The air is getting a little crispier, the sun is setting earlier, and your kids are starting to ask, “What can we do this weekend?” That feeling is magic! Here in Southern California, we might not get those dramatic, East Coast seasons, but we absolutely get to enjoy that wonderful feeling of change, what I like to call “Fall, California Style!”

We love that the weather starts to shift just enough to make a full day outside comfortable and cozy. Every year, we look forward to the different fall activities our area has to offer, and we try to turn it into a full family event! One of our favorite fall memories is definitely seeing the pig races at one of the local farms—the farm had given each pig the most hilarious names, and the whole family was cracking up! We also always love going apple picking and then coming home to make a delicious dessert from the apples we picked. It’s those simple, authentic moments of enjoying the cooler weather as a family and making memories together that make fall so special.

This guide is for you, mama! I want to help you discover easy, fun, memory-making activities right here in the Temecula and Murrieta areas so that you don’t miss any of the seasonal fun.

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Visit a Pumpkin Patch: Corn Mazes, Pig Races, and All the Fun!

Pumpkin patches are the absolute heart of the season and, honestly, they offer the best kind of built-in photo opportunities! What I love most is the nostalgic appeal—it’s where those classic fall family traditions are made. From finding that perfect gourd to letting the kids loose on the giant jumpers, it’s a sensory experience for all ages.

Peltzer Pumpkin Farm

• Description: Located right off a winery, this spot has a wonderful, full-festival feel. Attractions include a Petting Farm, Pony Rides, and the famous Pig Races on weekends and select evenings.
• Address: 39925 Calle Contento, Temecula, CA 92591
• Website: https://www.peltzerfarms.com/

Seasonal Adventures Pumpkin Patch (Murrieta)

• Description: A massive patch dedicated to carnival-style fun! They offer mechanical rides, huge blow-up slides, obstacle courses, bounce houses, a petting zoo, and a train. Perfect for little ones who need to burn off energy.
• Address: 41199 Murrieta Hot Springs Rd, Murrieta, CA. 92562
• Website: https://www.seasonaladventures.com/murrietapumpkins

Pumpkinland Temecula

• Description: This local, family-owned patch is conveniently located at the Promenade Mall. Admission and paved parking are FREE, and their main feature is an array of giant inflatables, bounce houses, and a petting zoo. Great for convenience and easy parking.
• Location: Promenade Mall (JC Penney Parking Lot), Temecula, CA
• Website: https://pumpkinlandtemecula.com/

Wickerd Farm (Menifee)

• Description: Just north in Menifee, this is a beautiful, family-owned farm with a much more rustic feel. Here you can Pick Your Own Pumpkins and take a scenic nature hike. Perfect for a traditional, low-key experience.
• Address: 26852 Scott Rd, Menifee, CA 92584
• Website: https://www.wickerdgarden.com/

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Explore Fall Foliage Trails & Scenic Day Trips

If you’re craving that true, East Coast-style fall feel with vibrant leaves and that crisp mountain air, a day trip to the mountains is a must-do annual tradition! This is the best way to get those gorgeous fall photos and make incredible memories.

• Peak Foliage Tip: The best window for peak fall colors in these regions is generally Mid-October to early November.

Oak Glen, CA

• Description: Apple Picking Central! This historic apple-growing region has a full loop road dedicated to farms and orchards, offering U-Pick apples, cider pressing, hayrides, and petting zoos.
• Address: Start at the main village area 38480 Oak Glen Rd, Oak Glen, CA 92399
• Website: https://www.oakglen.net/

Julian, CA

• Description: Pie and Quaint Charm! Julian is famous for its historic town and, most importantly, the Julian Apple Pie! It offers a quaint, walkable atmosphere with shops and nearby orchards.
• Address: Visit the main town area 2112 Main St, Julian, CA 92036
• Website (Julian Farm and Orchard Example): https://www.julianfarmandorchard.com/

Big Bear Lake, CA

• Description: Scenic Adventure! Big Bear offers a gorgeous alpine environment. Fall activities include scenic boat tours, kayaking, and family-friendly hikes to see the aspens and cottonwoods turning bright yellow.
• Address: Visit the main area for lake activities 40824 Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
• Website: https://www.bigbear.com/

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Attend a Fall Festival or Fair

Fall festivals are the ultimate way to celebrate local culture, community, and seasonal traditions. Here in the Temecula Valley, the vibe ranges from sophisticated wine harvest parties to huge, family-friendly events with games and music.

