Fall takes on a glowing new look at the Minnesota Zoo as thousands of carved pumpkins return for the 2026 Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular. The seasonal event transforms the Zoo after dark with more than 5,000 illuminated pumpkins, artistic displays, an expanded trail and activities for visitors of different ages. There is also plenty happening beyond the pumpkin walk, from seasonal food and drinks to themed adult nights, music and dancing. With timed tickets, a lengthy walking route and several special events on the calendar, there are a few details visitors will want to know before making plans.
More Than 5,000 Pumpkins Will Light the Trail
The scale of the Minnesota Zoo’s Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular is one of its defining features. More than 5,000 artistically carved pumpkins will be illuminated along the trail, creating a nighttime display that combines traditional jack-o-lanterns with detailed artistic designs and glowing effects. The pumpkins are designed by Passion for Pumpkins, which works with local Minnesota artists to bring the display to life. The 2026 event runs from September 25 through November 1, giving visitors several weeks to experience the seasonal attraction.
The Trail Has Expanded With a New Trivia Twist
This year’s experience adds more than extra pumpkins to the walk. The Minnesota Zoo says the route has been expanded, with new experiences on the plaza and more space for visitors to explore. A new trivia theme also runs through the pumpkin trail. Guests encounter questions as they walk, with the carved pumpkins providing the answers. The questions are designed for different ages, so children and adults can both take part while moving through the illuminated display.
Tickets Are Tied to Specific Dates and Times
Planning ahead matters because Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular uses timed admission rather than open-ended entry. Tickets must be purchased online in advance and are valid only for the date and time selected. The Minnesota Zoo lists general admission at $23 to $30 for adults and $19 to $26 for children, while children ages 2 and younger enter free without a ticket. Nonmembers also pay $10 per vehicle for parking. Tickets are nonrefundable, although an exchange fee applies when moving a ticket to another available date or time.
The Pumpkin Walk Takes Nearly an Hour
The glowing pumpkins are not immediately outside the entrance, so visitors should allow time for the full experience. From Celebration Plaza, it takes roughly 10 minutes to walk about a quarter-mile to the beginning of the pumpkin trail. The trail itself adds another quarter-mile and generally takes 40 to 50 minutes to complete. The route includes changing terrain, elevation differences and a considerable incline, so guests should be prepared for an extended period of walking or rolling.
Three Nights Are Reserved for Adults
The Minnesota Zoo is also setting aside three evenings specifically for visitors 18 and older. Adult Nights are scheduled for September 25, October 7 and October 31, with admission priced at $45 per adult. Each evening has its own programming. The September 25 event combines the pumpkin experience with an Oktoberfest celebration at the Farm, while October 7 features Trivia Mafia. Halloween night brings a separate 18-plus celebration with glowing pumpkins and seasonal festivities.
Fall Food and Drinks Are Part of the Experience
There is plenty happening around the pumpkin trail before visitors even begin the walk. The Zoo’s seasonal menu includes familiar fall favorites alongside new offerings such as the Banshee’s Irish Spice Bag and Ghostly Inferno Burger. Other choices include Bavarian pretzels, hot dogs, cheese curds, loaded tots, pumpkin cookies, pumpkin swirl cake, kettle corn and s’mores kits. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and dairy-free options are also available, while seasonal drinks include Harvest Moon Hot Chocolate and Firelight Cider.
The Night Continues After the Pumpkins
Visitors do not have to leave as soon as they finish the trail. The event areas offer photo opportunities, shopping, food, drinks and dancing before and after the pumpkin walk. The Monster Mash Dance Party takes place in Central Plaza and Pumpkin Plaza, while Discovery Bay hosts a Silent Dance Party. Guests can also stay until the event closes, with closing times varying by the date. The Zoo notes that most animal viewing areas and the Treetop Trail are closed during the event, although Discovery Bay animals can be viewed until 8 p.m.
