10-26-2024
Halloween is such a magical time. There’s nothing quite like seeing your little ones light up. This year, my three-year-old daughter became the fiercest little Wonder Woman. Her big brother, age five, transformed into Optimus Prime! Together, we had an unforgettable trick-or-treating adventure at The Forum in Carlsbad. Here’s a glimpse into our fun-filled day and some tips if you’re planning to visit!
Arriving in Costume
As we pulled up to The Forum, the kids were already in full character. My daughter loves to show her Wonder Woman outfit. My son proudly displayed his Optimus Prime costume and couldn’t wait to start their candy quest. The Forum goes all out for Halloween, with decorations that are festive but still family-friendly, perfect for little ones.

Trick-or-Treating Adventure
Each store had a different vibe. It was adorable to see my little Wonder Woman approach each door with her “Trick-or-Treat!” and a big grin. Her brother, of course, did his part as the brave Optimus, helping her when she got shy. The store employees really got into the spirit, handing out treats with big smiles. It’s so refreshing to visit a place that makes young families feel welcome, safe, and excited.
Highlights of the Event
The Haunted Photo Booth: Right near the center of The Forum, there was a spooky yet friendly Halloween-themed photo booth. You and your family can get your picture taken with fun props, which can absolutely create unforgettable memories!
Live Music and Entertainment: The energy was so high with live music playing spooky tunes and entertainers dressed in costumes. My daughter even started dancing, which led to a mini superhero dance-off between her and her brother!
Friendly Faces Everywhere: The Forum staff and other parents were all smiles. They made it feel like a big Halloween community gathering. Kids of all ages were dressed up, and everyone was in such a friendly, festive mood. It’s such a great environment for young families – we felt like we would have fun and enjoy every moment.
Tips for a Spooktacular Time at The Forum
If you’re planning to take your little ones to The Forum next Halloween, here are a few tips to make the most of your visit:
• Arrive Early: The Forum can get busy, especially around peak trick-or-treating hours. Arriving early means your little superheroes get a head start!
• Bring a Camera: There are so many cute photo ops around the center. You won’t want to miss capturing those precious moments.
• Dress for Comfort: While costumes are a must, make sure your kids are comfortable. The walk around The Forum can be a little long for tiny feet, so cozy shoes are a lifesaver!
• Bring a Bag for Candy: They would actually give a cute small bag for each kid. You can also bring your own trick or treat bag, which my kids did. And here’s a pro tip. Use a backpack to carry extras like water, wipes, or even a quick snack for the kids.
Wrapping Up a Magical Day
We wrapped up our Halloween adventure with a nice dinner at one of the restaurants in The Forum. Seeing the smiles on my kids’ faces as they sifted through their treats made my heart melt. It was the perfect end to a magical day.
If you’re in the Carlsbad area next Halloween, The Forum is definitely worth the visit. It’s the perfect mix of community, family-friendly fun, and festive excitement that makes Halloween so special. We’ll definitely be back next year!