36th Annual Pumpkin Race at Manhattan Beach Pier

Every October, Manhattan Beach hands its main street over to gourds on wheels. The 36th Annual Pumpkin Race is on Sunday, October 18, 2026, and it's free. If you're making a list of family events Los Angeles has to offer before Halloween, this one belongs near the top.

When: Sunday, October 18, 2026, 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM Where: Manhattan Beach Pier area, Manhattan Beach Boulevard Price: Free Organizer: Manhattan Beach Parks & Rec

What to expect

The pier area becomes "Pumpkin Race Land" for the afternoon. The star attraction is the race itself: kids send hand-built pumpkin racers down Manhattan Beach Boulevard while a crowd lines the course and cheers. Races begin at 2:00 PM sharp, so plan to be in place a bit early if you want a spot near the rail.

Around the race, the day is built for all ages. There are activities along the pier, a chance to make your own pumpkin racer, and a general Halloween festival feel. Costumes are encouraged, so bring yours. The organizers promise that "cheaters never prosper," which is the closest thing to a rulebook you'll find in the listing.

For parents hunting for things to do with kids LA can offer in a single afternoon, the appeal is that nobody needs a ticket or a reservation. Show up, build or watch, and let the kids get loud.

Tips for going

• Bring your racer ready to go if you plan to compete. The listing asks you to get your pumpkin racers to the event, so check with Manhattan Beach Parks & Rec for any sizing or wheel rules before race day.
• Arrive early. Pier-area parking and the walk streets fill up fast on a sunny Sunday, and a free festival draws a crowd.
• Dress for the beach. Even in October the strand can run breezy, so layer up the costumes.
• Expect a long day on your feet. The festival is described as day-long, with the main window running from noon to mid-afternoon.

Getting there

The race runs along Manhattan Beach Boulevard at the foot of the Manhattan Beach Pier, in the South Bay. Rideshare or a bike is the easiest approach, since street parking close to the sand is scarce on event days. Coming from the east, Manhattan Beach Boulevard leads straight to the pier.

If you're stacking up your weekend, this fits alongside other things to do in Los Angeles this month. Browse more in our family events category for Halloween picks across the region.

Before you go

Times for events like this can shift, so confirm the schedule with the Local Anchor listing or Manhattan Beach Parks & Rec before you head out. The listing gives a noon festival start, a 2:00 PM race time and a 3:00 PM close on the event page.