San Francisco Halloween Pub Crawl FAQ

The San Francisco Halloween Pub Crawl, also known as Crawloween, returns in 2026 for its 15th annual celebration. Produced by CrawlSF, the event brings thousands of costumed guests to bars and nightlife venues across San Francisco for four days of Halloween parties, drink specials, DJs, contests & fun.

If you have any questions about the event, check out the FAQs below or feel free to contact us. 

What is the San Francisco Halloween Pub Crawl?

The San Francisco Halloween Pub Crawl is a citywide Halloween nightlife event that allows ticket holders to visit participating bars and venues during the scheduled crawl. Instead of staying in one location, guests can choose their own route, visit several neighborhoods and spend the evening moving between different parties.

Participating venues offer free entry for wristband holders, drink specials, DJs, dancing, entertainment and other activities. Costumes are strongly encouraged.

What is Crawloween?

Crawloween is the name used for CrawlSF’s San Francisco Halloween Pub Crawl. It is the Halloween version of the large pub crawls produced by CrawlSF throughout the year.

The event combines several individual bar crawls into one larger Halloween celebration. Each date has its own schedule and participating venues, while the main Halloween day typically includes the largest number of guests, bars, costume groups and special activities.

When is the 2026 San Francisco Halloween Pub Crawl?

The 2026 San Francisco Halloween Pub Crawl takes place on four dates:

Saturday, October 24, 2026: 4PM to 10PM

Friday, October 30, 2026: 6PM to 11PM

Saturday, October 31, 2026: 2PM to 10PM

Sunday, November 1, 2026: 4PM to 10PM

Which day is the biggest?

Saturday, October 31 is expected to be the largest day of the 2026 event. It runs from 2PM to 10PM and features the biggest concentration of participating bars, costumed guests and Halloween activities.

It is also the best day to attend if you want the full Crawloween experience, including the largest costume crowds and the main Party Bus service. Because it is expected to be very busy, you should plan their route, arrive early and allow extra time for check-in and transportation.

Is this the 15th annual San Francisco Halloween Pub Crawl?

Yes. The 2026 event is the 15th annual San Francisco Halloween Pub Crawl

The event began as a much smaller Halloween bar crawl created by CrawlSF. It has grown over the years as more bars, neighborhoods and guests have joined the celebration. What started as a local night out is now the largest Halloween pub crawl in the United States.

Who produces the San Francisco Halloween Pub Crawl?

The event is produced by CrawlSF, a San Francisco event company that has been creating large pub crawls and nightlife events for more than 20 years.

CrawlSF also produces other major San Francisco events, including LepraCon St. Patrick’s Day, SanFranCinco, the Fourth of July Pub Crawl and other themed crawls throughout the year. The company works with local bars and nightlife venues to create large events across different parts of the city.

How large is the event?

The San Francisco Halloween Pub Crawl has grown into one of the largest Halloween nightlife events in the city and the country. Thousands of people attend across the four dates, with the biggest crowds expected on October 31.

The 2026 event includes dozens of participating bars across several San Francisco neighborhoods. The final list will include more than 40 venues, with the main Halloween event expected to feature an especially large number of locations.

Because venues can change, the final bar list and event map should be checked shortly before attending.

Where does the pub crawl take place?

The San Francisco Halloween Pub Crawl takes place across several popular nightlife neighborhoods rather than at one single venue. Participating locations including:

• The Marina and Cow Hollow

• Russian Hill

• Polk Gulch and Lower Polk

• Nob Hill

• Union Square

• North Beach

• Other nearby San Francisco neighborhoods

The exact neighborhood mix will vary by date. 

What bars are participating?

