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The Cincinnati Zoo’s Jack O’Lantern Glow returns Oct. 2 with more than 6,000 hand-carved pumpkins. The third annual event will feature more than 20 themes along a half-mile trail. More than 15 local artists contributed more than 7,036 hours of carving to the display.
The Cincinnati Zoo’s Jack O’Lantern Glow will return Oct. 2 with more than 6,000 hand-carved pumpkins along a half-mile trail.
The third annual event will feature more than 20 themes and expanded displays for the 2026 season.
The family-friendly Halloween experience will run through Oct. 31, except Mondays Oct. 5, 12 and 19. The illuminated trail will transform parts of the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden into a fall display featuring thousands of carved pumpkins.
The zoo describes the event as the largest of its kind in the Tri-state area.
More pumpkins and themes planned
This year’s Jack O’Lantern Glow will feature more than 6,000 hand-carved and decorated pumpkins arranged throughout more than 20 themed areas. More than 15 local artists created the pumpkins, according to the zoo.
The carving process involved more than 7,036 hours of work. Some of the pumpkins with highly detailed designs can take more than eight hours to carve.
The zoo has also expanded the event’s layout to accommodate additional themes and displays.
The pumpkins are illuminated along a roughly half-mile walking trail. Visitors typically spend about 35 to 45 minutes completing the experience.
Zoo buildings will stay open later
Visitors attending the event will also have access to the Reptile House and Night Hunters, which will remain open until 9 p.m. during Jack O’Lantern Glow.
The event is designed for all ages and is not intended to be a scary Halloween attraction.
The zoo will also offer fall-themed food and drinks during the event, including pumpkin spice beverages and other seasonal treats.
When is Jack O’Lantern Glow?
Jack O’Lantern Glow will run from Oct. 2 through Oct. 31, with the event closed on Oct. 5, 12 and 19.
The event runs from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays and from 5:30 to 10 p.m. Thursdays through Sundays. The first timed entry is at 6 p.m.
Tickets must be purchased in advance online. The event is separate from regular zoo admission and is not included with a Cincinnati Zoo membership.
Adult tickets range from $15 to $25, while children’s tickets range from $10 to $20. Zoo members receive a $3 to $5 discount per general admission ticket.
The zoo also offers a four-ticket Boo Bundle for $44. Parking is included with Jack O’Lantern Glow admission.
The pumpkins can be reused
The pumpkins featured in the display are described by the zoo as “forever pumpkins.” They are designed to withstand the month-long event and can be saved for future Jack O’Lantern Glow displays.
The zoo said real pumpkins would deteriorate too quickly during the event. Using reusable pumpkins also allows artists to preserve existing designs while creating new features for future years.
The Cincinnati Zoo’s third annual Jack O’Lantern Glow gives visitors another way to experience the zoo after dark while showcasing the work of local pumpkin artists.
What makes the 2026 Jack O’Lantern Glow different?
The Cincinnati Zoo is expanding Jack O’Lantern Glow for its third year with more pumpkins, additional themes and a redesigned event layout.
The 2026 display will feature more than 6,000 hand-carved illuminated pumpkins arranged across more than 20 themed areas. The zoo said the updated layout will make room for additional themes as visitors follow the half-mile trail.
The pumpkins include glowing animals, familiar faces and other detailed designs created by local artists.
Another change this year is expanded access to the zoo’s indoor habitats. The Reptile House and Night Hunters will remain open until 9 p.m. during Jack O’Lantern Glow.
The zoo is also offering a new four-ticket Boo Bundle for $44, giving families and groups another ticket option for the Halloween attraction.
FAQs
Is Jack O’Lantern Glow included with Cincinnati Zoo admission?
No. Jack O’Lantern Glow is a separately ticketed event and is not included with regular daytime admission or zoo membership. Members can receive discounted event tickets.
What else can visitors see during the event?
The Reptile House and Night Hunters will remain open until 9 p.m. during Jack O’Lantern Glow. Seasonal food, drinks and other activities will also be available.
Can I visit the zoo during the day and stay for Jack O’Lantern Glow?
Jack O’Lantern Glow is a separately ticketed event, so daytime zoo admission does not automatically include the nighttime experience. Visitors should check their tickets and plan accordingly.
