I think this intro graph is actually stronger without "Costumes, horror, and sugar rushes" so just a suggestion to leave that out! While Halloween might be the biggest event in October, there’s a lot more to Sacramento’s proverbial bag of tricks than a day of handing out treats. In fact, there’s an entire smorgasbord of must-dos, with big-named music festivals, local film fests, and cultural celebrations.

So set aside your candy bag — here are six festivals in Sacramento worth planning for this October.

Suggestion to style each of these festivals like we do Events
🎸 Aftershock Music Festival | Thurs., Oct. 6-Sun., Oct. 9 | Times vary | 1600 Garden Hwy. | $149.99+

The popular rock and heavy metal festival is positioned to shock by de-fault with big-named artists like Rob Zombie, Danzig, Kiss, and Sac’s very own Papa Roach.

🍻 Oktoberfest | Fri., Oct. 7 | 6-11:30p.m. | 3349 J St. | $5+

The Sacramento Turn Verein hosts this celebration of the Bavarian tradition, with authentic German beer, wine, and grub.

🇬🇷 Sacramento Greek Festival | Fri., Oct 7-Sun., Oct. 9 | 600 and 616 Alhambra Blvd. | Times vary | $5

Enjoy a taste of Mediterranean life at this block party in East Sacramento, featuring dancing lessons, cooking demonstrations, and a slate of dance and music performances spanning three days.

Paint like a rock star at the inaugural Golden Sky Festival. | Photo courtesy of Golden Sky Festival

💀 Día de los Muertos Fiesta | Fri., Oct. 14 | 6-10 p.m. | 1020 O St. | $10

The California Museum presents its celebration of the Mexican tradition with the grand opening of its new exhibit “Mujeres Inspiradoras,” an Aztec dance performance, sugar skull workshops, and more.

📽️ A Place Called Sacramento | Fri., Oct. 14 | 7 p.m. | 1013 K St. | $18

Catch the screenings of 10 locally-produced short films and vote for your favorite in the Crest Theatre’s historic event hall.

🪕 Goldensky Music Festival | Sat., Oct. 15-Sun., Oct. 16 | Times vary | 1600 Garden Hwy. | $77.95+

The country music festival will throw its inaugural lariat with headlining acts such as Tim McGraw and Sam Hunt, as well as bespoke experiences like a rock star paint class.