Carlsbad Comes Alive in the Fall

By R. Gabriel Villalobos

Autumn is here, and with the cool breeze of the season, Carlsbad comes to life with a wide variety of events spanning the spectrum between inspirational and uplifting to frightening and traumatic. Whether it’s at the library, a family farm, or some dark, spooky venue, making memories seems to be at the top of everyone’s list.

A Short List of Some Great Things Happening

On Saturday, October 11, the Lowrider, Truck, Bike, and Semi Show will take place at San Jose Plaza in Ray Ayana Park. Car culture is somewhere near the very core of Americana, and proud motorists will have their vehicles on full display.

Take in the atmosphere and be mesmerized by the slick paint jobs at this crowd-pleasing event. Ernest Trevino, the organizer, talked about how exciting the cars around him were when he was growing up.

“My uncle and my dad cruised around in their ‘64 Impala.” It’s not surprising, then, that he ended up organizing a car show last year; however, this will only be the second time this event has been held in town. It’s free to the public, and he’s excited for visitors to experience the enthusiasm that these drivers have for their wheels. Trevino pointed out that “Many of these cars have been built over a lifetime.”

At the library on Tuesday, October 14, from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., there will be a make-your-own Spooky Book Vase activity. All supplies will be provided; however, if attendees desire specific colors, they will need to bring those with them. Books are random, and flowers are all black. Registration is required for this program as supplies are limited. To register, call or visit the info desk at the library.

Milton’s Brewing hosts a book club that meets on Wednesday, October 15, from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. This month’s book is “Strange Practice” by Vivian Shaw, a novel about a doctor for the undead who finds herself in a struggle with a cult of murderous monks. Book clubs are a great way to explore stories with others and discuss the themes and relevance of novels.

Beginning on October 17, Reaper’s Hallow Haunted House will be open from 7 p.m. to midnight, featuring live actors and 10,000 square feet of spooky fun. Located at Juar Axe at 101 N. Canal St., kids and adults will enjoy being horrified by the ghouls and goblins summoned for the occasion.

The Balzano Family Vineyard and Pumpkin Patch offers a variety of activities for the whole family. A pumpkin patch, hayrides, a fishing pond, a bamboo maze, a petting zoo, and more are all available to visitors who arrive ready for a good time. Food and drinks will also be available. Just 15 minutes out of town Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays through October. It’s located at 5239 Seven Rivers Highway.

Theatrical Treats Are on Tap Too, Live and On the Big Screen

There is a stage production of George A. Romero’s cult classic “Night of the Living Dead” at the Carlsbad Community Theater, opening on Friday, October 24. People can catch an evening or matinee performance; the schedule is available on their website and Facebook page. Pam Cox, the director, assures that “It’s going to be a really fun show! Lots of the elements of the original black and white movie, as well as some great and funny new stuff.”

The Cavern Theatre is also treating the townsfolk with a schedule of movie screenings that really hit the spot this season. Titles include John Carpenter’s “The Thing,” “Phantom of the Opera” starring Lon Chaney, “Beetlejuice,” and a special Halloween late-night screening of “The Exorcist.” William Friedkin’s haunting depiction of a young girl’s possession hits the screen on October 31 at 11 p.m. The full schedule can be found on the theater’s website, carlsbadcaverntheatre.com.