Nightfall, the after-dark Halloween event at Filoli's historic estate in Woodside, wraps up this weekend. Its last night is Sunday, Nov. 1.
What it is
Filoli describes Nightfall as one story told across the whole estate. It starts with a harvest party in the Meadow, with games, live music, food and drink and thousands of pumpkins. From there you follow clues through the historic house, which Filoli has dressed as a mansion "reclaimed by the forest." Next comes a woodland trail lit with glowing trees, scarecrows, giant slugs and 1,000 jack-o'-lanterns, ending at a witches' village under the redwoods.
New this year is the Haunted Railway: eight miniature trains looping through 1,000 feet of track. Filoli says they're for watching, not riding.
Hours and tickets
- Where: 86 Cañada Road, Woodside.
- Hours: 5:30 to 10 p.m., with last entry at 8:30 p.m. The Witches' Village and trains close at 9:30 p.m., and food and drink service ends at 9:30 p.m.
- General admission: $45-$55, free for kids 3 and under, according to Palo Alto Online. Filoli members get 20% off admission.
- Parking: Free, but staff may send you to one of three lots, some up to a 15-minute walk on gravel.
If it's sold out
Palo Alto Online reported that some popular dates and times had sold out for general admission. Filoli's site says its Champagne Lounge and fire pits are another way in, since both include Nightfall admission:
- Champagne Lounge: A 60-minute experience in the house's ballroom with three champagne pours. Adults $125, children $60, under 5 free.
- Private fire pit: A 90-minute reserved spot in the Meadow for up to eight guests, with beverages, starting at $950.
Tips
- Filoli says to allow at least 2 to 2.5 hours to see everything and to arrive early in your entry window.
- Wear comfortable shoes. The route includes woodland trails, gravel paths and uneven, dimly lit ground.
- Bring a layer. Filoli warns that evenings in the redwoods can get chilly.