Pirates of Emerson: A Haunted Halloween Event in Pleasanton

Every fall, Pleasanton transforms into the Bay Area’s spookiest destination thanks to the return of Pirates of Emerson. Celebrating 35 years of frights, this haunted attraction has become the most anticipated Halloween event in Pleasanton and one of the most recognized in Northern California. Hosted at the Alameda County Fairgrounds in Pleasanton, Pirates of Emerson offers multiple haunted houses, creepy games, and entertainment that draw thousands of visitors each season.

A Pleasanton Tradition of Terror

Halloween in Pleasanton wouldn’t be complete without Pirates of Emerson. What started decades ago has grown into a nationally ranked haunted event that combines Hollywood-level sets with imaginative scares. Each year, Pleasanton locals and thrill seekers from across the Bay Area line up to experience the walk-through haunts, immersive environments, and fear-inducing attractions that make the event so unforgettable.

Unlike smaller haunted houses in neighboring towns, Pirates of Emerson takes full advantage of Pleasanton’s expansive fairgrounds. The venue allows for large-scale haunted houses, crowd-friendly games, and plenty of space for live entertainment—all while keeping everything within easy reach of downtown Pleasanton. Click here to watch a video of their thrills from 2024.

Haunted Attractions in Pleasanton

The 2025 season includes four terrifying haunted houses, each designed to push your fears to the limit. From sinister sets to unexpected jump scares, the level of detail is unmatched in Pleasanton or beyond. General admission tickets now include carnival-style games, so every guest has even more to enjoy between haunts.

For those who want an upgraded experience in Pleasanton, Speed Pass and V.I.P. options add extra thrills. The Speed Pass includes the exclusive Frightmares & Oddities attraction, plus shorter wait times. The V.I.P. ticket is the ultimate way to explore Pirates of Emerson in Pleasanton, it gives unlimited access to the haunted houses (time permitting) and even comes with a free return ticket for November 2, 2025.

Pleasanton Event Information

• Location: Alameda County Fairgrounds – Gate 8, 2005 Valley Avenue, Pleasanton, CA 94566

• Hours: Gates open at 7:05 PM and close between 10 PM and 12 AM, depending on the day. Click here for full schedule.

• Entry: All tickets are timed entry, so plan ahead when selecting your date and time

Visitors should note that all entry happens through Gate 8 on Valley Avenue in Pleasanton. The Pleasanton Avenue and Yellow Gates remain closed, so don’t attempt to enter from those directions. Once parked, guests will follow wayfinding signs into the secured entrance area.

Ticket Pricing for Pleasanton’s Haunted Event

• General Admission – $45
  Four haunted houses + games

• Speed Pass – $70
  Four haunted houses + Frightmares & Oddities + shorter lines

• V.I.P. – $125
  Unlimited access to haunted houses + Frightmares & Oddities + free bonus V.I.P. ticket for November 2

Tickets are sold online only, and capacity is limited each night. Pleasanton locals know that tickets sell quickly, especially closer to Halloween, so buying early is the best way to secure your spot. Click here to review the multiple ticket levels.

Who Should Attend in Pleasanton?

Pirates of Emerson is designed for older teens and adults who enjoy intense scares. Anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult 21 or older. Pleasanton families with younger children might prefer daytime fall festivals, but for those who want a true haunted experience, this Pleasanton event is the place to be.

Making the Most of Your Night in Pleasanton

To maximize your experience, arrive early and dress warmly—October nights in Pleasanton can get chilly. Plan time to enjoy food, games, and live entertainment between attractions. If you’re coming from outside the Tri-Valley, consider staying a little longer and checking out Pleasanton’s downtown restaurants and nightlife after your haunted adventure.

Pleasanton’s Halloween Spirit

What sets Pirates of Emerson apart is how deeply it’s woven into the community. Pleasanton hosts dozens of events throughout the year, but none match the energy and intensity of this Halloween tradition. For more than 30 years, Pirates of Emerson has helped put Pleasanton on the map as the Bay Area’s Halloween capital, bringing visitors from San Francisco, Oakland, San Jose, and beyond.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a Pleasanton resident or visiting from elsewhere in the Bay Area, Pirates of Emerson is the Halloween event you can’t miss. Four haunted houses, games, live entertainment, and the eerie atmosphere of the Alameda County Fairgrounds make this a one-of-a-kind experience.

Secure your tickets early, gather your bravest friends, and prepare to be terrified—because Pirates of Emerson in Pleasanton is waiting for you.