Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular at the Minnesota Zoo, Sept. 30-Nov. 4

Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular returns bigger and better than ever at the Minnesota Zoo! Gather your family and friends and come explore our glowing trail with thousands of artistically carved pumpkins. This year’s trail will lead you on a magical journey through "Seasons of the Year" featuring artists’ new creations and plenty of seasonal fun. Secure your tickets today! All tickets are sold online only and valid only for the date and time selected. Tickets are non-refundable.

Thank you for your support of the Minnesota Zoo and our mission to connect people, animals, and the natural world to save wildlife.

Ticketing and Event Schedule

September 30 – November 4

For a limited time only, this spirited event lights up the autumn nights at the Minnesota Zoo. It’s not a trick – tickets sell out every year! Purchase your tickets today to treat yourself to the magic and beauty of the season.
All tickets are sold online only and valid only for the date and time selected. Tickets are non-refundable.

Tickets range from $18-24 for adults and $14 -20 for children/65+ adults
Members receive $2 off general admission tickets
A ticket change fee will apply when moving tickets to another available day/time
Late night pricing for extra savings!

Gates open 30 minutes before the first ticket time of the evening and close 2 hours after the last ticket time. Please arrive no more than 30 minutes ahead of your scheduled entry time. A seasonal selection of beverages and snacks will be available to purchase at various locations on your way to, from, and through the pumpkin trail.

Accessibility at Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular

Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular is an outdoor, rain or shine event, so please dress for the weather. The walk to the entrance to the pumpkin trail takes about 10 minutes on varying terrain (about ¼ mile to the trail). The Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular trail is an additional quarter mile and takes about 40 – 50 minutes to walk through the pumpkin display. Wait time to enter the show may vary depending on attendance.

From October 30 – November 4, Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular will have a Nightly Access Time from 5:30 – 7 pm. During this time period, we’ve reduced capacity and reduced the volume of effects such as music and fog. Golf cart transportation to the trail is available on a first-come, first-served basis during our Nightly Access Times.

Personalized Pumpkins

Customize your very own jack-o-lantern with a personalized message or image! You can have an artistically and professionally carved pumpkin placed on display and glowing for all to see. Your jack-o-lantern will be on display the night of your visit, and yours to take home when you leave. Reserve your pumpkin today! Cost includes admission for two to Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular. No corporate logos will be accepted.

*Requests must be made at least 10 business days prior to your visit in order to create your pumpkin.

Click HERE for FAQ