Big Horse Corn Maze & Harvest Festival

• Description: Home to what’s touted as Southern California’s largest corn maze, this is a full-scale harvest festival with a huge maze, hayrides, and tons of activities.
• Address: 33320 Temecula Pkwy, Temecula, CA 92592
• Website: https://bighorsecornmaze.com/

Wine Country Grape Stomps

• Description: A fun, unique, adult-friendly fall activity that celebrates the region’s main industry. Several local wineries (including Ponte, Callaway, and Europa Village) host fun, interactive grape stomps throughout September and October.
• Address: Varies by winery, check individual winery websites
• Website (Visit Temecula Valley Events): https://www.visittemeculavalley.com/fall/

Idyllwild Great Pumpkin Carnival

• Description: (A Great Day Trip Idea!) Since the mountain town of Idyllwild doesn’t do house-to-house trick-or-treating, they host a huge town carnival on Halloween, complete with a costume parade, games, and local trick-or-treating.
• Location: Idyllwild Town Center, 54245 N Circle Dr, Idyllwild, CA 92549
• Website (Visit Idyllwild Events): https://www.idyllwildcommunitycenter.org/services-3

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Spooky Halloween Fun in Temecula

Ready for a little spooky fun? Temecula Valley transforms in October, offering everything from thrilling haunted tours to family-friendly costume events.

Vail Headquarters Seasonal Events

• Description: This historic landmark is a great place to find family-friendly activities throughout October. They host seasonal events like Spooky Markets and Boo Bashes, perfect for kids to wear their costumes and enjoy vendors and games in a charming, rustic setting.
• Address: 32115 Temecula Pkwy, Temecula, CA 92592
• Website: https://www.vailhq.com/

Old Town Temecula Ghost Tours

• Description: Old Town Temecula is a fun, walkable hub that takes on a cozy atmosphere in the fall. For a fun seasonal twist, try one of the Ghost Tours offered in the area!
• Meeting Point Example: Varies by tour operator, but often meets around 28545 Old Town Front St, Temecula, CA 92590
• Website (Old Town Events): https://www.visittemeculavalley.com/events/old-town-events/

Headless Horseman Wagon Ride

• Description: Bring your family and hold onto your heads! The Temecula Carriage Company offers a Haunted Horse Drawn Wagon ride every weekend in October. A fun, slightly scary event for the whole family.
• Address: 40001 Berenda Road Temecula, CA
• Website (Spooky Experiences): https://www.visittemeculavalley.com/fall/spooky-experiences/

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Planning for a Meltdown-Free Day

This is my secret weapon for a stress-free experience, whether it’s a photo session or a family outing: plan and set expectations ahead of time!

Before we head out, I like to tell everyone what we will be doing and set clear expectations. This helps prevent meltdowns or disappointment because the kids can also pick and choose what they want to spend their tickets on.

• Set the Budget: Share the budget for food, rides, or activities ahead of time. This helps prevent meltdowns or disappointment because the kids can also pick and choose what they want to spend their tickets on.
• Dress Smart: Forget the cute sandals! Pumpkin patches are often muddy or dusty farm fields. Wear comfortable, sturdy, closed-toe shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty.
• Bring the Essentials: Always pack your own water bottles and snacks to stay hydrated and avoid meltdowns from hungry or thirsty kids. For festivals, pack good quality ear defenders for children to protect their hearing.

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The beauty of fall isn’t just in the colors or the treats—it’s in the way the season slows us down and encourages us to connect with our families. These simple, authentic moments—the laughter, the sticky hands from shaved ice, the thrill of finding the perfect pumpkin—these are the memories that matter most.

If you’re looking to capture the warmth and richness of your family’s connection this season, let’s talk! I specialize in making sessions easy and comfortable for mothers and children, delivering beautiful, timeless images that reflect your authentic love story.

Ready to freeze this wonderful season in time? Let’s connect and plan your family session today!