Participating bars are expected to include a mix of returning CrawlSF venues and new locations. Examples from the 2026 event planning list include Mayes Oyster House, Rick & Roxy’s, Union Street Ale House, The Summer Place, The Blue Light, Sacred Taco, Route 101, Palm House, The Brixton, Comet Club, White Rabbit, Moez Tavern, McTeague’s Saloon, Music City Starfactory, Rockwell, Jaxson, Last Drop Tavern, Wizards & Wands, El Lopo, Wreck Room, Shanghai Kelly’s, The Buccaneer, Silver Cloud, Persona, Owl Tree, Zhuzh, Campus, Westwood, Nitecap, The Outsider, Kung Fu Action Theater, Amsterdam Cafe, Hanaro, Decodance, R Bar, Uni Pizza, Lush Lounge, Beso Mae and others.

The final venue list may be different for each date. Some bars participate on multiple days, while others are included only on a specific date. The official map and bar list will be launched closer the the event date.

How do I check in?

To begin the event, go to one of the advertised check-in locations during the check-in window for your chosen date. After your ticket is scanned, you will receive your Crawloween wristband and event information.

The wristband identifies you as a ticket holder and is used for entry and drink specials at participating venues. The event map can also include participating bars, drink specials, Party Bus stops and other helpful information.

Where are the 2026 check-in locations?

The announced check-in locations include:

Mayes Oyster House

1233 Polk Street

San Francisco, CA 94109

Rick & Roxy’s

2131 Lombard Street

San Francisco, CA 94123

Union Street Ale House

1980 Union Street

San Francisco, CA 94123

The Summer Place

801 Bush Street

San Francisco, CA 94108

Not every check-in location is open on every date. The Summer Place is listed for October 31 only, while Union Street Ale House is listed for October 30 and October 31. Rick & Roxy’s is listed for October 24, October 30 and October 31. Mayes is listed as a check-in location for all four dates.

What are the check-in times?

The current check-in windows are:

October 24: 4PM to 8PM

October 30: 6PM to 9PM

October 31: 2PM to 8PM

November 1: 4PM to 8PM

Guests should check in as early as possible, especially on October 31. Lines may be longer during the busiest arrival periods and checking in early gives you more time to visit participating bars.

Can I check in at any location?

You may check in at any announced check in location that is operating on your selected date. Some locations are date specific, so confirm that the location you choose is available for the day printed on your ticket.

If you are meeting friends, it is usually easiest to agree on one check-in location before arriving. After everyone has received a wristband, your group can choose its route from the event map.

What does my ticket include?

Ticket inclusions can vary slightly by date, but the event generally includes:

• Entry to participating venues during the event

• Access to drink specials

• DJs and entertainment at participating bars

• A Crawloween wristband

• An event map

• Costume contest

• The Find the Gnome Contest

• Party favors or other Halloween surprises

How much do tickets cost?

Ticket prices vary by date and can increase as the event gets closer. Advance tickets start at $12.

The most accurate price is the one shown on the official ticket page. Buying early is usually the best way to find the lowest available price.

Do I need a different ticket for each day?

Tickets are sold by event date. Make sure the date on your ticket matches the day you plan to attend.

4-Day passes and Halloween Weekend passes will also be available for purchase. 

Can I attend more than one day?

Yes. Many guests attend more than one Crawloween date, especially people who want to experience different bars, neighborhoods and party atmospheres.

Are the bars free after I buy a ticket?

Your wristband provides free entry to participating venues during the event. This applies only to participating locations.

A venue can temporarily stop admitting guests if it reaches capacity. A wristband does not guarantee immediate entry to a crowded bar and normal venue rules still apply.

Are drinks included with admission?

No. Drinks are not included with the price of admission. Instead, participating bars offer special prices on selected beers, shots, cocktails and other items.

Drink menus and prices can vary by venue and date. The event map or official event information will include the latest specials. 

What kinds of drink specials can I expect?

Previous Crawloween events have included low-priced beer, shots, cocktails and Halloween-themed drinks. Examples have included pumpkin-inspired cocktails, themed shots, specialty mixed drinks, draft beer and bottled beer.

