All Things Pumpkin in Long Beach
When fall arrives, you inevitably think about pumpkins, and chances are your thoughts run toward images of frothy lattes and hay-laden patches.
Oh, does Long Beach have so much more for you! Here, you’ll also find pumpkins in fiery curries, creamy pies and spirited cocktails. Whether you like your pumpkin sweet, savory, spicy or shaken into a martini—you heard us—there are plenty of ways to enjoy the season. So don’t squash your options; check out some of these great pumpkin-themed dishes, drinks and activities in Long Beach.
PUMPKIN PATCH
Kick off the Halloween season at El Dorado Frontier (7550 E Spring St), starting Sept. 26, 2026, during its eighth annual Pumpkin Patch, open weekends through the end of October. Located inside Long Beach’s sprawling El Dorado Park, the Frontier celebrates opening weekend with a Spooktacular Adventure featuring a Monster Mash Dance Party, spooky storytelling and other fall festivities. Families can ride the train, explore seasonal attractions and, of course, hunt for the perfect pumpkin.
PUMPKIN PIE
When autumn arrives, pumpkin pie takes its annual turn in the spotlight, and Laurie’s Pie Bar (450 Pine Ave) gives the classic plenty to celebrate. Laurie’s version combines creamy pumpkin filling, warm seasonal spices and a buttery crust in the quintessential fall dessert. It’s the kind of pie that can turn an ordinary afternoon into a celebration of the season. Grab a slice when the craving hits, or take home a whole pie and become, at least temporarily, the most popular person at the dinner table.
PUMPKIN SPICE LATTE
There’s a good chance that when you saw the word “pumpkin,” you reflexively added “spice.” Pumpkin spice beverages—especially lattes—are among fall’s most anticipated traditions. Long Beach coffee havens like The Merchant, Colossus and Recreational Coffee put their own spins on the seasonal classic. And they are hardly alone. Plenty of Long Beach coffee establishments embrace the pumpkin spice when autumn rolls around. Find more local favorites below.
PUMPKIN SPICE MARTINI, THE BLIND DONKEY
Pumpkin spice isn’t just for lattes. At The Blind Donkey (149 Linden Ave), the season gets a more spirited treatment with its Pumpkin Spice Martini. Think fall’s favorite flavors shaken into a cocktail that’s part seasonal sipper, part dessert and all martini. It’s a festive way to get your pumpkin fix. Order one, settle in and let pumpkin spice season begin, albeit with a little more spirit.
PUMPKIN CURRY
Thai District (149 Linden Ave) puts a Thai spin on pumpkin season with its Kabocha Curry, made with Japanese pumpkin. Creamy coconut milk and red curry paste create a rich base for tender chunks of pumpkin, while spice, peppers and Thai basil add heat, color and depth. Served with jasmine rice, the curry is both comforting and satisfying, with the pumpkin’s natural sweetness balancing the dish’s savory, spicy flavors. It’s a delicious seasonal twist on a Thai favorite.
KANG PA, NAREE THAI
Pumpkin may be the star of Kang Pa at Naree Thai (555 E Ocean Blvd), but don’t expect a sweet pumpkin dish. This Thai curry is loved—and perhaps feared by some—for the serious heat it brings. Fiery spices play against the pumpkin’s natural sweetness and creamy texture resulting in a bold, aromatic curry with a satisfying burn that keeps you coming back for another bite. It’s a welcome departure from pumpkin’s typically sweeter fall routine and a reminder that this squash can pack a wallop.
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