Filoli proudly brings back its popular after-dark event this autumn. Nightfall 2025 will run from October 3 through November 10, offering visitors an experience that blends art, light, and seasonal storytelling across the estate’s gardens and historic mansion. Now entering its second year, Nightfall expands on Filoli’s long-running fall programming, offering guests a chance to explore the property in a more whimsical setting. Timed evening entries allow for smaller crowds and an experience designed around discovery rather than fright.
What You’ll See & Do
The historic house is draped in candlelight, filled with gothic vignettes and subtle nods to Filoli’s century-old past. Outside, the gardens come alive under the moonlight, where fog drifts over the pools and sculptures take on a mysterious presence. Here’s a peek at what’s in store this year:
Gothic lady in black
Haunted House Walkthrough
Step inside the historic mansion, where a candlelit route winds through the Ballroom, Reception Room, and period rooms. Along the way, flickering lights would reveal a giant Ouija board, a skeletal host, and an antique doll collection. You may bump into “ghosts” (staff in costume) at doorways and along corridors to keep the narrative moving.
The tour also features eerie culinary art displays, including jelly eyeball desserts that seem to stare back, a bloody cake topped with a sculpted flesh-like heart, and a ghostly white cake shimmering under candlelight.
The dining room
(Left) Bloody cake with a fresh heart on top, (Right) Ghostly cake with empty faces
Green jelly eye ball desserts
Moonlit Garden Journey
As you step outside into the moonlit garden, the forest trail leads to towering troll sculptures by artist Thomas Dambo, built from reclaimed wood and illuminated to cast giant shadows through the oaks. Nearby, giant, glowing garden slugs (bioluminescent art pieces) shine neon green among the plants, adding a surreal pop of color to the darkened landscape.
Into the meadow, visitors can walk beneath arches of carved pumpkins that glow overhead, creating a tunnel of orange light. The field stretches into a glowing patchwork of carved jack-o’-lanterns, scarecrow figures, each flickering with its own warm light.
Giant wooden troll statue (there are many more)
Pumpkin arches, with Viv Kelvin
Pumpkins scattered on the meadow
Jack’s Bar, Fire Pits, & Music
Warm up with fall-inspired drinks and snacks at Jack’s Bar. Sip cider, hot cocoa, or a themed cocktail while you soak up the crisp evening air. You may also gather around cozy fire pits where soft tunes fill the night. It’s a moment to relax, laugh, and maybe roast a marshmallow or two.
Costumes Encouraged
Guests are welcome to show off their Halloween spirit with fun, tasteful costumes. Just leave full-face masks and big props at home.
Giant luminescent slugs
Tickets, Timing, and Attire
Ticket prices for Nightfall are as follows:
- $45.00 – Adults
- $35.00 – Ages 5 to 17
- FREE – Below 5 years old
Filoli Members get 20% off on any purchase of tickets (for themselves, family, or friends) unlimited. VIP upgrades are available for those looking to make the night extra special. Timed entry slots help keep the experience relaxed, and the event typically runs through early November. This event sells out quickly, so its best to book in advance.
Because evenings in Woodside can get chilly, it’s smart to bring layers and comfortable shoes; you’ll be walking through meadow grass, bark, and gravel trails. Dress warmly and bring a small flashlight for extra visibility. Take your time exploring the trails and house.
Keep your phone charged for photos, but remember to look up and enjoy the moment. The magic’s best seen with your own eyes.
Sources:
- Filoli Official Website – Nightfall Event Page
- Filoli Halloween & Events Calendar
- Blooloop – Filoli Halloween Nightfall Event Coverage
- Coastside Buzz – Nightfall Event Details
- Marin Mommies – Event Listing for Nightfall
For More News
For more of what’s happening in and around San Carlos, please visit San Carlos Life Blog
About San Carlos
About San Carlos Life
Mark Martinho and Vivienne Kelvin are the hosts of San Carlos Life and have been residents of San Carlos for years. While running San Carlos Life together with an awesome team, Mark and Viv are also in the business of real estate. They are the co-owners of Vabrato, a real estate brokerage with over 30 years of combined experience, serving the City of Good Living and the whole of San Mateo and Santa Clara counties.
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Mark is a Real Estate Broker and General Contractor, with degrees in Mechanical Engineering and Law. He is also a long-time resident of Redwood City and San Carlos. Viv is also a Broker, respected Interior Designer, seasoned Marketing Expert, and trusted San Carlos business community leader, as well as a long-time San Carlos resident.
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