The final 2026 drink menus will be released closer to the event. 

Is there a set schedule for visiting each bar?

No. The San Francisco Halloween Pub Crawl is designed as a flexible event rather than a guided tour with a required order. There are too many people participating in the crawl to go to each bar as a group.

Once you check in, you can choose which participating bars to visit and how long to stay at each one. There is no requirement to visit every venue, and there is no official schedule that tells you when to leave one bar for the next.

Do I have to visit every participating bar?

No. With dozens of venues involved, it would not be practical for you to visit every bar. 

Some guests stay in one neighborhood for most of the event. Others visit a few bars in the Marina, then use public transportation, rideshare or the Party Bus to reach another area.

Is there a Party Bus?

Yes. CrawlSF offers a free Party Bus for the event. The buses help connect selected neighborhoods and participating locations during the busiest part of the event.

The main Party Bus will be available for the large Saturday, October 31 event. The exact routes, stops and operating times are published closer to the event.

Do I need my wristband to ride the Party Bus?

Yes. You should have your event wristband visible when using the Party Bus. The service is intended for registered Crawloween guests.

Where does the Party Bus go?

The bus maps will be added to the CrawlSF and Crawloween websites closer to the event date. There will be more than 10 large buses that will rotate through the event with esy pickup/drop off locations. 

Is the Party Bus a ride home?

No. The Party Bus is designed to move guests between selected Crawloween neighborhoods and venues. 

Is the event 21 and over?

Yes. The San Francisco Halloween Pub Crawl is a nightlife event and guests must be 21 or older to participate.

Bring a valid, government-issued photo ID. Venues may check identification at the door, at check-in or when alcohol is purchased. Photos of IDs, expired IDs and unofficial copies may not be accepted.

What should I wear?

Costumes are strongly encouraged. You can wear a full costume, a coordinated group outfit, a simple Halloween look or a few themed accessories.

Because you may be walking between bars, choose shoes and clothing that are comfortable enough for several hours. San Francisco weather can change quickly, especially at night, so consider bringing a jacket or building one into your costume.

Avoid costumes that make it difficult to see, walk, breathe or use public transportation. Masks may need to be removed at check-in and at venue entrances.

Can I enter in regular clothes?

Yes. A costume is encouraged but not required for admission. You can still enjoy the drink specials, DJs, bars and contests without wearing a full costume.

Is there a costume contest?

Yes. The event includes a Crawloween Costume Contest with opportunities for individual and group costumes.

Contest details, entry instructions, judging times and prizes will be announced closer to the event. Watch the official event information for the final rules.

What is the Find the Gnome Contest?

The Find the Gnome Contest is a Halloween scavenger hunt built into the pub crawl. Small Halloween gnomes are hidden at selected participating bars, and guests who find one may be able to bring it to a designated check-in location to claim a prize.

Is food available?

Some participating bars serve food or have food available nearby. There is usally a few food options included on the specials list as well.  Some locations may offer bar snacks, sandwiches, tacos, pizza or other late-night options.

Can I leave and come back?

Re-entry policies are controlled by each venue. A wristband may allow you to move between participating bars, but it does not override a venue’s capacity rules, security procedures or re-entry policy.

If you leave a crowded location, ask staff whether you will be allowed back in before stepping outside.

What happens if a bar reaches capacity?

Popular locations may reach capacity, especially on October 31. If a bar is full, security or venue staff may pause entry until guests leave.

Your wristband does not guarantee immediate access to a venue that is at capacity.

How should I get around San Francisco during the event?

The best transportation option depends on your route and where you plan to finish the night. Walking works well within individual neighborhoods, while Muni, BART, taxis, rideshare services and the Party Bus can help with longer distances.

Give yourself extra time. Halloween crowds, street closures, event traffic and rideshare demand can make trips slower than usual.

