Spirits & Spooks: October Adventures in Temecula Valley Wine Country
As the leaves begin their transformation and the autumn breeze blows through the vines, there’s no better time to explore Temecula Valley Wine Country! October brings a perfect blend of warm days and cooler nights, festive celebrations, and that unmistakable fall feeling that makes every sip feel special. From family-friendly harvest festivals and corn mazes to sophisticated masquerade balls and winery celebrations, from ghost stories to hot air balloon rides over golden vineyards, October in Temecula Valley Wine Country offers something for every visitor.
Pumpkins, Wine, and Everything Divine
Start your October adventure at Peltzer Pumpkin Farm. The Peltzer Pumpkin Farm has been a family tradition for almost thirty years now! Whether you’re searching for the perfect jack-o’-lantern, navigating the sprawling corn maze, watching a pig race, mining for gold, or simply looking to get those Instagram-worthy family photos. Peltzer is the perfect place to do it all.
Festive Fall Parties
October brings an incredible lineup of opportunities to really get into the fall spirit throughout the month! Be sure to check our events page for an up to date list of everything happening in October. Here are some of our bucket list events:
- October 3rd: Oktoberfest Bites and Brews at Cougar Vineyard & Winery
- October 5th: Wine Glass Art Classes for creative wine lovers at Akash Winery
- October 11th: Once Upon a Nightmare: The Villains Will Rise at Briar Rose Winery
- October 24th: Europa Village’s CarnEvil: Le Crique du Mal Costume Party
- October 24th: Lorimar Winery’s annual Halloween Party
- October 25th: Fazeli Cellars Masquerade Ball where mystery meets magnificent wine
A Ghost Story Worth Toasting
Speaking of spooky Temecula experiences, did you know that Bella Vista Winery might be extra spirited? As one of Temecula Valley’s oldest properties and home to our very first commercial vineyard (planted in 1968 by Vincenzo Cilurzo and his wife Audrey), Bella Vista carries decades of wine-making history.
But here’s where it gets deliciously spooky, some of the staff believe Mr. Cilurzo never really left his beloved winery. Staff report flickering lights (fitting, since he was a lighting expert in Hollywood), mysterious nighttime sounds, and even gates that open on their own. As one staff member shared, “I was carrying a case of wine up the stairs…the gate opened! I was three steps away from the top. This was in the middle of the day!”
Whether you’re a believer in the supernatural or simply love a good story, Bella Vista offers an experience that’s both historical and wonderfully mysterious. Be sure to stop by Bella Vista’s Speakeasy, The Cilurzo, while you’re there. It’s a cozy little corner with wine based cocktails and tasty bites to order. Reservations are highly recommended.
Unleash Your Creative Spirit: October Art Experiences
Grab a glass of Temecula wine and pick up a paint brush! From craft classes at Peltzer to Modern Calligraphy & Pumpkin Lettering Class at Akash Winery, and Sip & Paint nights at both Ponte Winery and Europa Village; this month offers a wide variety of opportunities to express your creativity. Many wineries also offer wine glass art classes throughout October, where you can paint and personalize your own wine glasses, the perfect souvenir from your autumn wine country adventure.
Take Flight for those Vineyard Views
For a bird’s-eye view of the fall foliage, consider a morning hot air balloon ride with A Grape Escape Balloon Adventure or Cielo Balloons. There’s nothing quite like floating above the golden vineyards while sipping champagne and watching the sunrise paint the valley in autumn hues.
More Tips for Planning Your Perfect October Visit:
- Book an overnight stay with one of our lodging partners for the complete wine country experience
- Book transportation with our trusted tour partners for safe, stylish travel between venues
- Get the most out of your visit with our Temecula SIP Passport, your passport to midweek winery discounts
So grab your friends, pack your sense of adventure, and come discover why October might just be the most enchanting month to explore Southern California Wine Country. Cheers!
