Last year, we visited the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular at the Minnesota Zoo, and it was amazing! With thousands of glowing pumpkins, impressive artwork, and displays grouped by themes, there was so much to see. We spent about an hour walking through, and it could easily have taken longer.
The trail was one-way, which worked great, and while it’s stroller-friendly, there are some hills to keep in mind. I also enjoyed having plenty of food and beverage options along the way—including a hot chocolate!
So, when I saw that the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular is returning September 25th–November 1st, 2026, I knew I wanted to share this year’s details. Tickets are now available to the general public, and there are some fun new experiences, seasonal treats, and adult-only nights to look forward to.
If you’re thinking about making this a fall outing, here’s what to know before you go!
When is the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular in 2026?
The Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular returns September 25th through November 1st, 2026.
Members had an exclusive presale September 2–7, and tickets became available to the general public on September 8 at 10 a.m.
If you’re hoping to go, I wouldn’t wait too long. Tickets sell out every year, and all tickets must be purchased online in advance.
What to Expect on the Pumpkin Trail
This one-of-a-kind experience takes you on a stroll through more than 5,000 artistically carved, glowing pumpkins.
The artwork is impressive, with displays grouped by themes and so many details to stop and admire. Last year, I spent about an hour walking through, and it could easily take longer if you want to take your time and enjoy everything.
The trail is one-way, which worked really well for the flow of the experience. It’s also stroller-friendly, although there are hills and some considerable elevation changes to be aware of.
This year, the Minnesota Zoo says the pumpkin trail itself is approximately ¼ mile and generally takes 40–50 minutes to experience. From Celebration Plaza, it’s another approximately 10-minute walk to the trailhead.
So, plan on more than just a quick walk through!
2026 Ticket Prices
General admission tickets range from:
- Adults: $23–$30
- Children and adults 65+: $19–$26
- Parking: $10 per car for non-members
Minnesota Zoo members receive $3–$4 off general admission tickets.
Join the Minnesota Zoo today and use your discount immediately!
Children ages 0–2 are free and do not need tickets. Tickets are nonrefundable, and a ticket exchange fee applies if you move your tickets to another available day or time.
Plan to Arrive Early
Your ticket time is when you should enter the pumpkin trail—not when you should arrive at the zoo.
The Minnesota Zoo recommends arriving 30 minutes before your time slot. That gives you time to:
- Walk from the parking lot
- Check in your tickets
- Enjoy a sweet treat, music, and activities in Central Plaza
- Make your way to the pumpkin trailhead
Arriving early means you can relax and be ready to step onto the Pumpkin Trail at your scheduled time.
Priority Pumpkin Pass
Want to spend less time waiting and more time glowing?
The Priority Pumpkin Pass is an optional add-on that provides expedited entry to the Pumpkin Trail, plus unlimited access to the trail throughout the evening. That means you can revisit your favorite displays and catch details you may have missed the first time.
A few things to know:
- Each paying guest needs their own pass.
- The pass must be purchased with a Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular admission ticket for the same date.
- Only 100 passes are available per night.
- It is not available as an add-on during the 18+ nights.
It’s a nice option if you want a little more flexibility during your visit.
Adult-Only Nights in 2026
Looking for a grown-up night out? This year’s Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular includes three 18+ nights, each with its own theme.
September 25th – Oktoberfest at the Farm
Celebrate autumn with the animals! This special evening includes farm friends, German specialties, draft beverages, and a polka band before you head to the Pumpkin Trail.
There are two ways to enjoy the night:
Farm First + Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular: Doors open at 5 p.m., and the event begins at 6 p.m.
Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular Only: 8:30–10 p.m. arrival options.
Tickets are $45 per adult, plus $10 for parking per car for non-members. Members receive $5 off each ticket.
October 7th – A Night of Trivia with Trivia Mafia
Think you know your stuff? Trivia Mafia will be bringing creepy, curious, and downright tricky questions to this adults-only evening.
Start with trivia, then head to the pumpkin trail, or skip the trivia and go straight to the pumpkins.
Trivia First + Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular: Doors open at 5 p.m., trivia begins at 6 p.m.
Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular Only: 8:30–10 p.m. arrival options.
Tickets are $45 per adult, plus $10 for parking per car for non-members. Members receive $5 off each ticket.
October 31st – Halloween Night
Halloween is on a Saturday this year, and the pumpkins are ready to celebrate!
Enjoy thousands of glowing jack-o-lanterns, festive drinks, and a trail made for the fall season. Costumes are admired but not required—just leave the little goblins at home.
Tickets are $45 per adult, plus $10 for parking per car for non-members. Members receive $5 off each ticket.
Come Hungry: Seasonal Eats & Treats
One of my favorite parts of a fall outing is having something warm and delicious to enjoy along the way, and the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular has plenty of options.
This year’s menu includes some fun new items, like the Banshee’s Irish Spice Bag, loaded with chicken, crispy tots, peppers, and onions, and the Ghostly Inferno Burger, topped with Ghost Pepper Cheddar, raspberry serrano jam, potato strings, and herb aioli.
You’ll also find classics like:
- Burgers
- Chicago-style hot dogs
- Cheese curds
- Loaded tots
- Warm Bavarian pretzels
- Kettle corn
- S’mores kits
- Pumpkin cookies
- Pumpkin swirl cake
- Gluten-free brownies
There are also plenty of plant-based and gluten-free options, including crispy tots, Fiery Buffalo Cauliflower, a Falafel Wrap, Chips & Guacamole, and Veggie Sticks & Dip.
And don’t forget the seasonal drinks!
The Harvest Moon Hot Chocolate sounds like the perfect treat, with dark chocolate, sweet orange syrup, whipped cream, sprinkles, brownie bites, and chocolate-covered dried orange.
There’s also Firelight Cider, a warm apple cider topped with caramel, whipped cream, and cinnamon.
For guests 21+, there are also beer, hard seltzers, cocktails, and options to add a little extra spirit to select hot beverages.
Accessibility & What to Know Before You Go
The Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular is an outdoor, nighttime experience that takes place rain or shine.
The Minnesota Zoo notes that guests should expect:
- Thousands of illuminated pumpkins
- Colorful and changing lighting effects
- Fog
- Music and amplified sound
- Varying terrain and elevation changes
- A considerable incline
- Potential wait times and crowds
If you’re sensitive to sound, ear protection or noise-reducing headphones may be helpful.
The trail is accessible to guests using mobility assistive devices, but the elevation changes and incline are important to keep in mind. Standard wheelchairs, extended-size wheelchairs, and motorized ECVs are available to rent on a first-come, first-served basis at the Guest Services Desk inside the zoo entrance.
It’s also a good idea to check the forecast and dress for the weather. Fall nights in Minnesota can be chilly!
Check out my reel from last year:
View this post on Instagram
A Fall Tradition Worth Planning For
Between the glowing pumpkins, themed displays, seasonal food, and special adult-only nights, the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular is such a fun way to enjoy the fall season.
Whether you’re planning a family outing, a date night, or a night out with friends, there’s plenty to look forward to.
And if you’re thinking about going this year, now is the time to grab your tickets!
Read my review from last year!
Are you planning to visit the Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular in 2026? 🎃
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