If you are using rideshare, choose a well-lit pickup area and confirm the vehicle and driver before getting in. If you are driving, arrange a designated driver and never drive after drinking.

Is parking available?

Parking is available in garages and on some city streets, but spaces can be limited and expensive in busy nightlife areas. Halloween crowds may also make street parking more difficult than usual.

Is the event safe?

CrawlSF works with participating venues and event staff to operate a large public event, but guests are responsible for making smart decisions throughout the night.

Stay with your group, keep your phone charged, drink water, eat during the event and pace yourself. Keep your wallet and phone secure in crowded areas. If someone in your group feels sick, overly intoxicated or unsafe, tell venue staff immediately.

Do not drink and drive. Plan your transportation before the event begins and use a sober driver, public transportation, taxi or rideshare service.

What should I bring?

Bring a valid photo ID, your ticket or ticket confirmation, a charged phone and a payment method. A portable phone charger can be useful if you expect to stay out for several hours.

Wear comfortable shoes and bring a light layer for San Francisco’s evening weather. Avoid bringing large bags, unnecessary valuables or costume accessories that could be difficult to carry through crowded venues.

Can I bring a backpack or large bag?

Bag policies are set by individual venues. Large backpacks, oversized bags, props and accessories may be refused at the door or subject to inspection.

Can I bring costume props?

Costume props may be allowed, but each venue has the right to refuse an item that could create a safety problem. Realistic weapons, sharp objects, large hard props, glass items and anything that could be used to hurt someone should be left at home.

Can I bring outside drinks or food?

No. Outside alcohol is not allowed and outside food and drink policies are controlled by each venue. Guests should purchase drinks and food from participating locations or nearby businesses that allow it.

What if I lose my wristband?

Contact event staff or return to a check-in location as soon as possible. Wristband replacement is not guaranteed, so keep it secure and do not remove it during the event.

Do not transfer your wristband to another person. Tickets and wristbands may be subject to the terms listed at purchase.

What if I lose my phone or personal items?

Ask the venue where you think you lost the item and check with event staff at a check-in location. Lost-and-found procedures vary by venue.

Can I attend if I am not drinking?

Yes. You can enjoy the costumes, music, atmosphere, contests and neighborhood hopping without drinking alcohol. If you are the designated driver, let your group know and plan to remain sober for the entire event.

Nonalcoholic options vary by venue. 

What happens if the weather is bad?

Most of the event takes place inside participating bars, but guests may need to walk or wait outside between locations. San Francisco weather can be cool, windy or rainy in late October and early November.

Wear layers, bring weather-appropriate clothing and use a jacket that works with your costume. Party Bus operations and outdoor lines may be affected by weather or traffic.

Does the event take place if a venue changes its plans?

The pub crawl is planned across many participating locations, so one venue may change its hours or participation without affecting the entire event. The final map and official event updates are the best source for current information.

Event details, participating bars, specials, contest rules and transportation plans are subject to change.

Are tickets refundable?

Refund and transfer policies depend on the ticket terms shown at the time of purchase. Read the ticket page carefully before completing your order.

Where can I find the latest updates?

Check the official Crawloween and CrawlSF websites as Halloween approaches. The final event map, venue list, drink specials, check-in details, contest information and Party Bus routes may be posted or updated shortly before each date.

Guests should use the information for the current year rather than relying on maps, schedules or venue lists from previous Crawloween events.

Quick Event Summary

Event: San Francisco Halloween Pub Crawl

Produced by: CrawlSF

Annual event: 15th annual in 2026

Dates: October 24, October 30, October 31 and November 1, 2026

Age requirement: 21 and over with valid photo ID

Check-in locations: Mayes Oyster House, Rick & Roxy’s, Union Street Ale House and The Summer Place on designated dates

Includes: Wristband, participating venue access, drink specials, DJs, contests, event information and designated Party Bus service

Important: Final bar lists, drink specials, contest rules, check-in details and transportation routes are subject to change