Posted on 10/31/2025 4:52:09 PM PDT by nickcarraway
Downtown Santa Cruz will be closed to vehicle traffic on Halloween as thousands of costumed people are expected to pack Pacific Avenue and surrounding streets.
To keep celebrations safe, Santa Cruz police have designated the downtown core a Safety Enhancement Zone, with triple fines for violations, including public drinking, fighting, and disorderly conduct.
The zone runs all weekend and ends Monday morning.
Police say there will be a heavy law enforcement presence, and they’re treating Halloween as a multi-day event as crowds began celebrating early.
Families can trick-or-treat downtown from 2 p.m. to sundown before nightlife crowds take over. Businesses report brisk sales for last-minute costumes and say they’re stocking extra candy for the rush.
City officials urge visitors to plan, expect large crowds, and be respectful—especially around families with children. So far, the pre-Halloween atmosphere has been festive and family-friendly, authorities said.
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