As October sweeps across New York, the crisp air doesn’t just bring breathtaking fall leaves; it also signals the kickoff of Halloween festivities. Among the plethora of seasonal activities, Pumpkin Nights emerges as a standout experience. Known for their distinctive “Jack-o’-lanterns,” Halloween pumpkins are transformed into a variety of spooky characters, from zombies to vampires and witches, amplifying the excitement of the season.
This year, we celebrate the 20th anniversary of The Great Jack O’ Lantern Blaze, a highly acclaimed event taking place each autumn in the Hudson Valley and Long Island. Featuring over 7,000 exquisitely carved pumpkins, this year’s exhibition is more grandiose than ever. In addition to traditional carvings, visitors can enjoy innovative lighting effects and musical performances, making it especially appealing for families.
Set against the backdrop of the stunning 18th-century Van Cortlandt Manor in the Hudson Valley, guests can meander through gardens illuminated by hand-carved lanterns, explore the charming brick ferry house, and perhaps catch a glimpse of the legendary headless horseman. On Long Island, the event unfolds at Old Bethpage Village Restoration, a sprawling 209-acre living museum that serves as a premier Halloween locale. Visitors can enjoy pathways lined with pumpkins amidst historic 19th-century buildings and the glow of over 7,000 flickering jack-o’-lanterns, creating a truly enchanting experience.
Tickets for the Hudson Valley Blaze and Blaze: Long Island are currently available, with the former running through November 17 and the latter until November 3. For more information, visit pumpkinblaze.org.
Meanwhile, at the Bronx Zoo—New York City’s largest and America’s biggest urban zoo—“Pumpkin Nights” is more than just a display; it’s an exhilarating visual spectacle showcasing over 5,000 animal-themed jack-o’-lanterns. After a successful debut last year, this year’s event is set to be even more spectacular.
What sets the Bronx Zoo’s exhibition apart is its focus on natural ecology, recreating various animal habitats such as the Amazon rainforest, the Himalayas, the Congo jungle, a deep-sea area, and the African savanna. The experience is enhanced with fog, bubble machines, and vibrant lighting, adding to the overall mystique.
It’s important to note that while the event occurs within the zoo, animal exhibits are not included. Guests wishing to see the animals must visit during regular daytime hours. Pumpkin Nights runs every Thursday through Sunday until October 27. For more details, check out bronxzoo.com/pumpkin-nights.
In a similar vein, the New York Botanical Garden is introducing a Halloween-themed light trail inspired by Tim Burton’s iconic 1993 Disney film, “The Nightmare Before Christmas.” This special event will be open through November 30.
Spanning over 8,300 square feet, the light trail features cutting-edge technology, including interactive projections, smart LED lights, and 3D-printed sculptures that bring beloved characters to life. Visitors will feel as if they’ve stepped directly into Tim Burton’s fantastical world. For further information, visit thenightmarebeforechristmaslighttrail.com.
Beyond the captivating pumpkin displays, New York is brimming with Halloween-themed activities waiting to be explored. Major retailers like Costco and Trader Joe’s are already stocked with pumpkins, providing a perfect opportunity for families to engage in the joyful tradition of carving together, adding a creative twist to their autumn celebrations.
