunt or call 909-387-2757.
Don’t miss this chance to celebrate your love in a historic setting unlike any other. Space is limited and early booking is strongly encouraged.
About Calico Ghost Town:
Calico Ghost Town is a premier historic attraction located in the Mojave Desert. Established in the 1880s, it offers visitors a glimpse into the Old West with its well-preserved buildings, interactive exhibits, and special events. The town is managed by San Bernardino County Regional Parks and continues to be a beloved destination for history enthusiasts and families alike.
Public Health’s mobile clinic serves the Needles community
The San Bernardino County Department of Public Health’s mobile medical unit is available every Thursday from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Transitional Assistance Department, 1090 E. Broadway St. in Needles.
The mobile medical unit provides convenient access to preventive and primary care services close to home.
Appointments are encouraged to reduce wait times. To schedule an appointment, call 800-722-4777 and press 5.
For more information about the mobile medical unit and other Public Health services, visit dph.sbcounty.gov.
Spreen Subaru of San Bernardino partners with County Animal Care and ARFF this October
Every October, Spreen Subaru of San Bernardino partners with San Bernardino County Animal Care and the Animals aRe First Fund (ARFF) for the Subaru Loves Pets adoption event to help pets find their forever homes. This year, adoptions are free for the entire month of October. Join us and make a difference — adopt your furry best friend today at the Devore or Big Bear Animal Shelters.
What’s included with qualifying adoptions:
- Spay or neuter
- Microchip
- Age-appropriate vaccinations
To help ease your transition to pet parenthood, MetLife Pet Insurance offers 30 days of complimentary pet insurance for newly adopted pets. Learn how you can support the Devore and Big Bear Animal Shelters, or view details about MetLife’s adoption benefit at arffund.org. Find your perfect match and give a pet a second chance at animalcare.sbcounty.gov.
“Paws” to read, earn a treat
Big news for young readers and animal lovers! San Bernardino County Animal Care has teamed up with Raising Cane’s for a paws-itively fun twist on our “Telling Tails” Reading Program! From now through October 31, kids ages 6–12 who complete six reading sessions with our shelter pets will earn a free kids combo, courtesy of Raising Cane’s!
Reading to shelter pets helps them feel loved and socialized — and gives kids a chance to build confidence, compassion and reading skills. It’s a tail-wagging win-win! Start your reading adventure today, your purr-fect reading buddy is waiting! Visit the Telling Tails Reading Program webpage to learn more.
County Library and Ono Hawaiian BBQ team up to reward readers with free food
Aloha, bookworms! This fall, reading comes with a delicious reward as the San Bernardino County Library system partners with Ono Hawaiian BBQ to launch a special literacy program for children and teens. From now until November 30, library cardholders 17 years of age and under can participate in the Ono Hawaiian BBQ Autumn Reading Program, earning free meal certificates simply by checking out and reading five books from any one of the 32 County Library branches.
Participants will receive one free Ono Hawaiian BBQ certificate, redeemable at participating locations, for every five books read and logged in Beanstack, the County Library’s digital reading app, along with a checkout receipt showing five books borrowed from the library. Each reader can earn up to three keiki certificates during the program, which ends on November 30.
“This partnership is a fun and flavorful way to encourage independent reading and library use among young people,” said County Library Program Coordinator Elizabeth Williams. “We’re thrilled to partner with Ono Hawaiian BBQ again to support literacy and learning throughout our communities.”
For more information about the San Bernardino County Library system, visit library.sbcounty.gov, call 909-387-2220 or follow us on Facebook or Instagram.
The San Bernardino County Library system is a dynamic network of 32 branch libraries that serve a diverse population over a vast geographic area. The County Library strives to provide equal access to information, technology, programs and services for all people who call San Bernardino County home.
Building stories, one brick at a time: County Library celebrates National Family Literacy Month with Lego® contest
In celebration of National Family Literacy Month, the San Bernardino County Library invites families to bring their favorite stories to life — brick by brick —at the LEGO® Building Contest, taking place at three County Library branches on Saturday, Nov. 15 from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.:
Apple Valley Newton T. Bass Branch
14901 Dale Evans Parkway, Apple Valley
760-995-8750
Chino Hills James S. Thalman Branch
14020 City Center Dr., Chino Hills
909-590-5380
Fontana Lewis Library and Technology Center
8437 Sierra Ave., Fontana
909-574-4500
The event encourages young builders to combine creativity with literacy by recreating a scene, character or setting from a favorite book — built entirely at home using LEGO® bricks, without adult help or pre-designed kits.
To enter, builders must check out 10 library items and present the receipt to receive an official entry form. Entries are limited to 75 per branch, with one entry allowed per family. Creations must not exceed 11 inches by 17 inches in base size and 2 feet in height. Entries will be accepted on-site for display at each participating branch between November 12 and 14, prior to the event.
All entries will be judged in four story-inspired categories: Fairytale, Mystery, Science Fiction, and Realistic Fiction. Winners will be announced at the end of each event.
Guests can also enjoy family-friendly fun throughout the day, including craft stations and a drop-in build area hosted by Play-Well TEKnologies, where visitors can experiment and build freely.
“This contest is a perfect way to celebrate Family Literacy Month,” said County Library Events Coordinator Jenni McCormick. “It inspires children to not only read stories but to imagine and create them in new ways — connecting books, creativity, and family time.”
The LEGO® Building Contest is free to attend and open to the public. Families are encouraged to register early, as space is limited.
For more information about the San Bernardino County Library system, visit library.sbcounty.gov, call 909-387-2220 or follow us on Facebook or Instagram.
The San Bernardino County Library system is a dynamic network of 32 branch libraries that serve a diverse population over a vast geographic area. The County Library strives to provide equal access to information, technology, programs and services for all people who call San Bernardino County home.
Additional County Update News – October 23, 2025
- Board actions – Oct. 21
- Protect yourself and the community from respiratory virus infections
- Behavioral Health launches WE2 Program – Wellness, Weight Loss, Emotion Control, and Exercise Program
- Youth Enrichment and Exploration Program: Helping foster youth grow, explore and thrive
- Celebrating Code Enforcement Officer Appreciation Week
- County comes together for the Great ShakeOut and Ready SB County App launch
- Ani-Makerspace at Fontana Library inspires creativity through partnership with Garner Holt Education Through Imagination
- San Bernardino County destinations: Silverwood Lake trails
- Call for submissions: Share your favorite San Bernardino County destinations
- San Bernardino County history: San Antonio Regional Hospital
- Pet of the Week: Katrina