Jack-O-Lantern Spooktacular

Name: Jack-O-Lantern Spooktacular
Start: 2026-09-26
End: 2026-10-30
Location: Apple Valley

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ABOUT THIS EVENT

The Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular experience begin the moment you arrive at the Zoo. With an expanded route and new experiences on the plaza, there’s more space to explore – and even better views of thousands of glowing pumpkins. Stroll the woodsy trail surrounded by spectacularly carved pumpkins and glowing displays. Whether it’s your first visit or a fall tradition, there’s something to discover around every turn. This year, trivia takes center stage! Put your trivia skills to the test as you make your way along the trail. You’ll encounter trivia questions, and the pumpkins themselves are the answers – can you figure out which pumpkin is the right one? From questions kids will know to answers the adults will recognize, the pumpkin artists have plenty of tricks to keep everyone guessing.

GALLERY

GETTING THERE

13000 Zoo Boulevard, Apple Valley, MN

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Admission

$29 - $36

Restriction

All Ages

DatesSep 26 – Oct 30
Hours7:00pm - 11:00pm
Websitemnzoo.org

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Safety protocol

Accessibility & What to Expect
We want all guests to feel prepared before experiencing Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular. This is an outdoor, nighttime experience that takes place rain or shine and includes a variety of sights, sounds and terrain.
Before you visit, here’s what to expect:
Lights & visual effects: The experience features thousands of illuminated pumpkins, colorful and changing lighting effects, and fog.
Music & sound: Music and amplified sound are featured throughout the experience. Guests who are sensitive to sound may wish to bring ear protection or noise-reducing headphones.
Walking distance: From Celebration Plaza, it is approximately a 10-minute (¼-mile) walk to the start of the pumpkin trail. The trail itself is approximately another ¼ mile and generally takes 40–50 minutes to experience.
Terrain & elevation: The route includes varying terrain, elevation changes and a considerable incline. Guests should plan for an extended period of walking or rolling.
Wait times & crowds: Wait times to enter the pumpkin trail may vary depending on attendance, and some areas may experience higher crowd levels.
Weather: Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular is an outdoor event and runs rain or shine. Please check the forecast and dress for the conditions.
Mobility Accessibility
The Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular trail is accessible to guests using mobility assistive devices. Please be aware that the route includes elevation changes and a considerable incline. Standard wheelchairs, extended-size wheelchairs and motorized ECVs are available to rent on a first-come, first-served basis only at the Guest Services Desk inside the Zoo’s entrance, not at the pumpkin trail. We encourage guests to review these details before their visit and bring any personal items that may help make the experience more comfortable.
We do not allow flash photography, tripods, monopods, or selfie sticks as a courtesy and safety measure. Otherwise, you may take photos and videos as long as it does not impede the views of others or the flow of traffic on the trail. And tag the Minnesota Zoo! We might share your photos on our feed – plus, we enjoy seeing our guests have fun!
No outside food and drink are allowed at Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular. You can bring water and baby bottles.